Psalms 71:12

12 O God, be not far from me, O my God, for my help make haste.

Psalms 71:12 Meaning and Commentary

Psalms 71:12

O God, be not far from me
God is everywhere, at hand and afar off, with regard to his being, power, and providence; his glorious presence is in heaven, his gracious presence is with his people; but, when he hides his face, he seems to be at a distance; and this they cannot bear, and therefore deprecate it; see ( Psalms 10:1 ) ;

O my God, make haste for my help;
he knew that his help was in God, and that there was none for him elsewhere; and that he could help him when none else could, and was a present help in time of trouble; and it being such a time with him, and his case desperate, he desires the Lord that he would make haste; and he addresses him as his own God, the consideration of which encouraged his faith and hope in him, and carried in it an argument to help him; see ( Psalms 119:94 ) .

Psalms 71:12 In-Context

10 For mine enemies have spoken against me, And those watching my soul have taken counsel together,

11 Saying, `God hath forsaken him, Pursue and catch him, for there is no deliverer.'

12 O God, be not far from me, O my God, for my help make haste.

13 They are ashamed, they are consumed, Who are opposing my soul, They are covered [with] reproach and blushing, Who are seeking my evil,

14 And I continually do wait with hope, And have added unto all Thy praise.