But I call to God,
and the LORD will save me.
17 Evening and morning and at noon
I utter my complaint and moan,
and he hears my voice.
18 He redeems my soul in safety
from the battle that I wage,
for many are arrayed against me.
This is Mental Health Awareness month but, unfortunately, the world is quite aware already by living with it themselves or with a suffering loved one. There exist serious chemical issues but the effects of the pandemic have had a drastic impact on the mental health of millions of people, especially children. David had his share of trials and his psalms of lament are heartrending. This one in particular could be applied to many people today. Psalm 55 speaks of anguish, terror, fear and trembling, horror and a wish to fly away to be at rest. Awareness is not enough. We need to take action. David prescribed the time honored treatment of prayer. Coupled with meditating on his word day and night, crying out to the Lord is David’s cure.
David was on to something. A recent study at Baylor University revealed that people who pray to God are less likely to experience these very symptoms in Psalm 55! A doctor told Psychcentral, “For many people, God is a source of comfort and strength.” A university study was not necessary to “discover” something written 3,000 years ago in the Bible. Many people do get comfort and strength from prayer but evidently, not nearly enough. Today, let us point someone to the strength and comfort found in trusting the Lord Jesus Christ.
Dear Lord, thank you for the strength and comfort you provide for us everyday. We pray for those suffering without that and have no hope. Help us help them. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Brad Boyer
Cape Community Church