The Psalms
The Psalms are a collection of 150 ancient songs. The most popular of which is Psalm 23, “The Lord is my shepherd…” Many of these songs were written by David. — David slew a bear and a lion when he was a boy shepherd. He then killed Goliath, the giant. Later, the Lord directed the prophet Samuel to anoint him as King of Israel.
We may not always identify with the particular trials that David experiences and writes about in the Psalms, but we can certainly feel what David felt: fear, anxiety, heartbreak, joy, peace, and exultation. David was angered and grieved by enemies, the betrayal of loved ones, and weighed down by life’s difficulties and tribulations, just as we know too.
The Psalms help us to gain victory over our struggles and trials as we read how David overcame the same obstacles to his happiness and success. The theme running through all the Psalms is how David overcomes every dilemma he encounters through his unwavering faith in God.
David is a marvelous example of resilient faith. His faith sometimes bent, but it never broke. David’s trust in God and His promises were his strength that kept him from destruction. God raised David like a loving father does his beloved son. When David sinned, he confessed and bore God’s correction patiently. God delighted in David because throughout his life David clung to the Lord.
I encourage you to take time to read a Psalm each day. Don’t rush. Read slowly. I guarantee that it will enrich your life. (And if you want help in understanding and applying the wisdom in the Psalms, I have written a book that explains them. And there is also a study Guide included.
