Muskegon, MI pier - photo by Steve Lasher
“Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in the miry depths, where there is no foothold. I have come into the deep waters; the floods engulf me. I am worn out calling for help; my throat is parched. My eyes fail, looking for my God.
But I pray to you, Lord, in the time of your favor; in your great love, O God, answer me with your sure salvation. Rescue me from the mire, do not let me sink; deliver me from those who hate me, from the deep waters. Do not let the floodwaters engulf me or the depths swallow me up or the pit close its mouth over me.
Answer me, Lord, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me” — Psalm 69:1–3, 13, 16.
Ever feel like the waters of tribulation have come up to your neck and beyond? I have. And it’s not a pleasant sensation. At times, I’ve been so overcome with grief that I didn’t know how I’d make it out of bed, let alone cope with the regular routine of daily life and living.
I suspect I am not alone. Life becomes hectic, random, and oftentimes throws us a curve ball. The curve may come in the form of a pink slip from a boss, a child’s bad decision, or a broken dryer. Regardless, I’ve felt like I’m drowning in a sea of despair and sometimes rage.
In Psalm 69, David shares with us his cry of distress in his sea of trouble. Chased, threatened, and lonely, David knew the meaning of despair and loneliness firsthand.
Where do you go when the walls shrink around you? To whom do you turn when life as you know it may as well be over? David prayed to God and pleaded for answers and relief. He knew God as being good and that he would show mercy.
Going to the right source for help is the answer. God cares and loves us. He longs for us to seek him with our whole heart.
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