MEDITATIONS IN THE PSALMS [An outline of the Psalm, A good devotional study when using the scriptures indicated] Psalm 27:7-14 The pendulum of spirituality, “Hear O Lord when I cry with my voice;” David swings from the ‘praise’ of v6, to prayer and supplication of v7. From an assurance of His presence in v5 to an apprehension of it in v9; modern psychology would diagnose it as ‘mood swings.’ But not so! This is true spirituality. The true believer’s mouth is filled with a mixture of praise and prayer, his life is a life of joy and sorrow, his heart is renewed in assurance, yet often clouded with doubt. The voice in v6 was tuned with music, here in v7 with crying. Observe his anxiety to be heard. This is far different from the Pharisee, a Pharisee cares not for God’s hearing him, his concern is for man’s hearing; or for how he charms himself with his devotions, Luke 18:9. “They love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say to you, they have their reward” (Matt.6:5). To the genuine believer the Lord’s ear is all that matters, “When I cry with my voice.” The voice may be profitable in prayer, but not always necessary. Else how could we pray “without ceasing?” I believe the subconsciousness of true believers entertain God constantly. “Have mercy also upon me, and answer me.” ‘Mercy’ the hope of sinners, and refuge of saints; if I am ever heard, it’s for His mercy’s sake which He shows for Jesus’ sake. The believer’s warrant for seeking the Lord in prayer is His Word, “When You said, ‘Seek My face;’” the only warrant for faith. The warrant of a person coming to Christ is not repentance, a sense of sin and remorse for it, or a feeling of need, but the Word of God! You may come because God bids you come! You may believe because God commands you to! The demand is plural, “seek ye”, all saints. We turn it to singular when we make it a personal application, “Thy face Lord, will I seek.” “When Thou said, my heart said.” Oh for more holy readiness! V9, an ill that has been eternally cured; “Hide not Thy face;” He won’t; “put not Thy servant away;” He can’t. My sin may come between my Lord and me and cloud my view of Him, but behind that dark cloud shines His sympathetic face. Simple confession brings the beam of His favor through. Reflection is the best cure for present doubt, “Thou hast been my help, O God of my salvation.” My saving has been of You, my saving is of You, my saving will be of You, 2Cor.1:8-10. V10, these relations are the last to let us down, but if they do we have a Father who never forgets us, “The Lord will take me up” elevate me above my enemies. V11, the end of spiritual prayer; we never pray spiritually when we desire to be indulged in our own way, “teach me Thy way,” a humble sense of personal ignorance expressed by a teachable spirit. “Lead me,” help is sought as well as direction. He has given us a map (His Word) to show us the way, and a guide (His Spirit) to assist us on our journey. V12, he concludes as our Lord teaches us in the model prayer. V13, a common infirmity, faintness of heart; but remember, even he who slew Goliath was subject to its attacks. ~~Terry Worthan
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