I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Psalm 27:13 (NASB)
As I sit to write this, there’s certainly a lot going on in our nation and world to anguish about. Cultural upheaval, vitriolic divisiveness, fearmongering—and a global pandemic (about which there is much cultural upheaval, vitriolic divisiveness, and fearmongering). Prices are going up, and product availability is going down. Evil is being called good, and good evil; darkness is being put forth as light, and light for darkness (Isaiah 5:20). When I scan the mess around me, it is easy to hang my head in despair (even though the Bible is very clear that all this is to be expected).
But God. Those words are so amazing, aren’t they? A quick search brought up 43 accounts of “But God” in the Bible—and that’s just in one translation!
The Psalms are always a great place to land when distress and sorrow start creeping into our mind and heart. David, in particular, is so authentic as he cries out to the Lord in desperation, fear, anger, or frustration. However, he always comes back around to “but God” and how the Lord’s immutable attributes are a safe harbor for his soul. Let’s look at Psalm 27. In this single song, David confidently proclaims that the Lord is his light and salvation, and that there’s no reason to fear his enemies and evildoers. He goes right from that certainty to crying out for God not to abandon or forsake him. He then leans in to ask the Lord to guide his steps in Truth, especially as others falsely accuse him and breathe out violence against him.
But then it’s as if David looks in a proverbial mirror to remind himself of the main thing: He knows the goodness of the Lord—His grace, mercy, and salvation—so there is no reason to despair.
Friend, both the Old and New Testaments are filled with reminders to keep our eyes on God, whatever our circumstances. So, if you’re feeling overwhelmed today—due to health issues, grief, financial woes, or relationship challenges—know that He is the lifter of your head (Psalm 3:3). Like David, gaze into the mirror of your soul and take to heart these reminders from God’s Word:
- When I am anxious, He gives me peace (Isaiah 26:3; John 14:27).
- When I am weak, He strengthens me (Isaiah 41:10).
- When I am afraid, He frees me from all my fears (Psalm 34:4).
- When I am weary, He takes my burdens (Matthew 11:28-30).
- When I am hopeless, He is my hope (Jonah 2:7).
- When I’m not sure which way to turn, He’ll guide my steps (Proverbs 16:3).
- When I am in distress, He will comfort me (Psalm 91:14-15).
Lord, let me never forget that You are my refuge and strength—a very present help in times of trouble. There is no reason to despair as long as I keep my hope in You.
encouraged by grace 