Dealing With Temptation
Every trial that believers go through includes both a opportunity to trust God and a temptation to sin. When believers are under great stress from external forces there is a danger to give in to temptation. David records his evening prayer to encourage other believers by giving them countermeasures against temptation.
When faced with the temptation to sin the first countermeasure is Urgent Prayer (1-2). David’s situation is urgent, and asks God to hear his prayer and act quickly (1). David knows that he needs God’s help to continue to be faithful. He asks God for grace to help guard his mouth and control his tongue during this trial that he is going through (2-3).
The second countermeasure to temptation is Inner Purity (4). David asks God for help in the struggle against the sinful desires of his heart. He knows the battle always begins in the heart with the will and the affections (Jas 1:14). David needs help to avoid the evil deeds of twisted men and their luxuries (4).
The third countermeasure to temptation is Accountability (5). David prays that fellow believers would intervene when they see him tempted they would be willing to step in and help. These people serve to reprove him lest he give in. This accountability is soothing to his soul, like oil upon his head.
The final countermeasure is a Focus on God (6-8). David prays that God will execute justice upon the wicked. He does not dwell in sinful anger or seek revenge, but entrusts himself to God, his refuge, who will bring justice and vindication (7-8). He keeps his focus on God in the midst of his trial and knows that God will protect him and give him the strength to endure (9-10) (1 Cor 10:13).