I’ve never felt the earth literally shaking beneath my feet, but devastating circumstances have caused my world to rock. What about you? We can build an unshakeable faith on our rock-solid God so when times of trial and difficulty come, we can stand firm.
Scripture tells us that trouble and trials will be a part of our life (John 16:33, James 1:2). But what do we do when they hit? What do we do when we can’t see God actively working in our circumstances?
In Psalm 71, the psalmist cries out to God for help. His troubles were piling up and he couldn’t see God at work. If you have time, read the entire psalm. It’s only 24 verses. Here, I’d like to share six things the psalmist did to stand firm on God’s truth when everything around him was shaking.
- Ask – Express your need to God and ask for Him to intervene. “Deliver me, O my God, from the hand of the wicked” (Psalm 71:4).
- Remember – Reflect on the ways God has worked in your life and helped you in the past. “For you have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD, my confidence since my youth. From birth I have relied on you” (Psalm 71:5-6a).
- Praise – Glorify God for who He is! It will foster trust in your great God. “My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long” (Psalm 71:8).
- Appeal – Base your request for help on God’s character and faithfulness. “Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness” (Psalm 71:2).
- Place – Put your hope and trust in God to work in your circumstances. “But as for me, I will always have hope” (Psalm 71:14a).
- Anticipate – Watch for God to work! Anticipate His deliverance! “You will increase my honor and comfort me once again” (Psalm 71:21).
Like the psalmist, even in the midst of his trouble we can stand firm on God and His truth. We may not see Him working, but we can take refuge in our Rock and Fortress (Psalm 71:3).
What storm rages around you today? Cry out to God for help. Praise Him and anticipate His deliverance!
Very nice.