Intro: When we face problems and challenges in life, it can be helpful to talk things over with a trusted friend. Sometimes these conversations can put things into perspective for us. Our faith may need affirming and our feelings more than likely need guidance. In our passage today, David is struggling, so he decides he is going to talk things over with his Friend—the Lord Yahweh. Our passage is his prayer.
David has so many questions that need answers, yet he must remain patient because God is silent. By all appearances, evil has gained the upper hand and David wonders when God is going to stop the advancement of evil. As a result of God’s silence, David suffers with depression and despair; in his soul he feels abandoned. However, while his spirit waits for God to respond, David grows in his character and he draws closer to the destiny God has prepared for him. God uses even silence for the good of his beloved. May God continue to strengthen the souls of his children.
Psalm 13:3-6 (TPT) Prayer Turns Depression into Delight
1
I’m hurting, Lord—will you forget me forever?
How much longer, Lord?
Will you look the other way when I’m in need?
2
How much longer must I cling to this constant grief?
I’ve endured this shaking of my soul.
So how much longer will my enemy have the upper hand?
3
Take a good look at me, Yahweh, my God, and answer me!
Breathe your life into my spirit.
Bring light to my eyes in this pitch-black darkness
or I will sleep the sleep of death.
4
Don’t let my enemy proclaim, “I’ve prevailed over him.”
For all my adversaries will celebrate when I fall.
5
I have always trusted in your kindness, so answer me.
I will spin in a circle of joy
when your salvation lifts me up.
6
I will sing my song of joy to you, Yahweh,
for in all of this you have strengthened my soul.
My enemies say that I have no Savior,
but I know that I have one in you!
Prayer: Lord, thank you for this encouragement from David’s prayer, today. Breathe life into my spirit and help me to patiently trust your plan. I know you are leading me into good things. In Jesus’ name. Amen.