224. PSA 61:2. THE SAINT’S ASYLUM IN DISTRESS

Psa_61:2. The Saint’s Asylum in Distress

"When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock which is higher than I."’97Psa_61:2.

It is probable that this psalm was composed when David was in exile, through the unnatural rebellion of Absalom, his son. The psalm commences with sorrow and prayer, but, like many others, ends with joy and thanksgiving.

1. Notice the Distress supposed.

"When my heart is overwhelmed."

This world is a scene of sorrow’97a dreary wilderness, &c. Man is born to trouble, &c. Believers must pass through much tribulation, &c.

Heart may be overwhelmed,

1. By distressing temptations.

We read of the wiles of the devil, fiery darts, &c. He desired to sift Peter, &c. Roaring lion. Sometimes comes in upon the soul as a flood’97suggests horrid temptations, as he did to Christ. Mat_4:1-11.

2. By providential visitations.

Cross providences, disappointments, changes, adversities, afflictions, bereavements, forsaken of friends, &c.

3. By inward fears and depressions.

Fears as to our safety; doubts respecting our acceptance; fears of enemies, especially death, &c.

Consider,

II. The Asylum referred to

"The rock higher than I."

The Lord Jesus is this rock. He is,

1. A rock of supplies.

Typified by the smitten rock, which fielded such copious streams in the desert. That rock, says the apostle, was Christ.

2. He is a prospective rock.

Elevated on him we behold the Divine glory. And life and immortality are brought to light, &c. See Exo_33:21.

3. He is a shadowy rock.

In him we are sheltered from present condemnation, and from the wrath to come Isa_32:2.

4. He is our foundation rock.

The soul’s salvation rests upon him. Isa_28:16; 1Co_3:11.

5. He is a high and lofty rock.

"Higher than I;" higher than man generally; higher than prophets, priests, &c. higher than angels. He is the "Most High." Name above every name; throne above throne, &c. In all things he hath the preeminence.

Observe

III. The Prayer presented.

"Lead me to the rock," &c.

This prayer indicates,

1. Conscious insufficiency.

We are weak and helpless; cannot guide, nor keep ourselves. The Lord must lead us always, even unto death, &c.

2. Confidence in Christ’s all-sufficiency.

"He is higher than I." His knowledge infinite, his power almighty’97goodness boundless He cannot change, nor be confounded, nor be overcome.

3. Earnest desire to feel our connection with Christ.

Lead me to it’97let me feel I am upon it’97let me know my saving interest in him I wish to know that I do now believe, &c.

Application

How suited this prayer,

1. To the inquiring penitent 2. To the timid saint,

3. To the aged Christian,

4. To the dying believer.

Autor: JABEZ BURNS