Reading: Psalm 6:3-9

Psalm 6:3 – “How long will this last? Come back to me, Lord! Deliver me!”

David cries out to God in Psalm 6 much as we cry out to God over the courses of our lives. In this Psalm, David is “completely terrified.” Perhaps you have felt this way. Or maybe you have felt utterly hopeless or totally defeated or absolutely alone or beyond grief. Maybe it is a chronic illness that has settled in, disrupting your life. In each case and many more we’ve all uttered words similar to David’s: “How long will this last? Come back to me, Lord! Deliver me!”

David must feel close to death. He lifts the idea that no one praises God from Sheol, a place between death and eternity. As the Psalm continues, David expresses his sorrow and pain. He feels worn out. Each night his bed is soaked with tears. His vision has become unclear – perhaps physically but more likely emotionally. The feeling of not being able to see or think straight has effected all of us during difficult times in life.

The affliction of David appears to be caused by others. David tells the “evil doers” to get away. There is a reason besides simply wanting relief or healing. David declares that God has heard his cries, that God has listened, that God accepts his prayer. The light and love of God has permeated David’s darkness. Of this, David is sure. He feels it in his heart. In our times of suffering and trial, may it be so for us as well.

Prayer: Lord God, sorrow, pain, suffering, grief – they are all part of this life. All will come upon us at times. Lead us to you in these moments and seasons – you are our rock and our hope. Guide us to trust in you alone – you are our strength and our redeemer. Amen.