Terrified and Hopeless

David faced a crisis. Pursued by Saul and Israel’s armies, he felt hopeless, as if strangled by “the cords of death.” He was “terrified” and didn’t see a way of escape.

Finally, everything changed. What made the difference? He cried out to God with intensity, “The earth shook and quaked; and the foundations of the mountains were trembling and were shaken, because He was angry” (v. 7).

We notice that God responded only after David cried out to Him. As the circumstances changed, David realized that God delivered him from his enemy, even though they “were too mighty for [him]” (v. 17). He continued to face difficulties, but he knew that God was with him and would deliver him.

We can feel the fear in David’s voice and sense how desperate he felt. Then we can understand more clearly why he said, “I love You, O Lord, my strength” (v. 1). We can understand more clearly why he looked at God as his rock, fortress, and deliverer. David knew that God would save him and that he could depend on Him. What a wonderful
feeling!

How do you respond when you face problems? When you feel trapped, worried, or hopeless? As David learned, these are opportunities to seek God, to stay confident that He will hear your prayers. Make Him your
strength. Your rock, fortress, and deliverer. He is your shield and stronghold. He is worthy to be praised!