Psalms 71:12
O God, be not far from me: O my God, make haste for my help.
Original Language Analysis
אֱ֝לֹהַ֗י
O God
H430
אֱ֝לֹהַ֗י
O God
Strong's:
H430
Word #:
1 of 7
gods in the ordinary sense; but specifically used (in the plural thus, especially with the article) of the supreme god; occasionally applied by way of
אַל
H408
אַל
Strong's:
H408
Word #:
2 of 7
not (the qualified negation, used as a deprecative); once (job 24:25) as a noun, nothing
תִּרְחַ֣ק
be not far
H7368
תִּרְחַ֣ק
be not far
Strong's:
H7368
Word #:
3 of 7
to widen (in any direction), i.e., (intransitively) recede or (transitively) remove (literally or figuratively, of place or relation)
מִמֶּ֑נִּי
H4480
מִמֶּ֑נִּי
Strong's:
H4480
Word #:
4 of 7
properly, a part of; hence (prepositionally), from or out of in many senses
Historical Context
David's cave experiences, surrounded by enemies, gave visceral understanding of needing God's near presence and quick intervention. Prayer wasn't theoretical but born of genuine danger.
Questions for Reflection
- How can you maintain urgent, persistent prayer without becoming demanding or presumptuous?
- What does God's nearness provide that differs from His omnipresence?
- How do you balance desperate petition with patient trust in God's perfect timing?
Analysis & Commentary
The urgent prayer 'O God, be not far from me' seeks divine presence and intervention. 'Make haste for my help' combines distance imagery (be near) with speed imagery (hurry). The repetition emphasizes desperation—not casual request but urgent plea. God's nearness and swift action are essential for deliverance. This models persistent, bold prayer that doesn't give up despite circumstances. Jesus taught similar persistence in the parable of the importunate widow (Luke 18:1-8).