Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2542 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before.
In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’ll conclude our study of Psalm 40 by exploring verses 13 through 17 from the New Living Translation. These closing verses show us David in a moment of urgent prayer, seeking God’s help amid trouble, danger, and opposition.
In this passage, David demonstrates a remarkable blend of honesty, humility, and trust. As we reflect on these verses, we’ll discover how to bring our fears and struggles to God while remaining confident in His power to deliver and protect.
Let’s start by reading the passage together:
Psalm 40:13-17 (NLT)
13 Please, Lord, rescue me!
Come quickly, Lord, and help me.
14 May those who try to destroy me
be humiliated and put to shame.
May those who take delight in my trouble
be turned back in disgrace.
15 Let them be horrified by their shame,
for they said, “Aha! We’ve got him now!”
16 But may all who search for You
be filled with joy and gladness in You.
May those who love Your salvation
repeatedly shout, “The Lord is great!”
17 As for me, since I am poor and needy,
let the Lord keep me in His thoughts.
You are my helper and my savior.
O my God, do not delay.
David begins this section with an urgent plea: “Please, Lord, rescue me! Come quickly, Lord, and help me.” These words are simple yet profound, capturing the desperation of someone who knows their only hope lies in God. David doesn’t mince words—he gets straight to the point, asking for rescue and assistance with a sense of urgency.
This verse is a reminder that we can approach God directly in our moments of need. Whether our struggles are external threats or internal battles, God invites us to cry out to Him. David’s prayer shows that we don’t need to have polished words or lengthy explanations—what matters is the sincerity of our hearts.
Illustration:
Imagine a child who trips and falls, immediately crying out, “Daddy, help me!” The parent doesn’t pause to analyze the situation or wait for the child to explain—they rush to help because they love their child. Similarly, God is eager to come to our aid when we call on Him with childlike trust and urgency.
David’s prayer here is a request for justice. He’s not seeking personal revenge—he’s asking God to deal with his enemies in a way that upholds righteousness and truth. Those who seek to harm him and take...
