“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles” ( Psalm 34:17).

Crying, especially for adults, is not looked at favorably. Perhaps it is because it is associated with infant hood. Most men would not like to be pictured shedding a tear, even if they feel deep pain. For most putting up a show of brave face that hardly reveals any emotion, is what makes a total man.

When the Israelites started to accuse Moses of intending to harm them, “They said, “Why did you bring us up out of Egypt to make us and our children and livestock die of thirst?” ( Exodus 17:3). In that hour of anguish, “Then Moses cried out to the Lord, “What am I to do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me” ( vv 4).

David was one man who often went to the Lord crying. Pursued by enemies, he cried, “Be merciful to me, my God, for my enemies are in hot pursuit; all day long they press their attack. My adversaries pursue me all day long; in their pride many are attacking me”     ( Psalm 56:1-3). He was never ashamed to shed his tears before the Lord and adds, “Record my misery; list my tears on your scroll are they not in your record?Then my enemies will turn back when I call for help. By this I will know that God is for me” ( vv 8-9).

Like Moses and David, you too might find yourself with an upsetting situation. These giants of God were never hesitant to go out and cry out to the Lord. For David sang, “I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring”             ( Psalm 77: 1-2). And may you do as well. The Lord will look down on your tears and bring due deliverance.

Prayer today: Lord Father God of Abraham, maker of heaven and earth, when faced with sorrow and trials, I turn and cry out to you for deliverance, that I might taste of your victory, this I pray in Jesus’ name!