My Source of Power, Courage, and Wisdom

In review of Psalm 34:17 it says, “The Lord hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles.”

Bottom Line:

When we pray for help, he listens and rescues us.

What this means to me:

He hears me when I call on him for help. He act on my behalf.

What this psalm reminds me is that God pays attention to those who call on him. Whether God offers escape from trouble or help in times of trouble, I can be certain that he always hears and acts on behalf of those who love him.

To fear the Lord means to show him deep respect, reverence, and honor. I demonstrate this attitude by humility and genuine worship. Reverence is much more than sitting quietly in church. It includes obeying God in the way I speak and the way I treat others.

There is no blanket promises that all Christians will have everything they want. But we can be assured that all those who call upon God in their need will be answered, sometimes in unexpected ways.

My God knows what I need, and my deepest needs are spiritual. David is telling me that If I have God, I have all I really need. God is enough.

Whenever I feel like I don't have everything I need, ask: (1) Is this really a need? (2) Is this really good for me? (3) Is this the best time for me to have what I desire? Even if the answer to all thress questions is yes, God may allow me to go without to help me grow more dependent on him. He may want me to learn that I need him more than having my immediate desires met.

Peace does not always come with no effort. David explained that I am to work hard in my pursuit of peace. Someone who wants peace cannot be argumentative and contentious.

In summary, God promises to be close, and to be my source of power, courage, and wisdom, helping me through my problems. Sometimes he chooses to deliver me from those problems. When trouble strikes, I should not get frustrated with God. Instead, admit that I need God's help and thank him for being by your side.