Psalm 31:14–15

We have seen David recount his problems in many psalms, but in this psalm the procession of problems is particularly depressing. Tears blurred his eyes and his body and soul were withering away. He felt as if he was dying from grief. Sin had drained his strength and he was wasting away from within. His enemies were laughing at him and even his friends were avoiding him when they saw him in the street. He felt as if he was surrounded by terror, knowing that his enemies were plotting to kill him. But, amid all of this pressure, he knew that he could look to God with confidence, knowing that his future was in God’s hands. This knowledge didn’t suddenly remove all his problems, but it did give him security and confidence.

We are all curious about our future. However, the truth is that none of us knows what the future holds. Life may stay much the same for many years or it might change overnight. We simply do not and cannot know. It is therefore vital that we place ourselves in God’s hands in the same way as King David.

The psalm goes on to describe the way in which David knew that God would bless him. He said: “great is the goodness you have stored up for those who fear you. You lavish it on those who come to you for protection” (v19). He was confident that, despite the continual threats, God would keep him safe. He also knew he would continue

to experience God’s love. He praised the Lord for he had shown him “the wonders of his unfailing love” (v 21). And he also knew that God would hear his prayers. He recalled a time when he had felt in total despair and had cried out: “I am cut off from the Lord!” and God had answered his cry (v22).

David faced problems on a scale that few of us will ever experience and God proved to be totally reliable. No wonder he placed his future in God’s hands!

Question

Have you placed your future in God’s hands and, if so, how does this affect your daily life?

Prayer

Lord God, thank you that you are my God. I gladly place my future in your hands. Amen