David’s struggle with despondency grew very intense, perhaps prompting him to write the song we know today as Psalm 13. We can’t be certain of the issue plaguing the poet-king. We do know, however, that some of David’s darkest days came before he was officially promoted to the throne of Israel. God was preparing him for an immense task, and He used the trials to shape him into a man of maturity and inner strength.
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The Heartbreak of Hopelessness
Many years ago when I was living in Dallas attending seminary, I received a phone call that led me to a tiny, dirty garage apartment. I was met at the screen door by a man with a 12-gauge shotgun. He invited me in. We sat for over an hour at a tiny kitchen table with a naked light bulb hanging above it. He poured out a heartbreaking story. He had just been released from the hospital, recovering from back surgery.
Read MoreFront and Center in the Mind of God
It’s humbling to think that the Creator of the universe, whose power, knowledge, and goodness know no limits, actually cares about us and loves us individually and personally. Think about how difficult it would be to reach the CEO of a major corporation to discuss your problems with a product. Or imagine trying to get a few moments alone with the President of the United States to talk about your foreign policy concerns.
Read MoreA Message from God
As though David continues his worship service, he opens his mouth and shares a message from God, which is the major theme of this composition. We can imagine his standing before the people and preaching about the needs of humanity and the grace of God. First, he considers the pitiful inadequacy of humanity. Read verses 3 and 4 slowly. Think them over and enter into the mental picture David has in mind.
Read MoreA Song of Praise
Having worshiped God in a short doxology, David reflects on the greatness of his God and, in doing so, offers praise. Observe as King David takes his place before a congregation of believers to lead them in worship. [You] have displayed Your splendor above the heavens! From the mouth of infants and nursing babes You have established strength because of Your adversaries
Read MoreThe Majesty of God
As I observe Psalm 8, three introductory observations leap off the page. First, it is a psalm of David, written under the Holy Spirit’s direction. These are not merely the idle reflections of a creative artist. He was given this song as a gift from God to humanity. These are the words of God. Second, I note the superscription “on the Gittith.” The etymology of this Hebrew term is a subject of debate among scholars.
Read MoreThe Value of God’s Creatures
All of us need to be needed. We want to be wanted. God created us with a desire to know we can contribute something valuable and to have a significant impact in the lives of others. In years past, great men and women longed to leave their marks on the world, to create a legacy that would continue after they had passed away.
Read MoreGod’s Shield against Discouragement
Sometimes we suffer discouragement because of difficult circumstances caused by no one in particular: natural disasters, disease, economic downturns, injury. Frequently, however, we suffer because enemies cause us harm and refuse to stop. That was David’s lament in Psalm 5. He knew discouragement can easily escalate into resentment, bitterness, hatred, and finally retaliation.
Read MoreAgents of God’s Will
Having reviewed the attributes of God, focusing on His sovereignty and goodness, David examines himself (Psalm 5:7–8). But as for me, by Your abundant lovingkindness I will enter Your house, at Your holy temple I will bow in reverence for You. O LORD, lead me in Your righteousness because of my foes; make Your way straight before me.
Read MoreThe Attributes of God
After the plea in Psalm 5:1–3, David begins to think through the day that spreads out before him, giving extra consideration to those he would encounter. His song addresses four specific realms of interest (Psalm 5:4–11). 1. David meditates on the Lord Himself (5:4–6). 2. David describes himself (5:7–8). 3. David describes his enemies (5:9–10). 4. David describes the righteous (5:11).
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