I know someone who is going through a very difficult and discouraging time. As I’ve been praying for them, I’ve been encouraged by the words of Psalm 57. David paints a very graphic picture of his situation in verses 4 and 6. He is under attack from people that are out to destroy him. David doesn’t make light of his circumstances, but he also declares some truths about God that are his source of help and hope.

God is his safe place—his refuge. I love the imagery in verse one where David says he will stay in the shadow of God’s wings until the disaster is over. He’s going to stay as close to God as possible during these difficult days. There’s no better place to be!

David also understands that God will not only keep him safe, but He will fulfill His purpose for David. What a wonderful reminder. David finds protection from the evil purposes of his enemies while confident that God is able to use these same circumstances to fulfill His greater purpose for David.

God’s place of refuge offers both protection and purpose, but David is also assured of God’s provision. In verse 3 David declares: “God will send out his steadfast love and his faithfulness!” David was confident God would send him exactly what he needed during those difficult days.

Psalm 57 ends with David rejoicing in the great love and faithfulness of God and praying that, above all, God would be exalted and His glory revealed.

I can’t think of a better ending to David’s story and to the story of the one I’ve been praying for. May the enemy’s purpose be thwarted. May God’s purpose be accomplished. And, above all, may God be exalted and glorified.

PS I just realized this is like a three-point sermon complete with alliteration. (Can you tell I’ve spent most of my life surrounded by preachers? 🙂 ) However, I trust these three alliterative points are an encouragement. They have been to me.

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