Browse Bible Study Resources

Daily Devotions

Psalms

Psalms 
Day 
Day 271

Psalm 86:2a "Preserve my life, for I am holy..."

Day 271 – Psalm 86

“Preserve my life, for I am holy…” Psalm 86:2a

AN IMPORTANT HISTORICAL NOTE

David ruled over Israel after the demise of King Saul. During his reign he had to contend with many perilous circumstances that saw his life threatened. There were the mighty Philistines who were constantly trying to subjugate Israel. There were the people who were loyal to the House of Saul and were bitterly against David who was anointed as King of Israel.

A PRAYER FOR PROTECTION

David had to be alert on all fronts. Politically and militarily, he had to be on his toes or risk being killed. He would do his part in keeping himself, but he knew that ultimately his life was in God’s hands.

“Preserve my life, for I am holy;
You are my God;
Save Your servant who trusts in You!”
Psalm 86:2

1. “Preserve my life”

a) This would be a natural thing to pray for.
b) David expressed his need for God to protect and preserve him.

2. Basis for this prayer for preservation

a) “For I am holy”
i) This seems puzzling at first reading.
ii) Was David pleading his personal holiness as the basis of his prayer for protection?
iii) The answer lies in understanding the meaning of the phrase “I am holy”.
iv) David was making reference to the fact that he was anointed and consecrated as king.
v) From the moment Samuel the prophet anointed David, he was “holy” to God; consecrated to fulfill his role as king of Israel.
b) “You are my God”
i) David’s appointment as king came from the LORD God Himself.
ii) God’s personal relationship with David would see Him respond to this prayer.
c) “Save Your servant who trusts in You”

David was most conscious of his real status before the Lord. He was no more than a servant of the Lord (2 Samuel 7). This prayer for preservation was offered most humbly and with genuine faith.