Psalm 13:1-6 – Growing through trials

David wrote this Psalm and addressed it to the choirmaster or otherwise known as the chief musician. From the way this Psalm is structured, we can feel the anguish and despair of David. This probably occurred when he was fleeing from King Saul who pursued David for a while. It was truly a hazardous adventure for him. At one time he had to pretend to be mad. Then he also had to act as if he was colluding with Israel’s enemies. These and many other accounts of his life as a refugee, could be seen in 1 Samuel 19 right through to 31. 

It is no surprise then for him to feel anguish and in utter despair. The length of his persecution had reduced him to such distress. In his long and arduous desolation, he felt as if God had turned His face away from him. He had this feeling as if God had forgotten him and so was in total perplexity. In verses 1 and 2, his cries of “How long?” is therefore understandable. He was wondering how long before these trails would be over. We know that this kind of response is not specific to David, but also everyone, who at times has to endure long and trying moments. Tiredness and weariness always lead to impatience. And prolonged impatience would make one discontent and complain.

David, however, did not spend his whole time lamenting or engaged in self-pity. He chose to disengage and turn his despairing moments into an occasion for prayer. He specifically asked for three things: (1) that God would consider him; (2) that God would hear him; and (3) that God would strengthen and preserve him. The obvious would happen if God would not intervene. The enemy would overcome him and boast in their jubilation. And David definitely did not want that to happen. Thus God was his only recourse, so he prayed.

In prayer, David felt a deep assurance of God’s help. And from prayer, David progressed to praise. He began trusting and rejoicing. He recalled the lovingkindness of God and so rejoiced in God’s deliverance. From the joy, he burst out into singing of God’s wonderful dealing in his life, and the blessing God had poured upon him.    

We must know that the trials we encounter in life may be long at times. Through trials, we learn to trust in the Lord and grow in Him. Instead of murmuring and complaining, we should turn them into moments of encountering God in prayer. He promises to be with us, even in our trials. And when we have done praying, start praising. We will find the strength to overcome, for that is God’s assurance to us. Praise His Name!