PROTECTION FROM THE WICKED

Psa_5:1-12



The ordering of prayer is very necessary, Gen_22:9. Our Lord’s prayer should be our model. Often our words need to be supplemented by our meditations; that is, we must make room for the “groanings which cannot be uttered,” but which the Spirit understands, Rom_8:26-27. Distinct from either of these is the urgent ejaculation for aid which is here described as the voice of my cry, Psa_5:2. As soon as we awake, let us speak to God. We must keep watch for the answer, Psa_5:3, r.v. How many answers we miss, because we get tired of waiting for the return of our ships!

Note the seven expressions for the ungodly, Psa_5:4-7. As for me-the chief of sinners, but see 1Co_15:10. The Jew in prayer turned toward the Temple, Psa_5:7; Dan_6:10. Here the Tabernacle, which preceded it, stood for the same, 1Sa_1:9. We look to the Most Holy Place, whither Jesus has entered, Heb_10:19.

The ungodly are specially characterized by sins of speech, Psa_5:9. Wicked men are like sepulchers, which exhale pestilential odors. Their doom is inevitable. Notice the combination of trust, love, and joy, Psa_5:11.