Of all of the Bible characters I love, David stands out near the top of my list. He was so REAL!

The beginning statement before this psalm begins tells us that David wrote this as Saul was hunting him down and as David was betrayed by the Ziphities. Imagine David’s life. How terrifying would it be to be chased by the most powerful person in your country! David cried out to God, and he didn’t sugarcoat his feelings.

He said, “O God, save me by your name…. Ruthless men seek my life.”

This reminds me that when I pray, I can lay everything out there in front of God. I don’t need to pretend. If I’m stressed, I can tell God I’m stressed! If I’m scared, I can tell Him that, too. But David didn’t stop at spilling his emotions. He focused on the truth.

“Behold, God is my helper; the LORD is the upholder of my life.”

For David, that truth must have been very comforting! God is the one who decides how long we will live! Our lives are in His hand. And He helps us through every challenge He allows into our lives.

But David didn’t stop there. Not only did he remind himself of the facts, but he also acted. Not according to his emotions, though. He acted according to what he knew was correct.

“With a freewill offering I will sacrifice to you; I will give thanks to your name, O LORD, for it is good. For he has delivered me from every trouble.” (emphasis mine)

In a time that must have stirred up panic, terror, and anxiety, David spilled his emotions to his Shepherd, reminded himself of the truth, and then acted according to the truth, not his emotions. He could give thanks even in that disturbing situation, knowing that God was with him and would help him through it.

I’m not sure what this year will hold for me. You don’t either. At any time, a curveball could swing your way and knock you to your knees. While you’re down there, remember to do a little talking to God — David’s style.