Psalm 109:21 –
But deal well with me, O Sovereign LORD, for the sake of your own reputation! Rescue me because you are so faithful and good.
For some reason Fontella Bass’ “Rescue Me” is running through my brain after reading this verse. Other than the title it really doesn’t have any significance, just like the song.
Anyway, this chapter is divided into the woes David is going through with what his accusers are saying and the hope he has in God to rescue him. You read the first part of this chapter and it’s hard to imagine King David in such a mess, but remember he had to run from his enemies and hide in caves. Kind of like Saddam Hussein went from living in palaces to being captured in a small hole in the ground.
There is nothing that says you can’t have it all and lose it in a second. No many times God pulls the rug out not to anger us, but to humble us. Many times we just step in “it” ourselves and mess things up without God’s help. Interestingly both appear to happen to David.
I read this verse like the concept, but am not sure how I like the way David words it. To a point the last part of the first sentence is almost arrogant that God needs David to save His reputation. At the same time when God obviously walked with David and used him to show His power, then yes I can understand this prayer. I think for me praying this I would humbly ask God to use me to help restore His reputation.
The thing I like here is David is persistent even in a very desperate situation. He never gives up on the promises of God and continues to boldly ask for His help. Got to remember through David is where Jesus comes from, so he has favor with God. David rests on the fact that even though he is in misery at that time, God is faithful and will rescue him. We must draw on David’s faith when times seem bad and make the best of them!! Love God and all will be well … may not be perfect, but we cannot have that in this world anyway!