Friday Faith Check-up: Triumph Over Despair!

"Thou, Lord, bruisest me, but I am abundantly satisfied, since it is from Thy hand."  - John Calvin

Like it or not, despair is something that any one of us may encounter at anytime. This was David's case in Psalm 22, while an exile in the hands of pagan captors. Let's not kid ourselves, if someone like him could feel the lonely pangs of despair, then you and I are certainly not immune to it by any means!

To make it a little easier for our discussion today, let's break Psalm 22 down into three concise parts. First, we'll consider the difficult situation in which David found himself. What is David's question in Psalm 22:1 suggesting?

Foremost, it points out a sense of abandonment or desertion. This is coming from the same individual who composed the unequaled Twenty-third Psalm, conveying the closest relationship with God, who is now probing the depths of despair. David has now reached a point in his life when he felt isolated in the world.

The lesson here is that there is nothing false about despair. Another thing, his cry reveals puzzlement. It's not true that "faith asks no questions." Instead, a firm faith in God will help a Christian ask beneficial questions in the hour of hardship. Despite the severity of David's despair, he never lost sight of God.

Next, let's examine David's request for help; specifically in Psalm 22:19. Who would argue that in the midst of great crisis that self is silenced, letting the voice of God speak loud and clear. Sometimes, trouble can be a blessing, especially when it propels us closer to God. I direct you to Job 13:15 for a similar example.

This wasn't an expression of blind faith or indifference, but a child of God holding on for dear life to his heavenly Father with the fierce, determination that only love can make possible. David's despair pushed him toward God rather than away from Him. This was because he had learned from past experience that God was merciful and gracious.

His preparation did not allow him to believe that God wasn't concerned about his suffering. He was confused, for sure. But this didn't stop him from baring his soul to God. Finally, we shall examine David's praise to God for deliverance from his sorrow and suffering. Turning to Psalm 22:22, we see that it reveals a sudden mood change, which is then followed by his exhortation that all should praise God.

One can almost see the storm clouds lifting from David's turbulent soul. Now he was ready to rejoice before the Lord. How many times have we tossed and turned at night over a problem or dilemma? Then, with the dawning of a new day, we find rest and calmness in the Lord (Psalm 30:5). This psalm concludes with a cry of deliverance.

In place of forsakeness, David finds fulfillment. Instead of confusion, the answer is clear. In comparison to the bleak and depressing beginning of the psalm, the everlasting strand of faith runs throughout. Think of this as a special high-speed internet connection to God, which may be out of sight, but is always linking us to Him.

Various events in life cause many to reach a point where they can't seem to find any reason or purpose for living. Everything feels like it's closing in, and there appears to be no way out. Life at that point is confusing, blurry and it makes no sense. This feeling of despair is not unique.

When it comes to suffering and despair, there's a lot that we just don't know. Fortunately, we can deal with despair with the confidence of both, our faith, and in God's redemptive purpose. And while we don't share God's omniscience, we do know that a brighter day awaits us just around the corner.

Scripture: Romans 15:13; Philippians 4:19; John 5:24; Joshua 1:9; Proverbs 30:5

Prayer: Dear Lord, though the world appears to be crashing down around me, and my suffering has taken the joy out of life; I know that I can always count on You, who always knows what to do, for wise counsel, peace, and compassion in my darkest hour. Amen

Have a blessed and safe weekend!

Kaye