"I Waited Patiently..."

A guest post by Chad Ramsey.

Photo by Joshua Earle on Unsplash

How David Faced Life’s Struggles.

It would be impossible to study the life of David without noticing the many difficulties that he had to face.

Whether he was challenging the giant Goliath, hiding from King Saul, struggling with his own sinful actions, or defending his kingdom against his own sons, David’s life was filled with trials. So how did this man after God’s own heart face these difficulties?

A partial answer is found in Psalm 40. David wrote:

“I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry” (Psalm 40:1).

During times of tribulation, David learned to rely upon God. Why? He did so because of what God can provide.

David continued:

“He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth—Praise to our God; many will see it and fear, and will trust in the LORD” (Psalm 40:2-3).

What God Provides to the Struggling.

Notice four things that God provides to those who struggle.

(1) God provides deliverance.

David noted: “He also brought me up out of a horrible pit…” The trials of life are certainly not greater than our God.

(2) God provides stability.

While difficult times seem to be the most precarious, it is during those times that God can “set [our] feet upon a rock.” We should never overlook the importance of standing upon solid ground.

(3) God provides direction.

Just as he did for David, God will “establish [our] steps.” The guidance He provides must not be ignored.

(4) God provides a new outlook.

David wrote: “He has put a new song in my mouth—Praise to our God.”

Are you waiting patiently?

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Chad Ramsey preaches for the Gloster Street Church of Christ in Tupelo, Mississippi. You can access their Bible classes and Chad’s sermons on Gloster Street’s YouTube page.

Chad was - and still is - “my preacher” from when I spent my high school and early college years at Gloster Street. I’m thankful to be able to share some of his writings with you.