Psalm 56:9 - God is with Me Every Step of My Journey
“When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.”
Background
King David wrote Psalm 56 during a time of great distress. Saul, the first anointed king of Israel, had become greedy and self-centered, leading to God’s displeasure due to Saul’s continued disobedience. Consequently, God informed the Prophet Samuel of His plans for David to become the new king of Israel. Although David was anointed as the next king while Saul was still reigning, he became a king in waiting. Saul’s jealousy intensified, and he began to hunt David down, forcing him to flee and seek refuge among the Philistines—Israel’s enemies.
In Psalm 56, David expresses the emotional turmoil and fear he experienced while being pursued by his enemies. He vividly describes the distress he felt as his enemies watched his every move, plotting against his life. Despite the difficulties and fears, David’s faith in God remained unshaken. During his tribulation, he drew strength from prayer and his deep faith, surrendering his fears to God and trusting in God's everlasting love and power. David surrendered his fears to God, trusting God’s eternal love and power. He knew that God was with him, just as He was with all His people. Deuteronomy 32:10 and Psalm 17:8 remind us that we are the apple of His eye.
Three Lessons from Psalm 56:9
This short verse imparts three significant lessons:
Prayer as a Refuge: “When I cry unto thee,” - Pray sincerely to God. ****Pray with a humble heart. Communicate with God openly and respectfully, giving Him your worries, fears, and heartache.
Faith in God's Plan: “This I know,” - Have complete faith and trust in God’s plan. There should be no doubt that God has your best interest at heart. Fully believe that God will answer your prayers in His time, not yours.
Deliverance Through Faith: “Then shall mine enemies turn back,” - Trust that God will deliver you. When you trust in God and surrender control of your life to Him, He will protect you from all harm. Fears of defeat, failure, unworthiness, lack of love, financial struggles, and uncertainty about the future will disappear. God is almighty, the supreme ruler of the universe, and there is nothing He cannot do.
Biblical Assurance
In Isaiah 41:10, God reassures us: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” The apostle Paul echoes this promise in Romans 8:31: “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Being children of God does not exempt us from hardships; we may face even more challenges. Jesus Christ endured hardships, hatred, rejection, and more during His earthly life, but all His struggles had a beautiful purpose. Likewise, our tribulations serve a purpose in our lives on this Earth.
A Personal Reflection" “Elohim Li” - God is For Me
The phrase “For God is for me” in Hebrew, “Elohim Li,” has become my guiding mantra as I embark on this new journey.
I didn’t fully realize the extent of the emotional toll my divorce took on me until I came out on the other side and saw that God had carried me through that dark period. The years following my divorce were filled with even more physical and emotional pain. The loss of my furry baby plunged me into an even deeper abyss. Yet, this was also a period of spiritual growth for me. Every lesson that God sent or allowed me to experience had a purpose. Once again, He carried me through.
As I begin this new journey, I do so with the knowledge that it will be beautiful. I have learned to have unwavering faith, to pray to God, and to let go of my fears, knowing that He holds my life in His hands. I have also learned the importance of patience. I cannot rush God; His timing is always perfect. Though I know I will still face trials, I have learned not to be anxious or afraid. Instead, I step back and let God take control of any situation that satan may throw my way.
Final Thoughts
"Our lives are made up of several journeys, both sad and joyous. As we walk through them, let us hold onto the knowledge that God is for us. Elohim Li."