David writes about the military struggles he had with the nations surrounding Israel. He felt like all was lost for his kingdom which had been promised by God to Abraham. It is believed that Psalm 60 was a national prayer for God's help to intervene as these nations were successfully attacking Israel.

9 Who will bring me into the fortified city?
Who will bring me victory over Edom?
10 Have you rejected us, O God?
Will you no longer march with our armies?
11 Oh, please help us against our enemies,
for all human help is useless.
12 With God’s help we will do mighty things,
for he will trample down our foes.
Psalm 60:9-12 (NLT)

This psalm seems to take us through all of David's frustrations and feelings at his moment of loss. He thought God was letting him down by allowing Israel to be defeated. David believes that for all who fear God, God will allow a rallying point in the face of despair and he even reminds God of His promises while acknowledging we can do nothing if God is not on our side. David ends this psalm in confidence writing in verse 12, "With God’s help we will do mighty things, for he will trample down our foes."

There are times when God will permit our desires, but there will also be times when God, in His sovereignty, will allow a loss or pain, defeat or trial to grow us and to deepen our faith and dependence on Him. This makes us more like Jesus no matter the circumstance. With God's help, we will do mighty things. He will trample down our foes.

May you live deeply into your calling as shepherd in the lives of those you influence no matter what situation you face.