How to Be Grateful When Life Is HardSample

We don’t typically experience joy out of the blue. The Bible connects joy and thanksgiving, and Psalm 9 is one passage where we may see this. Despite intimidating enemies and ongoing trials, David chooses thanksgiving. He chooses the rest and gladness offered in gratitude rather than the stress and fear that comes with worry. His foes are many and mighty, but his God is bigger and more powerful than anything He can face.

The first two verses link giving thanks with God’s attributes and acts. These initial verses frame Psalm 9, so we read everything in this prayer song through the lens of thanksgiving. David models for us a posture that receives blessings but also a posture that trusts and rests in trials.

In this psalm, prayer and praise interweave throughout as David bounces between his troubles and afflictions (9:9, 12). But through it all, his one constant is gratefulness for God’s faithfulness. Fear and anxiety are undoubtedly present as David mentions his enemies and attackers. With the possibility of defeat or death, he’s tempted by doubts about God and assaulted with questions about how this might turn out.

But what do you see most in verses 3–14? David’s focus turns to God. He recounts God’s wonderful deeds in his life and recalls the many times God proved Himself in the past. This isn’t David’s first rodeo. The enemy has looked him in the face before, and each time God came through for him.

God is faithful. He’s powerful. And He always makes good on His promises to us.

David’s psalm teaches us that thanksgiving isn’t solely about recounting those deeds but about reorienting our hearts and life around God in worship. Recounting deeds in gratitude leads to exulting in God, being glad in God, singing praise to God, trusting Him, seeking after Him, telling others about Him, and rejoicing in Him.

The tone of the Psalm focuses on God’s care, protection, and defense of His people who are oppressed, weak, and in trouble. It’s a reminder we can give thanks in all seasons and circumstances. The Psalmist isn’t sitting in his castle drinking coffee, enjoying the sunshine, and feeling on top of the world when he writes. He’s writing in heaviness, feeling the weight of attacks against him. He’s crying out for mercy, deliverance, justice, and help in oppression. Despite this, he thanks God for who He is, what He has done, and what David believes He will do again.

Wherever this Psalm finds you today, you can turn to God with both your pleas for protection and praises of thanksgiving. Recount God’s deeds and praises. Recall who God is: a defender, a warrior on our behalf, a king, a stronghold, a refuge or haven, and a gracious deliverer (9:13). Drown out restless thoughts by replaying the memories of His grace and faithfulness.

Rest in Him. Rejoice in Him, and let gratitude lead you to gladness.