Psalm 55 -- The Right Way To Look At Our Problems

David had to deal with the treachery of a false friend – someone he’d gone to church with many times to worship the Lord together.  But now this friend was helping to destroy David’s life.  My commentary said this psalm reveals four possible approaches to handling the painful problems and battles of life:

First, we can look within at our feelings:  He feared God was ignoring his prayer.  “It’s natural to look at our feelings and express our fears, but that isn’t the way to solve the problems.

Second, we can look beyond for a safe refuge:  “When we find ourselves in the midst of trouble, our first thought is: ‘How can I get out of this?’ But the dedicated believer needs to ask, ‘What can I get out of this?’ … The human heart longs for a safe and peaceful refuge from the problems and burdens of life … We don’t need … to fly away from the storm.  We need … to fly above the storm.”

Thirdly, we can look around at our circumstances:  David saw that his good friend he’d worshiped with was now counseling his son to rebel against his own father.  That broke David’s heart.  David prayed that God would bring confusion to his son’s ranks, and God answered by using Hushai to overrule Ahithophel’s plans.

Lastly, we can look up to God and trust Him:  “While it’s normal for us to hope for a quick way of escape, and important for us to understand our feelings and circumstances, it’s far more important to look up to God and ask for His help … David was still able to pray … and God answered … David was certain that the Lord would hear him and rescue him because He was enthroned in heaven and in complete control … he’d learned during the changing times in his life to trust the God who never changes… what life does to us depends on what life finds in us,” my commentary said.

“In verse 22, the word translated burden means that which he has given you, reminding us that even the burdens of life come from the loving heart and hand of God.”

Father, right now You know I need Your wisdom and guidance.  I’ve looked within at my own feelings.  I’ve looked beyond, hoping for a safe refuge.  I’ve looked around at my circumstances.  But despite it all, help me to keep my eyes on You and trust You.  You are in complete control, meaning that nothing in this life is beyond Your control.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford