Overcoming Bad News

April 29, 2013 — by David C. McCasland

Our Daily Bread Radio is hosted by Les Lamborn

Lord, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us. —Psalm 4:6

Bible in a Year:
1 Kings 6-7; Luke 20:27-47

“There are many who say, ‘Who will show us any good?’” (Ps. 4:6). These words of David seem to describe the pessimistic outlook we so easily develop in our world today. The front page of newspapers and the top stories on the Internet or television seem to focus on crime, accidents, politics, the economy, and prominent people behaving badly. Our conversations at work and home begin to dwell on difficulties, and it’s enough to discourage anyone. Where can we turn for better news?
In the midst of his troubles, David turned to the Lord, who relieved his distress (v.1) and heard his prayer (v.3). Instead of hoping for temporary good from altered circumstances, he found unceasing encouragement in God. “Lord, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us” (v.6). The result was a gladness of heart that surpassed any earthly prosperity or success (v.7).
Throughout David’s life, before and after he became king of Israel, he was never without opposition. But at the end of the day, he could say, “I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety” (v.8).
Pondering the truths in Psalm 4 about God’s care for us is a good way to begin and end every day.

In His care confiding
I will sweetly sleep,
For the Lord my Savior
Will in safety keep. —Psalter

God is a safe dwelling place in life’s storms.