When Trouble Calls on You...

"There is no man in this world without some manner of tribulation or anguish, though he be king or pope." - Thomas a Kempis

There is no life without trouble. It (trouble) is never very far away. And no matter who we are, trouble will make an appearance at some point in one form or another; and there is no escaping it.

Asaph, a Levite and member of David's choir, who also just happened to be a musical composer, as well, shared one of his experiences with trouble in Psalm 77.

It is believed that he wrote this particular Psalm during the Babylonian captivity of the Jews. Though few of us have had brushes with trouble as severe as this, we can still learn something from Asaph's experience.

What happens when we are overwhelmed, or the bottom drops out from under our feet? As believers, we have an excellent source of comfort and assistance. It is the same wellspring that Asaph drew from in his time of suffering and anxiety: God. 

From the beginning, we can see that he did not try to hide it, avoid it, or handle it all by himself (Psalm 77:1-2). Certainly there will be times when we might be able to handles some minor bumps in the road ourselves. But isn't it comforting to know that we have access to assistance whenever we need it?

Asaph knew exactly who to turn to in his distress. Trouble also has a way of depleting our self-confidence and raising doubt in our minds. This, too, is clearly visible in Asaph's thoughts as you read Psalm 77:1-9. You can tell that it had been playing on his insecurities.

But it was during this sad lamenting of his people's situation that he remembered God's past great works. It dawned on him that God took care of them before, and would do so again if they would turn to Him (Psalm 77:10-20). And that's exactly what Asaph did, he called on God in his time of trouble.

We could all do as well by calling on God whenever trouble pops up. Don't be shy, either. Cry out! Let God hear how much you need Him. After all, trouble is no laughing matter. Pour out your complaints to Him (Psalm 142:2). God can do wonders in times of distress (Psalm 77:14).

Scripture: John 14:1; 1 Peter 5:7; Psalm 34:6; 1 John 5:4; Philippians 4:13

Prayer: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Amen.  -Psalm 27:1

God bless you,

Whitney