How long wilt thou forget me, O Lord? for ever? how long wilt thou hide thy face from me? How long shall I take counsel in my soul, having sorrow in my heart daily? how long shall mine enemy be exalted over me? Consider and hear me, O Lord my God: lighten mine eyes, lest I sleep the sleep of death; Lest mine enemy say, I have prevailed against him; and those that trouble me rejoice when I am moved.
Psalm 13:1-4 (KJV)
David was depressed, y’all; this was a difficult time for him. It might have been when Saul was pursuing him, wanting him dead. It might have been when his son Absalom rebelled and tried to seize the throne, and David fled–fled! from his own son! It might have been some other time; I don’t know. But I do know David was down, and I really don’t blame him.
But that’s not the end of the chapter. He goes on to add verses 5 and 6.
But I have trusted in thy mercy; my heart shall rejoice in thy salvation. I will sing unto the Lord, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.
Psalm 13:5-6 (KJV)
David had a reason to be down in the dumps, and for awhile he was. But then, almost like a reminder to himself, he says, “I’ve trusted in God’s mercy; my heart will rejoice because He gives salvation. I will sing praises and worship the Lord, because He’s been generous/merciful/pouring-down-blessings to me.”
So many times when we get down, well, we get down. We sulk and whine and cry and feel sorry for ourselves and doubt and start to lose hope.
But do we remind ourselves of God’s promises? Do we tell ourselves, “Hey, God’s got this! He’s still good, He still loves you, He’ll deliver you!” Do we make the choice to praise even when things aren’t going well?
It’s okay to be sad; it’s okay to freely admit you’re scared and upset. There’s nothing wrong with acknowledging that, yes, this is a very rough time right now. That, yes, you feel alone and uncared for. That, yes, you wonder if things are going to ever be okay again.
But then move on. Remind yourself Who God is and what He’s done. Assure yourself and strengthen your hope by standing on His promises. Pray and ask for help; thank and praise God.
Just like David.
