Why we sometimes don't get help

When we're in trouble, we often expect immediate help. We claim a promise somewhere in the Bible and we're disappointed when we don't hear an answer. 
Reading the Psalms I realized there is sometimes more to getting help than just calling God when necessary.

In Psalm 86, David is in big trouble. Interestingly he presents his request quite late, in Verse 14. ("Insolent people rise up against me!"). So what's he saying in the first 13 Verses?

1.) David knew and praised God
I think knowing the One behind a promise is way more important than knowing the promise itself. If a stranger comes to you and promises you a million dollar, you probably don't believe him. If a close friend who never let you down, promises to help or pray for you, you know that he will do just that.

"O Lord, you are so good, so ready to forgive, so full of unfailing love for all who ask for your help."(V.5)

"No pagan God is like you, O Lord. Non can do what you do. (V.8) [...] For you are great and perform wonderful deeds. You alone are God."(V.10)

David knew God's power, his grace and his uniqueness. He knew that such a God is also able to help him.
He also praises him through his trouble, because he knew that at the end of the day that's what He deserves and that's what we were made for.

2.) David was devoted to God
"I am devoted to you. Save me, for I serve and trust you. You are my God."(V.1-2)
"Give me happiness, O Lord, for I give myself to you." (V.4)

Being committed to someone whom you ask for help makes getting help more likely. Of course you can't "earn" God's help, but most promises in the Bible are connected with a condition (like obedience, love etc.). David wanted to be taught God's ways - his overall desire was to honor him with his life (V.11). I'm sure God is happy to help someone with that attitude!

3.) David prayed with confidence
"I will call to you whenever I'm in trouble, and you will answer me". (V.7) "Then those hating me will be put to shame, for you, O Lord, help and comfort me." (V.17)
I can't help but notice that David didn't just pray a quick prayer, he really expected God's help and power! 

Let's not use God as a help machine for our problems, but rather get to know Him, praise Him, live for Him and our prayer life and our way (or better His way) of dealing with problems will change as well! 

Created about 1 year ago