Psalm 13

Some Christians in their hyper-piety are scandalized at the thought of questioning God.  But the God of the Bible invites us into conversations where we do ask questions, and we are not upbraided because of them.  This is one of those places.  The questions are very blunt, the emotions are very raw, and the danger is very real to David as he is fleeing for his life from King Saul.

I have met many Christians throughout the years that actually turn away in anger and condemnation when I express my questions about God and the walk of faith.  I am so glad that the Psalmist does no hold back in his questions and his lamentations.  “How long O, Lord?  How long will you forget me?  How long will you remain absent?”  I suspect that the reason that some believers cannot hear these questions is because they have buried such questions in their own souls.

In these brief 6 verses of Psalm 13, we are carried though life-shattering questions, terrifying enemies, and then the dedication of David as he realizes the nature and character of his God.  That is what we rely on, God’s steadfast love.  We see the world through his love, and not his love through our immediate situation.

Often our emotions are shaped by our perspectives.  Looking at a problem situation and seeing only our limits and lack, then we are prone to panic.  Looking at a problem through the perspective of God’s unfailing love, promises, and faithfulness, we gain a strength to face the situation head-on, not denying the problems, but realizing that we are truly not alone as we deal with even the most difficult parts of life.

Pastor Greg