Spurgeon: June AM
* 06/17/AM
"Help, Lord."
--Psalm 12:1
The prayer itself is remarkable , for it is short , but
seasonable, sententious , and suggestive . David mourned the
fewness of faithful men, and therefore lifted up his heart in
supplication--when the creature failed, he flew to the Creator.
He evidently felt his own weakness, or he would not have cried
for help; but at the same time he intended honestly to exert
himself for the cause of truth, for the word "help" is
inapplicable where we ourselves do nothing. There is much of
directness, clearness of perception , and distinctness of
utterance in this petition of two words; much more, indeed,
than in the long rambling outpourings of certain professors. The
Psalmist runs straight-forward to his God, with a
well-considered prayer; he knows what he is seeking, and where
to seek it. Lord, teach us to pray in the same blessed manner.
The occasions for the use of this prayer are frequent . In
providential afflictions how suitable it is for tried believers
who find all helpers failing them. Students, in doctrinal
difficulties , may often obtain aid by lifting up this cry of
"Help, Lord," to the Holy Spirit, the great Teacher. Spiritual
warriors in inward conflicts may send to the throne for
reinforcements, and this will be a model for their request.
Workers in heavenly labour may thus obtain grace in time of
need. Seeking sinners, in doubts and alarms , may offer up the
same weighty supplication; in fact, in all these cases, times,
and places, this will serve the turn of needy souls. "Help,
Lord," will suit us living and dying, suffering or labouring,
rejoicing or sorrowing. In Him our help is found, let us not be
slack to cry to Him.
The answer to the prayer is certain , if it be sincerely
offered through Jesus. The Lord's character assures us that He
will not leave His people; His relationship as Father and
Husband guarantee us His aid; His gift of Jesus is a pledge of
every good thing; and His sure promise stands, "Fear not, I WILL
HELP THEE."