Recap: The whole nation is suffering, presumably as a punishment for its sins. However, the Psalmist, who feels innocent, is perplexed by his personal suffering. This particular psalm is unique because it seeks a reason for the nation's disaster that goes beyond their own guilt. The Psalmist finds an answer, declaring: "We are being killed for your sake," which suggests their distress is part of a larger, worldwide battle against God and his chosen King. The New Testament later uses this concept to explain why the Church is persecuted, asserting that it ultimately will be victorious.
| 44:25 | For our soul is bowed down to the dust; | |
| Our body clings to the ground. |
This is the imagery of a prayer. There are many posters in prayer: standing and kneeling are very common posture in the scripture. However, falling prostrate on the ground shows the humility of the person praying and the intensity of prayer. This posture reminds us of the prayer of Jesus in the garden of Gethsemane where it say that he fell on his face and prayed (Mat 26:39). It is good model for us to prayer especially when things seems gloomy.
| 44:26 | Arise for our help, | |
| And redeem us for Your mercies’ sake. |
Arise: It is invoking God to help his people by redeeming from the state of humiliation. Mercies' sake: The reason for God to act is not in the goodness of his people. Our actions will attract only the wrath of God. Hence, one should always be reminded of his unworthiness while approaching God in prayer. Such a prayer honors God and will be answered.
Prayer: My Father who is in heaven, you are a God who answers our prayer when approached in brokenness. Lord, I pray that you would help me to come to you very often in such intense prayer knowing that You are the source of all blessing. Amen.