David Praises God in a Time of Distress
December 20, 2020
Commentary
The faith expressed in Psalms 61 and 62 reaches a climax in this marvelous hymn of David, written in the wilderness. He was going through one of those rough times, which seemed to be his lot in life. He had been driven from the throne by his son, Absalom, and was headed out across the wilderness of Judea, which was far from the sanctuary in Jerusalem. What David missed most was God’s house. It was not his palace, nor his family and friends left behind, but God’s house.
He says, “I will lift up my hands in thy name” (v. 4). There are two ways we can lift up our hands for God: we can lift them in supplication and we can lift them in service. No doubt David had both thoughts in mind. God has no hands but our hands to do His work today. There are mission fields all over the world where God’s servants are crying out for help. God’s work needs carpenters, bricklayers, doctors, and people from all walks of life. David lived for God by working for Him.
Satisfaction and song were the ingredients in David’s witness (v. 5). Even though he had been forced to leave behind everything he possessed he was praising God. He was dependent for his next meal on the kindness and generosity of his friends. Did he feel sorry for himself? Not David??
Application
Praise is essential for one’s spiritual life. It should stem spontaneously from my life as a result of God’s intervention in my behalf. Praise, will be an evidence that God is at work in my life.
Psalms 63:1– 11 (NET)
1 O God, you are my God. I long for you. My soul thirsts for you, my flesh yearns for you, in a dry and parched land where there is no water.
2 Yes, in the sanctuary I have seen you, and witnessed your power and splendor.
3 Because experiencing your loyal love is better than life itself, my lips will praise you.
4 For this reason I will praise you while I live; in your name I will lift up my hands.
5 As with choice meat you satisfy my soul. My mouth joyfully praises you,
6 whenever I remember you on my bed, and think about you during the nighttime hours.
7 For you are my deliverer; under your wings I rejoice.
8 My soul pursues you; your right hand upholds me.
9 Enemies seek to destroy my life, but they will descend into the depths of the earth.
10 Each one will be handed over to the sword; their corpses will be eaten by jackals.
11 But the king will rejoice in God; everyone who takes oaths in his name will boast, for the mouths of those who speak lies will be shut up.