Why can’t I just hope in God? Despite all my emotions, I will believe and praise the One who saves me, my God. Psalm 42:11 Voice
HOPE WINS because in the midst of the deepest sorrow that hits us in waves we can feel God’s presence healing our brokenness.
As I sat down to practice the worship music for the next day, the last thing I wanted to do was to worship. We had just finished speaking with one of the ladies in the church about those who were being very critical of my husbasnd and our ministry. It seemed that one that I considered my best friend in the church had twisted some words that I shared in confidence with her to make disqualify my husband’s pastoral leadership. I was so angry at myself for trusting her and felt so betrayed. I felt deep waves of alternating anger and sorrow as I thought back over the information we had just been given. I started singing the following song inspired by the first two verses of Psalm 42:
And I long to worship you
Here’s a beautiful rendition of this worship song.
Context
David’s son Absalom rebelled against his father and tried to seize the throne. His son was not only the one who abandoned the aging king. Ahithopel was one of David’s most beloved lifetime friends who became a valued adviser during his reign. He abandoned his loyalty, however, in order to support Absalom’s rebellion and came up with a wise plan to surprise and overcome the aging king as he fled. As if that was not enough, David was overwhelmed with sorrow as he heard news that Shimei, a trusted servant, and the cripple Miphiboseth whom David has taken in so beautifully also turned their backs on him.
David was extremely discouraged, heartbroken and lonely when he fled to Mahanaim. An 80-year-old man named Barzillai rallied around him and brought him food and supplies. It is after receiving this kind help from an unexpected place that David writes this beautiful Psalm. It was one of the favorite Psalms during the Babylonian captivity as it shows a heart for seeking God and the longing to be in His presence. They felt hope as they identified with their beloved Psalmist that they would one day return to their beloved Jerusalem.
Hunger and Thirst
David was desperate to be back home in Jerusalem. It was so much more than being in the palace. His desire was to be in the presence of God in order to receive His comfort in light of all the betrayals by those closest to him. He is remembering the joy of leading God’s people in praise and worship. He is remembering better days of singing with the congregation. Instead, he is exiled and running for his life once again. He had done that before he became king and now as an old man he was once again hiding for his life. It’s as if he goes through his memory files of all the close calls he has had in his life and wonders why this time it’s different. Why is it hard to hope this time?
Drowning in Sorrow
The Lord is always with you no matter how many abandon you. When you feel like all is lost, look up to the One who is there in the middle of the mess. He is right there at every turn no matter how big the wave.
Believing and Praising
HOPE WINS!
Prayer
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