Psalm 38:6

 

I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long--Psalms 38:6

 

The context of these words spoken by David concern his iniquities that are causing him much distress. Sin will certainly bring into our lives a lot of discomfort as it well should. However, the sentiments of this statement are true as they relate to the feelings that sometimes engulf us because of physical and mental events that so often strike our human frames causing us to be greatly troubled.

 

There are moments when an unspeakable weariness sweeps down over our souls causing much distress, anguish and heartache. For all of us there are those times when we simply want to cry our, "O wretched man that I am" (Romans 7:24). Sometimes the road of life is going to be smooth and easy. Sometimes that same road is going to be rocky and hard. As a faithful child of God, we serve a God is with us every step of the way whether the road be smooth or rocky (Heb. 13:5; Rom. 8:35-39).

 

Whether that which troubles us be physical or mental, whatever its source may be, it is a time for prayer (James 5:13; Philippians 4:6-7). As one of our grand old song so powerfully states, Take it to the Lord in prayer, In his arms he'll take and shield thee, thou wilt find a solace there". It is not a matter of not knowing what to do or where to turn when our heart are troubled and the way is rocky. For you see, we know where comfort, peace of mind and safety can be found. We have the privilege of being able to go to the throne of grace and there receive mercy and help that will see us through any storm of life that may engulf us (Heb. 4:16).

 

When the road is rocky and hard, it is then that our souls must be fastened to the rock which cannot be moved. That rock is Jesus Christ, our Lord and Saviour (Psalms 18:2; Isaiah 40:31). Our prayer should ever be, "Lead me to that rock that is higher than I" (Psalms 61:2) because it is there that we will find rest in this weary land. "Just a closer walk with thee, Grant it, Jesus, is my plea". To God be the glory!

 

Charles Hicks