This psalm is a prayer in distress having reached the end of the line, no more
reserve or resources vs 3-4. Written by David, God’s past faithfulness encourages him
to call on the Lord to help against present enemies, v 1-6. In a desperate situation one
refuge remains: God Himself vs 5-12. The Lord will teach me, deliver me, lead me, bring
me out of trouble.
Doubtless we can identify with these words in many of our caretaking situations
when our enemies might be disappointment, frustration, annoyance, anger, irritation,
resentment, and more. The psalms bring us comfort for the words contained are for
every mood we are in and can be prayed at any time. Of course, our encouragement
can come from many readings in the Bible. For instance, 2 Chronicles 15; 7, “But as for
you, be strong and do not slack off, for there shall be a reward for what you do.”
If God has called us to this path, then His grace and love carries us each day.
That is not to say it is easy, for there are many painful moments and uncertainties and
ultimately losses. Our anger and resentment can be turned to God and God can take it.
Be honest about how you feel and pour out those feelings, so God can heal them. In the
past, I was ashamed of many of my feelings and grateful that God accepted me as I
was, not as I strived to be and often failed at. I believe God values honesty above all,
for He knows all about us anyway. (Psalm 139.)
It has been my experience that anger can turn to resentment and resentment to
bitterness, and this can bind us further. It is in our surrender that God can work. In
humanness, we hold on, usually to our detriment, longer than necessary, and are
always invited to let go. Perhaps it is fear that causes this. Here are some Scriptures to
help.
Deuteronomy 31:8, “It is the Lord who goes before you: He will be with you and
will never fail you or forsake you. So do not fear or be dismayed.” Isaiah 40:29-31, “He
gives power to the faint, abundant strength to the weak. Though young people faint and
grow weary, and youths stagger and fall, they that hope in the Lord will renew their
strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not
grow faint.” Isaiah 41:10, “Do not fear; I am with you; do not be anxious; I am Your God.
I will strengthen you; I will help you, I will uphold you with My victorious right hand.”
We are invited to lean on God’s word, trusting the refuge and hope God provides
for us each moment, recognizing God’s love carries us and nothing is impossible with
God! (Luke 1:37)
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