As we read the psalms of David and from those he trained in worship, we discover that David often begins with words explaining the frustrations of his current life condition with rhetorical questions of God. David uses these questions to provoke an answer from God, to persuade God, or emphasize what he would like for God to do, even though David knows God’s obvious answer will be for his best not David’s will—God’s will.

It seems David must ask the questions like “how long, Lord God” or “when will you get me out this trouble with my enemies” out loud to God, for this is David’s way of settling his troubled heart, mind, and soul with what he knows of God.  That’s why there is a rough, honest beginning but then David takes a turn in the middle of his “songs” and recalls the greatest of God, building to glorious endings giving God praise such as;  “God, you are so good to me.”  “God, you answer all my prayers.” “Thank you for all you are to me.”  “You know me and you help me.”

The comfort and encouragement we receive from David’s prose is this; We can be honest before God until we realize again who He is and remember how great our God really is with what is possible by believing in Him.  God sees our hearts and opens His loving arms to all who humbly bow before him and sincerely seek His wisdom and advice.  There is no one like our God!

Psalm 13, The Message

A psalm of David.

^1-2 Long enough, God—
    you’ve ignored me long enough.
I’ve looked at the back of your head
    long enough. Long enough
I’ve carried this ton of trouble,
    lived with a stomach full of pain.
Long enough my arrogant enemies
    have looked down their noses at me.

^3-4 Take a good look at me, God, my God;
    I want to look life in the eye,
So no enemy can get the best of me
    or laugh when I fall on my face.

^5-6 I’ve thrown myself headlong into your arms—
    I’m celebrating your rescue.
I’m singing at the top of my lungs,
    I’m so full of answered prayers.

WHAT DO WE LEARN—HOW DO WE RESPOND?

David was frustrated by the evil that he saw in those around him. He praised God for his faithfulness and constancy.  Even when things seem to be falling apart all around us and maybe even in us; we must remember, God is still in control. Everything falls within His domain for He is Sovereign always and forever.  Truth does not change. His love for us does not change. We are His children whom He loves no and forever.

There is no one like our God!

Lord,

Thank you for the song of David that encouraged my heart. Thank you, Holy Spirit for guiding me to all that is true.  I love and praise you with all that is in me. My heart shouts your praise even in the middle of the night!

In Jesus Name, Amen