October 29, 2021 – Psalms 11-15

In Psalm 13, David laments that God has forgotten him and has hidden his face from him. His enemies press hard against him all day long. He fears the moment when his foes rejoice over his downfall. But David does not leave the matter at that; in faith he reasons, “But I have trusted in your steadfast love; my heart shall rejoice in your salvation. I will sing to the Lord, because he has dealt bountifully with me” (13:5,6). In the past, David has trusted in the Lord and his steadfast love. God has dealt bountifully with him in the past. Surely, God will continue to be faithful. He does not change.

Matthew Henry has noted, “None live so easily, so pleasantly, as those that live by faith.” John Willison (18th century) concurs: “Faith keeps the soul from sinking under heavy trials by bringing in former experiences of the power, mercy, and faithfulness of God to the afflicted soul.” The world will always be perplexed as to how the child of God can persevere through trials with so much confidence and joy. But, then, the world does not know the one who has dealt so bountifully with us.

O Joy that seekest me through pain,

I cannot close my heart to thee.

I trace the rainbow through the rain,

and feel the promise is not vain,

that morn shall tearless be. --George Matheson (1882)