Praying Psalm 70 in turbulent times

During his lifetime, King David often found himself surrounded by hate and ill will. In physical, mental, and spiritual danger – as we are today – this beloved man of faith turned to God, seeking protection, deliverance, and peace. 

In the midst of his own troubles, however, David prayed for others who sought God’s help. Like Christ, King David prayed for us.

Psalm 70 – prayer of David

from King James Version 

Make haste, O God,

to deliver me;

make haste to help me,

O Lord.

Let them be ashamed

and confounded that

seek after my soul:

let them be turned

backward, and put

to confusion, that

desire my hurt. Let

them be turned back

for a reward of their

shame that say,

Aha, aha.

Let all those that seek thee

rejoice and be glad in thee:

and let such as love

thy salvation say continually,

Let God be magnified.

But I am poor and needy:

make haste unto me, O God:

thou art my help and my deliverer;

O Lord, make no tarrying.

From the Book of KJV Prayers - actual prayers from the King James Version of the Bible (KJV) collected by Mary Harwell Sayler, ©2019 

…

Psalm 70 – prayer of David paraphrased

Deliver me, God!

Lord, hurry to help me!

Let anyone who seeks my life

be disgraced and confounded.

Let those who wish me harm

be driven away in embarrassment.

Let everyone who seeks You

rejoice and be happy in You.

Let those who love

Your deliverance

keep saying, “God is great!”

But, God, I am in distress

and in need!

You are my help.

You are my deliverer.

Oh please, Lord, do not delay.

From the Book of Bible Prayers – actual prayers from God's Word collected from a variety of translations found on Bible Gateway and paraphrased into everyday English by Mary Harwell Sayler, ©2019

…