We must realize that trials are inevitable, but God’s grace is available. Are you going through a difficult time? King David was experiencing a life threatening situation and this Psalm provides a helpful perspective for us when facing difficulties. David’s response was to cry out to God for help:

I will exalt You, Lord, for You have lifted me up, and have not let my enemies rejoice over me. Lord my God, I cried to You for help, and You healed me. (Psalm 30:1-2)

David used vivid imagery as the Hebrew word for lifted me up is the word used to lift up a bucket from a well. The etymology of the word heal is to mend by stitching and figuratively it has the idea to heal, repair, or make whole. David was thankful for God’s preservation of his life:

Lord, You have brought up my soul from Sheol; You have kept me alive, that I would not go down to the pit. (Psalm 30:3)

When we’re in a difficult situation, we may think it’s a permanent condition. David realized that we will encounter momentary affliction, but God’s favor is for a lifetime:

For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning. (Psalm 30:5)

You may be in a season of sorrow. You must realize that this too shall pass. The Apostle Paul recognized this truth as he encouraged the Corinthians to maintain an eternal perspective:

For our momentary, light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory far beyond all comparison, while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal. (2 Corinthians 4:17-18)

We must never lose sight of our dependence upon God. Times of prosperity may cause us to become complacent in our spiritual walk. David realized the folly of his independence in living one’s life apart from God’s guiding hand:

Now as for me, I said in my prosperity, “I will never be moved.” Lord, by Your favor You have made my mountain to stand strong; You hid Your face, I was dismayed.  (Psalm 30:6-7)

God allows us to go our own way, but if we depart from Him, then He will not be with us. David found relief as he prayed to God:

To You, Lord, I called, and to the Lord I pleaded for compassion: (Psalm 30:8)

Where is your focus? Our darkest days are the time when we must come to Him. As we come to God, He can transform our sorrow into joy. Are you aware of the promise of a new day dawning?

You have turned my mourning into dancing for me; You have untied my sackcloth and encircled me with joy.  (Psalm 30:11)

Associate Pastor – Discipleship.  The Church at LifePark

Professor of Discipleship, Columbia International University

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