Two-minute read.
“When I wept and humbled my soul with fasting, it became my reproach.”
Psalm 69:10
Devouring flame.
Desperation pours from David’s prayers, praying, and fasting; the king needs help. The shepherd boy from long ago knew precisely where to get assistance. Accused of mishandling church funds, he experienced ex-communication. David’s actions and zeal for serving the Lord didn’t make sense to the people. And so they made something up:
“What I did not steal must I now restore?” Psalm 69:4
Researching today’s verse, the commentary on David mishandling church funds shocked me. But people making up lies because they don’t understand someone’s actions for the Lord doesn’t. When God designed us, He gave us a desire to know. Eve bit into the apple because she wanted the Lord’s knowledge:
“For God knows that when you eat from it your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God, knowing good and evil.” Genesis 3:5
Designed with a desire for knowledge, if people don’t know something, they will make it up. When I moved to Virginia from Pennsylvania, people didn’t understand why I did it. Rumors swirled around me, and I didn’t know it. When they started to come to light, it hurt me deeply. Words hurt more than people think they do.
In David’s desperation, he fasted and prayed to God for help. Trusting the Lord’s timing, David waited for deliverance from his enemies. The king’s faith didn’t waver, even under shunning and false accusations. David kept his eyes on God and used fasting and prayer to help him.
“Answer me, O Lord, for your steadfast love is good; according to your abundant mercy, turn to me.” Psalm 69:16
God’s abundant mercy hears our prayers. I don’t know all the details of David’s false accusations, but I know that even if he had committed fraud and turned to the Lord in repentance, God would forgive him. David would face consequences for his actions, but the Lord still loved him.
And God loves each of us, no matter what sins lie in our past. The Lord’s abundant mercy knows no bounds when we place our faith in Him. Fasting and prayer help us discover God’s abundant grace. Seek a deeper relationship with your Creator, and you will find one.
Journal Questions:
- How can I apply today’s devotion to my life?
- How have you handled false accusations in the past?
- How can you apply fasting and prayer to your current situation?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for having abundant mercy and grace for us. Forgive us our sinful ways. Guide and direct us on the path of righteousness, one step at a time. When life presses in on us, please help us keep breathing, practicing calm in the storm. Bend Your ear to hear our prayers, encourage us through Your Spirit, and allow us to persevere through the trials of life. IJNIP. Amen
