by William Nicholson, 1862
 

"Plead my cause, O Lord!" Psalm 35:1

Man's extremity is God's opportunity. The Psalmist was frequently in deep distress, from which no human power could extricate him — then he prayed, "Plead my cause, O Lord!" Psalm 43:1; 119:154.

I. This prayer implies the existence of difficulty and distress. David was surrounded with enemies, and sometimes in afflictions. He had a cause to plead, which he committed to God.

Thus with all Christians. They have various troubles, in the endurance of which they need the help of God.

II. It is the prayer of one who distrusts all human help independent of God. "Plead you my cause, O Lord," for I cannot withstand these enemies. I cannot sustain these trials. I am weak, and sinful, and cannot save myself from Divine wrath — vain also is the help of man. Psalm 142:3-5.

III. The prayer implies a recognition of the wisdom, power, and love of God as the friend and advocate of his people. Hence it is said of him. Proverbs 22:23; 23:10, 11; Jeremiah 50:31; 51:36; Micah 7:9. If pleaded by him, the issue will be good.

IV. A firm belief that God's aid in pleading the cause of his people, can only be obtained through Christ the great Mediator — the advocate with the Father. He pleaded for his disciples when on earth, and be now pleads for them in Heaven, Hebrews 7:25; 1 John 2:1.

V. The prayer implies a committal of every care of distress, difficulty, or trial, to the management of God. Take your cause, you child of affliction, to him. Take your cause, you tempted one, to him, etc. etc. Go to his throne, and "Cast your burden upon the Lord for he will sustain you."

The believer is encouraged to commit his cause to God, by the numerous promises of God's assistance. "He is faithful who has promised."