King David, wrote:

“For the enemy has pursued my soul; he has crushed my life to the ground; he has made me sit in darkness like those long dead. Therefore my spirit faints within me; my heart within me is appalled. I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that you have done; I ponder the work of your hands. I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land” (Psalm 143:3-6).

The Christian life is not always one of emotional joy. There are times when we can descend into the depths of depression, be overcome by circumstances, or succumb to grief. We don’t always walk around with a smile on our face. This life often includes pain. So, how should we respond when life deals with us harshly? David provides some answers in Psalm 143.

David endured persecution from the members of his own family. His son, Absalom, sought to over throw his father and annoint himself as king. Early on, while serving King Saul, David’s life was threatened by the very king he served. Because of his sin with Bathsheba, the son born out of this adulterous union died. David was acquainted with sorrow.

The advice David gives is “remember the days of old.” Think back on God’s faithfulness to you. Let your thoughts dwell on all the things God has done. Which is harder for God; seeing you through tough circumstances or delivering you from hell? God is all powerful (omnipotent), so nothing is too difficult for Him. However, from our perspective the greater deed was in the forgiveness of our sins. If God can forgive our sins, can he not see us through the worst of circumstances?

When we feel like we’re at the end of our rope, that is precisely when we need to contemplate the faithfulness of God.  We need to turn our heart towards Him regardless of how we feel.