Faith in a time of great Stress

 Read Psalm 6. 

David's prayer in song was "how long?"  How long will he have to endure the pain and suffering?  His distress went beyond physical discomfort, "My soul is also greatly troubled." (v.3)  Indeed, he blamed it on some "workers of evil" (v.8), "foes" (v.7), harassing people who had pushed him beyond his limit. 

Even when he tried to rest and get some sleep, all he could do was cry. 

His request of God was to deliver him so he could continue to give God praise in this life.  Dead men cannot do this (v.5). 

While those were his feelings, this song is one of resolute faith!

In those dark hours, here is what he believed. 

1. God takes notice our personal problems.

"The LORD has heard my plea."

1 Peter 3:12-"The eyes of the Lord are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayer." 

2. God personally takes hold and receives our requests.

"The LORD accepts my prayer."

This is much more than merely hearing our prayers.  When the father of a dying daughter came to Jesus with his request, Jesus told him, "Do not fear, only believe." (Mark 5:36) 

3. The LORD personally takes care of us.

Psalm 46:1-"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Therefore we will not fear..."