Where Do You Find Encouragement?

What or Whom do you turn to in order to find encouragement when you are discouraged? Have you ever waited for something so long that it seemed like it would never happen? That can be a very discouraging situation to be in. Psalm 22 is so cool to me because in the beginning, David is waiting again for God to answer his cry for help. Instead of becoming extremely discouraged, it seems as if David remembers two things. First, David remembers what God has done in the past for himself as well as for his ancestors. He remembers how God has rescued those who were in danger and how he heard the cries of those in need.
“Yet you alone are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel. Our ancestors trusted in you, and you rescued them. They cried out to you and were saved. They trusted in you and were never disgraced.” (3-5)

David knows that God is the only one who can rescue him from his enemies. God is his only source of help. “Do not stay so far from me, for trouble is near, and no one else can help me.” (11)

God hears the cries of his children and he does not ignore those who call on his name. David knows this and praises God for it! It is almost as if he is reminding himself of this as well. “For he has not ignored or belittled the suffering of the needy, he has not turned his back on them, but has listened to their cries for help. I will praise you in the great assembly. I will fulfill my vows in the presence of those who worship you.”(24-25) Wow! That is just so encouraging to me!

When David is discouraged, he looks to God – the only one who can help him - for encouragement. He looks upon the things that God has done for him and his ancestors, in the past, and he looks upon the things that God has promised to do in the future. God is David’s source of encouragement and strength. What or Whom is yours?

“… All who seek the Lord will praise him. Their hearts will rejoice with and everlasting joy.” (26)