When he was in some deep distress, either from Saul, or by Absalom, or upon some other occasion.
David strengtheneth himself in prayer by the truth of his religion, Psa_86:1-4, and by God’s goodness and his readiness to hear, Psa_86:5-10; desireth the continuance of his grace, Psa_86:11-13. Complaining of his proud enemies, he entreateth for some token of his love, to their shame and confusion, Psa_86:14-17.
Forsaken and persecuted by men, and utterly unable to save myself, and therefore a very proper object for thy power and goodness to work upon.