Psalm 31:9-16
“Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and body with grief. My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, and my bones grow weak. Because of all my enemies, I am the utter contempt of my neighbors and an object of dread to my closest friends - those who see me on the street flee from me. I am forgotten as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery. For I hear many whispering, “Terror on every side!” They conspire against me and plot to take my life. But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love.” Psalm 31:9-16 (NIV)
This particular section of Psalms, composed by David, can be divided into two parts. The first part is a series of woes and complaints of what he is experiencing in his life. The second part is full of praise and trust in the Lord. David struggled mercifully with both triumphs and tribulations in his life. He was chosen by God to be king. He famously fought and defeated Goliath, earning him fame as a courageous man. He committed adultery with Bathsheba and arranged the death of her husband. His son rebelled against him, sending him into exile from Jerusalem. His desires to build a temple for God were denied because of the sins he committed during his reign.The verse expresses poetically how desperate and alone David felt. His body is weak with sorrow, he has made enemies and lost supporters, he is broken and full of grief.
Then we see how he throws his hands to the heavens and expresses his trust in the Lord that He will get him through tough times. David trusted that God would provide strength to him during his battle with Goliath. He showed a willingness to wait on God’s timing when faced with the opportunity to take power from King Saul. David acknowledged his sins and sought forgiveness from God. David served God at various times in his life; as a shepherd boy, a warrior and a king.
As you think about your life, many instances of throwing up your hands to God come to mind. We have all faced adversity and troubling life experiences. We can sit and wallow in our sadness and grief. Or we can put our trust in God that He knows what is best for us. He will provide comfort and security. We have to remember that we are not in charge and we must trust in His guidance.
Question for Reflection:
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When was the last time that you “gave it up to God”? How did it turn out for you?
Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank you for giving me the peace in knowing that I can turn to you during times of both triumph and trials. I trust that you know best what should happen in my life and so I raise my hands to the heavens in search of comfort and help. Thank you for being that place of solitude for us all. I know you know how best our lives should go. I trust in you, Lord and am grateful for your guidance. Amen.
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