Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 25

This psalm of David is a mix of prayer for help, guidance, and forgiveness amid declaration of the LORD’s covenant faithfulness and mercy. It also instructs us about walking in the fear of the LORD.

1-3: A prayer for help from the LORD

4-7: A prayer for mercy and guidance

8-11: An affirmation of the LORD’s goodness

12-15: A portrait of those who fear the LORD

16-22: A plea for deliverance from distress

David speaks as one who knows that his distress is due (at least in part) to his sins. On the one hand, he desires divine help and rescue from his distress. On the other hand, he wants to be taught to live right before God. 

He desires to be that man whose ways are right before the LORD and who enjoys the protection and blessing of the LORD. Verses 12 to 14 paint the picture of that person who fears the LORD followed by an expression of singular focus on the LORD.

The psalm concludes with a desperate plea for grace, forgiveness, and deliverance from distress for David, and indeed for the whole house of Israel. The LORD is not only a great Deliverer, He is also a gracious King who instructs those who seek Him in the right way to live. May we seek the LORD and live. Amen.