Psalm 3

Trust in God under Adversity

Psalm 3 is a blend of praise and lament.  Many of us alternate between the conflicting feelings of hope and despair.  When you're having doubts in yourself, or dealing with issues and you're concerned about the outcome, Psalm 3 is a good prayer to pray to the Lord.  "How many are my foes!" (v1)  The Psalmist was battling tens of thousands, and your problems (foes) may seem just as overwhelming.  But he says, "I cry out to the Lord, and he answers me." (v4)  

This Psalm spoke to me because in my gratitude for the many blessings He has bestowed on me, I have proclaimed that all that I do, all that I am, will be for His glory forevermore. "But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head." (v4)  

I am also reminded that God promises us repeatedly, throughout Scripture:  

"Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord has risen upon you.  For behold, darkness will cover the earth and deep darkness the peoples; but the Lord will rise upon you and His glory will appear upon you." (Isaiah 60:1-2)  

"For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope." (Jeremiah 29:11) 

"I can do all things through him who strengthens me." (Philippians 4:13)  

Yes, we can be assured that God is always there.  It may be scary; we may feel we are not equipped for the challenge; but trust in Him always.  His plan is infinitely better than our little minds can fathom.  He CAN work miracles.  He conquered death so that we may have life.  So He can do anything!  

Finally, my prayer FOR YOU is found in verse 8:

"Deliverance belongs to the Lord; may your blessing be on your people!"  

Photo taken August 21, 2015

 Psalm 3

A Psalm of David, when he fled from his son Absalom.  

O Lord, how many are my foes!  Many are rising against me; many are saying to me, "There is no help for you in God." 

But you, O Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head. 

I cry aloud to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy hill.  I lie down and sleep; I wake again, for the Lord sustains me. I am not afraid of ten thousands of people who have set themselves against me all around.

Rise up, O Lord!  Deliver me, O my God! 
For you strike all my enemies on the cheek; you break the teeth of the wicked.

Deliverance belongs to the Lord; may your blessing be on your people!