Have you ever despaired? David did. We might hide our despair from others (Ps 73:15), but we still go through them.
The Bible records the despairing occasions of great men & women...
• To show us that they are made of the same stuff.
• So that those in despair can identify with them and take heart.
• To show us the way out.
I. WHAT BROUGHT HIM DESPAIR
A. Misunderstood Circumstances
1. “Forget me.” David felt that his painful circumstances were evidence that God had forgotten him.
2. It is so human to feel as though God has forgotten us – Isa 49:14-16
a) God’s allowance of sorrow is not evidence of his lack of favour.
b) It is immaturity to think that God will never allow us to be brought low (Job 10:2).
B. Impatience
1. Four times: “How long?” “Forever?” shows his despair.
2. Not the sharpest, but longest trials that we are most in danger of fainting. In the first case, the soul collects all its strength, and is quick to pray for help; but, in the last, the mind relaxes, and sinks into despondency.
• When Job was brought evil tidings in quick succession, he bore it with fortitude; but when he could see no end to his troubles, he sunk under them.
3. One of God’s major purposes for trials is patience (James 1:2-4).
C. Inward focus
1. Take counsel in my soul – the many counsels or plans that he made for his deliverance that never came to fruition.
2. David was frustrated at his own inability to deliver himself.
3. The more we focus on ourselves, the more sorrow will be in our hearts.
II. WHAT BROUGHT HIM OUT
A. Prayer (v. 3-4)
1. His prayer was honest (didn’t hide his discouragement).
2. His prayer was specific (related to immediate concern).
3. His prayer was logical (used arguments):
a) Lest the enemy reproach b/c David was moved to sin.
b) David, as God’s servant, was often mindful of how his behaviour would cause reproach on the Lord.
B. Faith
1. In God’s character – thy mercy. What we do not understand about circumstances should not let us question what we do know about His character.
2. In future salvation – ultimately we know that God has only good in store for us. We should focus on this and let it bring rejoicing to our hearts.
a) Rapture.
b) Second coming to put down evil.
c) Live forever in New Jerusalem with the Lamb.
3. In God’s overall goodness to us – bountifully.
• How can you not sing the song of the Lord when you think of what we deserve?
