Once again in today’s psalm readings, we see David crying out to the LORD in his distress. As these two psalms relate directly to what our 1 Samuel reading from yesterday, it helps put them in perspective to what David was experiencing.
I love the Book of Psalms. I have learned that I don’t have to be fleeing a rival king or living in exile in order to gain insight, wisdom and comfort from them. There was a time recently that I went through a very deep valley in my life – an extended time of feeling very sad, alone, defeated. Reading the psalms was where I was constantly reminded of God’s goodness, faithfulness, steadfast love and sovereignty. It is where I was reminded of his constant care for those whom he loves. I was reminded that he is my rock and my refuge (18:2), my shelter (91:1), my strength (46:1) my fortress (18:2); that his steadfast love endures forever (118:29); that in my distress he answers me (118:5); he knows every tear of mine and they are kept by him (56:8); and he is my hope even when my soul is cast down (42:11). And many, many more.
Psalms written thousands of years ago, yet so very relevant for all believers today. While the circumstances of the writers, such as David, were different – God’s word is eternal, alive and all-encompassing. They are great encouragement to our hearts and provide comfort and hope in times of distress. It also reminds us, when we take into account what David was going through when he wrote many of his psalms – that God has purpose in all things. And that is a truth that I come back to again and again because it is a source of great comfort and strength.
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