2005-12-11 - How Long, O Lord?

Psalm 13, Part 3

It appears David was suffering from serious depression. He demanded a response from God. He expresses concern over the likelihood of his continued survival. Was he considering suicide, or was he afraid that Saul would succeed in his efforts to kill him? We don't know from the context.

David knew one thing for sure; he didn't want his enemies to have the victory over him. He didn't want his end to go to the credit of those that persecuted him. All he wanted was an answer from God. He seemed to be expressing some anger here. Nevertheless, he'd tried to be obedient. He'd sought God's will. But, no matter how much he called out, there was no answer from God, or at least so it seemed.

Once again, it is worth noting that as David was persecuted, his enemies would also have been attacking God. It was God who had chosen David to be king. So, if David died, then God's will would have been defeated.

"So he (Samuel) asked Jesse, `Are these all the sons you have?' `There is still the youngest,' Jesse answered, `but he is tending the sheep.' Samuel said, `Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.' So he sent and had him brought in. He was ruddy, with a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, `Rise and anoint him; he is the one.' So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on, the Spirit of the Lord came upon David in power" (1 Samuel 16:11-13).

Verse 5: Now, as we have frequently see with David, first he focused on his frustration. Then as a response to that frustration, he took his pain to the Lord. As a result, his attention shifted from himself to God. When his perspective changed, his attitude also changed. It was as if God bent down and pulled him out of the water, allowing him to once again walk on the waves. The problems were still there, but David saw the joy and hope that come from trust and confidence in the Lord.

Verse 6: What was the basis of David's confidence? It was the unfailing love of God. David could trust, because God was the source of his salvation. It was God's salvation that was the source of his joy. Consequently, he was lifted from his depression. His heart rose into the heavenlies. From it poured the songs of praise to the Lord, for God was good to him.

Comments or Questions?
Geoff

pastor@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org