A Prayer of David

Psalm 142 is titled 'A Contemplation of David,  A Prayer when he was in the cave.'  David calls this prayer a 'maskil' or a Psalm of instruction because of the lessons he had learned while in the cave that he desired to teach others.  The cave was probably Adullam cave, mentioned in 1 Samuel 22:1, and Psalms 34 and 57 are also associated with this period of David's life.  David prayed when he was in the cave and every time he faced oppression.   Charles Spurgeon says if David had prayed half as much when he was in the palace as he did when he was in caves and in distress, it would have been better for him.  While in the palace, David arose from his bed, looked down from the roof, and fell into temptation.  If he had been looking up to heaven, if his heart had been in communion with God, he might never have committed that great crime that profoundly stained his whole character!  

Like David, when we are hard-pressed on all sides, we dedicate ourselves to much prayer.  Pain and poverty drive us to our knees.  Sickness and sorrow make us seek the face of our Lord.  Times of need always drive us to His throne of Grace.  The question is, what do we do when we are healthy and happy; what do we do when life is a song and a breeze?  I believe we are very vulnerable to the temptations of the evil one during times of peace and prosperity!  When David was in the cave running from Saul, he had just 400 men with him.  Later, when David had become king over all of Israel, he was tempted to number his mighty men!  The human heart somehow thinks that the blessing we have is the fruit of our labor.  Instead of humbling himself before the God who had established him on the throne, David numbered his men!  Pride filled David's heart instead of gratitude.  And there lies our lesson today. 

My friend, when you enjoy success and recognition, remember that God has brought you to this position.  Give glory to God.  God will not share His glory with another.  Never allow pride to fill your heart.  Pride always goes before the fall!  The Bible says in 2 Samuel 22:28, "You will save the humble people; but Your eyes are on the haughty, that You may bring them down."

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