“Blessed is the one who considers the poor! In the day of trouble the Lord delivers him. …You set me before Your face forever.” – Psalm 41:1, 12b

Scripture reading: Psalm 41:1-13

Just nine days ago, we started this journey in Psalms. Do you remember where we are headed? David reminds us of our life’s destination: “You… set me before Your face forever” (41:12b). Psalm 41 also reminds us of our daily habits and Who it is that guarantees our success (See the introduction).

First, to arrive in God’s presence, keep relying on God by meditating daily. The blessed man who delights in God’s Word (Psalm 1) becomes the blessed man who cares for the weak and powerless (41:1). Like David, we can rely on God to be merciful to those who show mercy (Read verses 1-3).

Second, to arrive in God’s presence, we must rely on God’s Son (2:12). That’s what David does by praying (Read verses 4-10). It’s likely that David’s troubles come from Absalom’s rebellion. Nathan prophesied violence and immorality as a result of David’s sin. Perhaps that’s why David connects his plea for rescue with his confession of sin (4).

Third, to arrive in God’s presence, we must recognize God’s Son in David’s sufferings. The enemies can’t wait for David to die. In his prayer, David records their death wishes (vv. 5,8), describes their tricks (v.6), and identifies his traitors (v.9). Jesus endures these same sufferings. As Ahithophel betrayed David during Absolom’s rebellion (2Sam. 15:12; 16:20 – 17:4); so Judas betrayed Jesus (John 13:18; Lk. 22:1-6). God answered David by defeating Absolom in battle. He answered Jesus by raising Him from the dead. That’s our destination!

Suggestions for prayer

Confess your lack of prayer and care. Share your troubles with God – it’s not complaining, but trusting. Give thanks for Jesus’s suffering, betrayal and victorious resurrection with verses 11-13.

 Rev. Ken Anema currently serves as an instructor for Divine Hope Reformed Bible Seminary which is a prison discipleship ministry structured as a school. Prior to that, he pastored the Messiah’s Independent Reformed Church in Holland, MI (1993-2014) after graduating from Mid-America Reformed Seminary. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. It is also available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com.