Day 5

Life is not always easy. Faith in God does not always bring easy answers. Scripture does not hide this fact. Here, David joins many others in expressing his confusion and frustration to God (Psalm 73:2–3). Faced with danger, it seems to David that the Lord has forgotten him. David's question of "how long?" is more than just a question of time; it's also a plea for explanation. There is a sense of "why?" carried within these complaints.

Apparently, God's promise to make David king of Israel (1 Samuel 16:13) was growing faint in the face of persecution. David was encouraged when he beheld God's face, but now it seemed God had hidden His face. David expresses a similar note of concern in Psalm 22:11, where he prays: "Be not far from me, for trouble is near, and there is no one to help."

Believers may identify with David's feelings of abandonment. Trouble may tempt a believer to think God has abandoned them and no longer cares. However, the Lord will never forsake a believer, and He cares for him (Hebrews 13:5; 1 Peter 5:7). David's struggle will not lead him to reject God; he will respond to his fears with faith (Psalm 13:5–6).

This verse literally exposes David's sorrow and doubt. These are not uncommon emotions, it happens to us all the time. It’s the paradox of progress. The closer you are the farther you are going to feel. David is concerned that his enemy will claim the victory over him. Though David is confused and frustrated, he does not turn away from God, as the last verses show in Psalm 13:5–6. "But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me."

F.E.A.R. - False Evidence Appearing Real. Work and worship while you wait. God’s rejection is your protection. Feel it and believe it. Patience and Persistence is key. Life is a marathon and not a race. You got this. God got this. The best is yet to come. The paradox of progress will always be that the closer you are the farther you will feel. However, God’s timing is perfect.

Prayer of the Day: God, thank You for Your plan and purpose for my life. I ask that as I draw closer to You, my desires will begin to align with Your desires for me. Help me let go of anything that does not line up with You. I want Your divine will for me, Father. In Jesus’ name, Amen.