Rethinking our prayers for Help

Psalm 79.

This song from Asaph is very similar to his Psalm 74.  Jerusalem had been attacked, the temple defiled, some of those who served there were killed and left unburied.  The enemies scoffed at Israel’s belief in God because He did not protect them.

Why did God allow this to happen?

Asaph felt that the cause was due to sin.  Their disobedience to God had brought His anger against them and this invasion was their penalty.  The result was "we are brought very low."  Humility before God is the starting point of rebuilding a relationship with Him.  It is the required attitude of prayer.

Notice how he appealed to the Lord.

1. Help us. (v.9a)

Why?  "For the glory of your name."  These were God's people.  The temple was the sole place of sacrificial worship of God.  If the LORD would step in and help them, the restoration would bring Him honor by all.

2. Deliver us and atone for our sins. (v.9b)

Why?  "For your name's sake!"  This defeat was not only against them but the very person and power of God.  The LORD's reputation had been totally disregarded and disrespected.

Asaph's question was "why should the nations say, "Where is their God?"

If God answered our prayers for help, who would get the credit?  How would God be glorified?