The Treasury of David
by C.H. Spurgeon
EXPOSITION OF THE PSALMS
(Psalms 88 Verse 2)
EXPOSITION
Verse 2. Let my prayer come before thee. Admit it to an audience; let it speak with thee. Though it be my prayer, and therefore very imperfect, yet deny it not thy gracious consideration.
Incline thine ear unto my cry. It is not music save to the ear of mercy, yet be not vexed with its discord, though it be but a cry, for it is the most natural expression of my soul's anguish. When my heart speaks, let thine ear hear. There may be obstacles which impede the upward flight of our prayers -- let us entreat the Lord to remove them; and as there may also be offences which prevent the Lord from giving favourable regard to our requests -- let us implore him to put these out of the way. He who has prayed day and night cannot bear to lose all his labour. Only those who are indifferent in prayer will be indifferent about the issue of prayer.
EXPLANATORY NOTES AND QUAINT SAYINGS
Verse 2. Incline thine ear, etc. It is necessary that God should incline his ear unto our prayer, else it would be in vain to come before Him. The prodigal did not venture to present his prayer before the father ran and fell upon his neck and kissed him. For then he said, Luke 15:21, "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight", etc ... and so he obtained mercy. Esther did not present her prayer to Ahasuerus before he descended from his throne and inclined himself to her. Esther 5:2, etc. --Le Blanc.
HINTS FOR PASTORS AND LAYPERSONS
Verse 2. -- Prayer as an ambassador.
- An audience sought, or the benefit of access.
- Attention entreated, or the blessing of success.
- The Process explained, or prayer comes and God inclines.