April 19 - Reading 17: Psalms 57-59

“Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be above all the earth.”

(Psalm 57:5)

Psalms 57-59 were written by David when he was in extreme circumstances. He was in constant fear for his life because King Saul and his men were hunting him down to kill him. Can we even begin to imagine the fear, frustration and anger that David felt?

The young shepherd boy had become a hero in Israel because he had defeated the giant Goliath. But instead of being honored, he was hiding in caves, hunted down, running for His life. Why? All because of jealousy and envy. Saul could not stand David’s popularity, so he ordered his death. At times, Saul even accompanied his men in search of David.

David had every reason to be frustrated with God’s timing and to be angry with God. It appeared as if God was not doing anything to right the wrongs and rescue him. But that did not deter David’s trust in the Lord. In the midst of his difficulties, David says “My soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, until these calamities have passed by” (Psalm 57:1).

David did not deny his circumstances. But David understood that God’s purposes outweigh any temporary trials we face. After listing his troubles, he immediately shifts his focus to the eternal purposes of God: “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be above all the earth.” David is essentially saying “It’s not about me; it’s all about You.”

This is the same mindset we find in Jesus prior to His crucifixion. After asking if the cup of suffering can pass, Jesus concludes with “Nevertheless, not My will, but Yours, be done” (Luke 22:42).

Let’s ask the Lord today to help us move our focus from our temporary trials to His eternal purposes. What a privilege to be chosen, useful vessels for His kingdom and for His glory during our brief time here on earth. After all, it’s all about Him.