Daily Devotional: A Refreshing Vision

There is great power in the presence of the Lord. He can lift our spirits even during the most difficult trials.

Psalm 69:29-30

“But I am poor and sorrowful: let thy salvation, O God, set me up on high. I will praise the name of God with a song, and will magnify him with thanksgiving.”

The psalm begins with David crying out to the Lord for deliverance. As he poured out his heart in prayer, he received a vision (v. 19-28). He saw Christ afflicted, suffering alone because He has been smitten by God; no one showed compassion to Christ. The people would not even take care of His basic needs, giving him gall (bile) and vinegar to drink.

How did David respond to this vision of suffering? He burst into praise towards God. He admitted his wretched condition but nonetheless appealed to God’s salvation for deliverance. David determined in his heart to not be like those who mock God’s afflicted but instead maintained an attitude of reverence and delight in God. Why did David make this choice? He saw hope in God. He saw salvation through Christ. He saw deliverance for Israel through the covenant God made.
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David, burdened with his life, received hope and encouragement through a vision of Christ. Can not we, who are filled with the Holy Ghost, received even stronger encouragement in our trials? When we suffer, if we can but catch a glimpse of the risen Savior, how easy it is to bear our burdens! Eternity reminds us that this suffering is only temporary, that God will one day rule in righteousness, and so we can have peace about all the troubles of life knowing that Christ died for us and will one day rectify every wrong deed. One glimpse of His beauty and righteousness can bring unspeakable joy and peace no matter life’s circumstance.

• Reflection: Have you ever been refreshed by the presence of God in the midst of a difficulty? Leave a comment below to share how God is transforming your life.