Surrounded

Psalm 3:1
“Lord, how they have increased who trouble me! Many are they who rise up against me.”

We go through seasons in life. Some are calm and pleasant, while others seem to be like violent storms, with waves crashing upon us from almost every direction. While we may feel as though we are under assault, this is not a new phenomenon. King David, Israel’s most godly king, was no stranger to difficulty. He faced the same struggles we face, and perhaps a few more. At this point in his life, he was blindsided when he learned that his own son had turned against him, organized an army, and was attempting to overthrow the kingdom. His response to this hardship is filled will practical examples for us to cling to, in the midst of our own trying times.

First, David prayed. His prayer consisted of crying out for help, rehearsing his circumstances to the Lord, and choosing to cling to the promises of God. Whatever you are facing, it is important to keep in mind that you can cast all your cares on the Lord, because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:7). Perhaps it was in prayer that David made a decision that would prove to protect the nation and save countless innocent lives. Unlike any other king, David chose not to fight to save his kingdom. Instead, he retreated, giving Jerusalem to Absalom and his forces. What may have looked like giving up, proved to be a move that would ensure victory and save the nation.

Second, David knew the Lord would help Him. He writes,

Psalms 3:3
“But You, O Lord, are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head.”

Because God was his shield, David knew he did not have to defend himself and God would protect him. Because God was his glory, David sought above personal feelings or comforts, to do only what was right in the eyes of God. Because God would ultimately lift David up, he knew that the best place to be was prostrate at His feet.

No matter what you are facing, the solution will be found as you follow the example of David and cry out to God.

Pastor Jim

Psalm 3

This Psalm was written when David left Jerusalem because his son had turned a large portion of the nation against him and was attempting to usurp the throne. Rather than turn the city into a battlefield David left the city and his life into the hands of the Lord. This psalm was his prayer.

According to verse 1-2, what was David experiencing?
Have you or are you facing anything like that today?
What great truth does David remind us of in verse 3?
In verses 5-6, what are the benefits of crying out to the Lord in times of trouble?
What does David cry out for the Lord to do for Him?
I am sure in your troublesome times you have prayed, but have you cried out? Have you sought the Lord like He truly was the answer to your struggle? Take time to cry out to Him now?

Old Testament:
Psalm 4- Emotions
1 Samuel 1- Rise and Shine
1 Samuel 2- Always Watching