Faith Over Frustration

Feb 5
4 min read

Look on me and answer, Lord my God.

Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death.

Psalm 13: 3, NIV

A few weeks ago, in my Women’s Bible study, we began to focus on the Psalms. Reflecting on Psalm 13, I began to notice how sometimes I have an endless amount of patience, yet other times I am in a state of overwhelm, and it’s as if my well has run dry.

Have you ever tossed and turned, wrestled with unexpected news, or were part of a conversation that did not go well? Or perhaps, even now you or a loved one are battling something, and the Healing Spirit of God feels distant as you search for relief in your despair.

In Psalm 13: 1-6, David writes, "How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever? How long will you hide your face from me? How long must I wrestle with my thoughts and day after day have sorrow in my heart? How long will my enemy triumph over me? Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death, and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,” and my foes will rejoice when I fall. But I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation. I will sing the Lord’s praise, for he has been good to me."

We’ve all been there with feelings of anger, and uncertainty. Here, David feels distressed and uncared for. Sometimes we forget that Jesus went through this, too.

In Matthew 27: 45-46, hurting, hanging, and dying on the cross the soldiers mocked Jesus. After darkness fell about mid-afternoon, He loudly called out, “My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?”

Could it be that God allows certain trials and long seasons to draw us closer to him? You and I know God would never forsake his Son. When we, his children, are at our lowest, God holds us close, too.

When you and I are wrestling within, our all-powerful, all-knowing God is waiting for us to turn to him, seek his Presence, pray, and never give up.

In Psalm 13, verses three and four, David’s tone shifts as he perseveres, softens, and begins to pray. “Look on me and answer, Lord my God. Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death, and my enemies will say, “I have overcome him,” and my foes will rejoice when I fall.”

When weary like David, you and I must stay connected to the Vine. It’s only then, that our hopelessness transforms into hope, and God’s Light overcomes our darkness. Anchored in faith the Lord enlightens us. His Word and Presence provides a way to overcome difficulty, and our hearts can sing in praise.

It’s faith over frustration every single time. You and I were born to win!

Let’s pray.

O’ Lord,

How often you shift my perspective! When I stop lamenting, and look to you, my anxieties drift to the side. Acknowledging my sorrow, pain, or anger I cry out in prayer and realize I buried myself in gloom, but it is only the Light of your Love that enables your Spirit to break through my darkness.

As I trust in your mercy I can rejoice and sing of your goodness. Your unfailing love hears me and answers me. Help me let go of any expectations, and leave my needs in your care. For you answer every prayer in the best possible way. Thank you, for giving Light to my eyes, protecting me from outside forces, and for your healing Spirit. I praise you and thank you sweet Jesus. “I trust in your unfailing love; my heart rejoices in your salvation” (Psalm 13:5).

Amen.

Thank you, sweet friend, for your loving presence in our community. In the days ahead may you breathe deep and trust in God’s unfailing love.

Until next time…

May the Spirit of God lead you,

The Word of God sustain you,

And the Promises of God grant you the gift of everlasting peace.

Have a blessed and beautiful day!

All my love and prayers to you.

It is my honor and privilege to pray and celebrate with you. Please email your prayer requests and praises to sue@faithfirstwomen.com

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This Week’s Reflection Prompts

To remain spiritually alive God’s Light grants Wisdom, and knowledge. Where do you need His Light to shine for you?
The Lord changed David when he prayed. What part of Psalm 13 can transform you?
Personalize this psalm by composing your own prayer using the language of the psalm. As you turn to God, state your complaint/need, trust God with the outcome, and praise him for his unfailing love and goodness.

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