O God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. Psalm 63:1
Dear People Who Keep Company with God,
In Psalm 63, David celebrates the joy he discovered through his fellowship with God while in the wilderness of Judah. His words present a challenging truth: even in the Promised Land, we all encounter wilderness moments. Life’s journey mirrors Judah’s diverse landscapes—filled with seasons of blessings, divine favor, and challenging trials. Psalm 63 provides precious insights for navigating the ebbs and flows of our lives as believers. David’s words encourage us to consider our present circumstances, reflect on our past, and anticipate the yet-to-be-written chapters of our future.
David found himself in difficult circumstances, thirsty and weary. Despite the challenging conditions, he clung to the assurance that God remained his unwavering source of strength. Charles Spurgeon beautifully captures this in his commentary on Psalm 63, emphasizing how David didn’t stop singing or lazily repeat Psalms meant for other occasions in the wilderness. Instead, he crafted worship that fit his circumstances, offering a genuine wilderness hymn to his God. If you’re seeking a meaningful life, remember that the present is where it unfolds. Discovering God in the present, regardless of circumstances, is vital to embracing God’s beauty for you now.
David also reminisces, fondly recalling, “I have seen you in your sanctuary and gazed upon your power and glory” (Psalm 63:2). In a spectacular and unforgettable moment, David experiences the beauty of the Lord and His mighty presence within the sanctuary. When facing the challenges of the wilderness, it’s helpful to revisit moments when you felt the Lord’s tangible closeness, where your worship and faith were vibrant. Those were undoubtedly real and impactful times, and your current circumstances don’t diminish the transformative work of the Holy Spirit during those defining moments. As you navigate your wilderness journey, let these memories fill you with strength and courage.
With unwavering faith, David shifts his focus to the future, expressing, “Your unfailing love is better than life itself; how I praise you! I will praise you as long as I live, lifting up my hands to you in prayer” (Psalm 63:3-4). This forward-looking hope is a powerful reminder that we are never abandoned, even in our wilderness moments. A brighter day is on the horizon. The Lord won’t leave you in a desolate and dry land without sustaining you through the refreshing waters of His grace. Your best days are not behind you. God’s heart is to satisfy your life abundantly, no matter the circumstances. So, as you embrace David’s example in Psalm 63, rest assured that you’ll receive the reward of the inheritance the Lord has for you.
Many Blessings, BW