Psalm 143: ⁹ Save me, O Lord, from my enemies; I have fled to you for refuge. ¹⁰ Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Let your good spirit lead me on a level path. ¹¹ For your name’s sake, O Lord, preserve my life. In your righteousness bring me out of trouble. ¹² In your steadfast love cut off my enemies, and destroy all my adversaries, for I am your servant. 

King David was the writer of this psalm. He’s obviously felt threatened and called on the God the Father to rescue him. I particularly noticed v.11 “For your name’s sake, O Lord, preserve my life.” It’s a reflection of a covenant relationship David and the people of Israel had with God. As such they shared an identity, not unlike a family of blood might have today. God and Israel were linked. If Israel were humiliated, God would be humiliated. If Israel prevailed, God would prevail. David often leaned on this dynamic of covenant relationship when his back was against the wall.

Today we Christians enjoy a covenant relationship with God through Jesus Christ. Like David, when our backs are against the wall, we can call on the name of the Lord. Where do you need the Lord to intervene on your behalf? Where are you struggling? Where are you losing hope? Pray with me. Lord, hear our prayers when we are in need, for we are your children through Jesus. Thank you for your faithfulness in all things. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.