Does God see the affliction of his people? When we feel distant from him, is he actually far off? In the closing verses of this Psalm, David appeals to God for deliverance from the power of his enemies who had strength of wild animals, thus his cry, “Deliver my soul from the sword, my precious life from the power of the dog! (21) Save me from the mouth of the lion! You have rescued me from the horns of the wild oxen!” (v20-21). His plea is urgent, “O you my help, come quickly to my aid!” (v20). Like David, we assured that God rescues his people and is our refuge in our time of need. In light of these truths, what does David praise God for as he transitions from lamentation to exaltation?
God is worthy of our praise. David says, “I will tell of your name to my brothers; in the midst of the congregation I will praise you” (v22). A part of our worship is to testify to others of God’s goodness which brings glory to him. Further, there is no testimony without first, the TEST. Why is this act of worship important? Our testimony has the power to impact others to draw them closer to God. He is worthy of all praise and honor that distinguishes him from all that is in creation (to include false gods which are dead things that are not gods at all). Remember when Jesus healed the ten lepers in a small village between Samaria and Galilee? Only one returned to give his testimony of praise with a lifted voice for all to hear. Notice Jesus’ response, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? (18) Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner? (Lk 17:11-19). What we praise is a reflection of the affections that dwell in our hearts.
God sees our struggles. David boasts in this assurance, “For he has not despised or abhorred the affliction of the afflicted, and he has not hidden his face from him, but has heard, when he cried to him” (v24). God has promised to keep us and work for our good even in great difficulty (Rom 8:28). When we trust in his sustaining power in the midst of suffering, our hearts will be filled with joy inexpressible that will burst forth with thanksgiving (fruit of the lips) during both seasons of adversity and prosperity. Thus David declares, “The afflicted shall eat and be satisfied; those who seek him shall praise the Lord! May your hearts live forever!” (v26).
What is the encouragement David offers us? You and I were created to worship God with our lives. In his providential will, He does allow suffering, (partly) that in our weaknesses, we experience the strength of all time God that he is (cf. 2 Cor 12:7-10). We are encouraged to praise him not only in deliverance, but also “within” life’s storms. For in our afflictions we shall see God, and give him glory (our testimony) in the midst of the congregation! Amen and Hallelujah!
Blessings,
Dr. Jason S. Price, Th.D
www.springoflivingwaters.com