Psalms 86:1-10

1. A request for protection 86:1-10

David appealed to God for preservation as a dependent, needy believer who sought to walk in trust and obedience with his God. He viewed God’s granting of his request as based on His grace, not something God owed him. He looked forward to rejoicing when the answer came.

"Hope begins with submitting oneself fully to the protection of God." [Note: VanGemeren, p. 557.]

David’s attitude of humility comes through in the terms he used in addressing God in this psalm. Seven times he called God his Lord or Master (Heb. adonay), a title that stresses His sovereignty over David (Psalms 86:3-5; Psalms 86:8-9; Psalms 86:12; Psalms 86:15). This Hebrew title appears as "Lord" in most English translations whereas "Yahweh" translates as "LORD."

The psalmist was sure God would respond to his prayer (Psalms 86:7). The basis of his confidence was the fact that Yahweh is the only God and that He does great things.