Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

David praised God’s faithfulness and love amid troubles.

What does it mean?

It is uncertain exactly when David wrote this psalm, but his circumstances are clear. He was surrounded by enemies and away from Jerusalem in a land filled with false gods. Yet even amid trouble, David’s spiritual life went uninterrupted. God’s unwavering love in such a difficult time gave him the strength and encouragement to worship God with every ounce of his being. His circumstances had not derailed God’s purpose for his life but had given him greater cause to praise the God of Israel to pagan kings. David’s increased troubles served to amplify his understanding of God’s faithfulness, mercy, holiness, and love.

How should I respond?

Life's troubles are difficult; however, they shouldn’t impact you negatively. If anything, the hurdles you face give you a greater opportunity to understand the character of God. Personally, experiencing God’s hand on your life is quite different from just reading about His grace and mercy or listening to friends’ stories of His faithfulness. In what troubling circumstance do you find yourself today? Have you allowed it to interrupt your worship or walk with the Lord? What you need is a paradigm shift. Stop looking at the negative and watch for God’s loving, faithful hand.