“The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” – Psalm 34:19

After a life on the run, during which King Saul repeatedly tried to kill him, David finally saw his nemesis fall at the hands of the Philistines and settled on the throne (1 Samuel 31). Yet David’s troubles were far from over. Some years later his own son Absalom rose against him, ambushed him, and toppled him from power. Once again on the run, David encountered an old loyalist of Saul who pelted him with curses: “As he cursed, Shimei said, ‘Get out, get out, you murderer, you scoundrel! The Lord has repaid you for all the blood you shed in the household of Saul, in whose place you have reigned. The Lord has given the kingdom into the hands of your son Absalom. You have come to ruin because you are a murderer!’” (2 Samuel 16:7-8).

When a life is as tumultuous as David’s was, anyone can understand why he cried out repeatedly for the Lord to deliver him from trouble. But David’s experience is not unique. Any of us can face trouble—financial hardship, adversity at work, neighbours keen to encroach on our property, tax authorities levying unfair charges and threatening our business with closure, or the pain of rebellious children.

What distinguishes King David is he knew where to run in the midst of trouble. Faced with trouble he pleaded: “Hear me, Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am faithful to you; save your servant who trusts in you. You are my God; have mercy on me, Lord, for I call to you all day long” (Psalm 86:1-2).

And the Lord heard him. He delivered David from all his troubles and restored him to the throne that Absalom had stolen, among many other victories.

If your life is in trouble, take comfort: you have a place to run. The Lord understands trouble, and He will bring deliverance to you. “This poor man called, and the Lord heard him; he saved him out of all his troubles” (Psalm 34:6).

Reflection: Am I faced with troubles of any kind? Am I losing hope and trust in God to deliver me from every manner of trouble?

Prayer: Almighty Father God, when I am faced with trouble of any kind, I turn to You. Let Your saving hand deliver me and bring me to victory that I may give you glory. This I pray this in Jesus’ name!