“Set me free from my prison” (Psalm 142:7).
The heading given to this psalm by the ancient scribes invites us to think of David, falsely accused, on the run, hiding in a cave (1 Sam. 22:1).
We might also think of Paul in Ephesus (and quite possibly in prison), “under great pressure,” feeling he had received “a sentence of death,” forced to rely on “God who raises the dead” (2 Cor 1:8-11).
Our prisons may be literal, economic or a depressive state of mind in which it seems that everyone is against us and no one cares. If that is what we face or feel, we need to see that the psalmist did not stay in prison. He reached a point where he was able to declare: “You are … my portion” (v 5).
These words recall the tradition that the Levites who served the tabernacle received no share when the land was divided (Num 18:20). Instead God said to them, “I am your portion.” How
does the psalmist move-
– from “prison” to “portion”?
Through this prayer!
If we read the psalm 142 in three sections, vs. 1-3a, 3b-5 and 6,7:
– we will notice that each section begins with a description of the psalmist’s plight and ends with an expression of confidence! This surely is what it means to wrestle in prayer. Pouring out complaint gives way to the realization that God knows my way. The feeling that no
one cares gives way to the conviction that God is both refuge and portion. Desperate need is replaced by the expectation of deliverance!
Is there any “prison” from which you need to be released?
– A debt, disease, depression, den of lions, demonic habit or an actual prison?
If so –
Use this psalm 147 as a model for “wrestling” with God in prayer!
May the Lord set you free from that prison! And grant you His glorious freedom and portion!! Any you will be filled with His praises!!!
(PA)