Whenever we pray, it is fitting to do as David does, to pause and glorify God for his incomparability. Not only is the Lord worthy of this praise, but it also brings us much encouragement. It’s a powerful reminder that we’re not pleading with some run-of-the-mill God, or venting our pain into a disconnected microphone. Rather, such praise reminds us that today too, we’re in the presence of an Almighty God.

Your helper of choice should be well-suited for the task, whether it’s brute strength for getting a sofa out of the basement, or expertise for doing your tax return. Not just anyone can do these things.

When David was in trouble in Psalm 86, he knew exactly where to look. That is why running throughout his prayer there is a strong current of confidence: the LORD God will certainly hear his prayer, and he will also do something about it!

Praying to God in verse 1, “Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me,” David knows that his prayer won’t bounce off the ceiling. He knows it will ascend directly to the heavenly throne room, where the LORD will hear and respond.

How can David be so sure?

This is just a little of who God is:

“You are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness” (v. 15).

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