In God, whose word I praise—in God I trust and am not afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? (Ps. 56:4)
Whether it is familial dysfunction, workplace chaos, or relationship heartbreak, at some point, we feel misunderstood, and even attacked. A few years ago, I was struggling with some heavy issues—issues that led me to feel misunderstood and maligned. During that time, I was careful to check in with God regularly about the problems. Though it was tempting to lean on friends for support and empathy, only God truly understood. Only he could set things right. More importantly, only God was able to convict me and encourage me simultaneously.
In today’s passage, David cried out in his authentic style, asking God to avenge wrongs done to him. He asked God to remember those who have conspired against him, lurked in the shadows, and watched his steps. David was so certain of God’s love for him, he asked him to record his misery. He said, “List my tears on your scroll—are they not in your record?” This demonstrated that God a God who not only rights wrongs, but also soothes hearts. He is an empathetic God.
On this third Sunday of Advent, remember we are not single-handedly fighting nations like David, but we do fight battles, most of which are spiritual in nature. Sometimes, we will be wronged. God understands. We can follow and serve him with reckless, authentic abandon. He hears, he listens, and he cares.
Follow God with reckless abandon because he is watching out for you.
Dalene (Rovenstine) Fisher is a wife, mother, and grandma. She serves as assistant provost and dean of Arts and Sciences at Oklahoma Wesleyan University.
© 2020 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
