“My soul is in deep anguish. How long, Lord, how long? 4 Turn, Lord, and deliver me; save me because of your unfailing love.”
- Psalm 6:3 -

Have you experienced the pain of verse 2, or prayed the cry of verse 3, or even been through the kind of night described in verse 6? The writer’s opening plea reveals a concern about God’s discipline. This is a vital theme of Scripture, but not a popular one. Discipline is a sign of parental love. When God disciplines us, he is treating us as his children...No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace in due course.

It is right that the psalm does not attempt to whitewash the anguish of God’s people when they undergo suffering. Here the writer pleads with God, complains to God, and weeps before God. This is lament at its deepest and darkest. Thankfully, it leads on to hope and encouragement. ‘The Lord has heard my cry for mercy; the Lord accepts my prayer’ (v 9).

Psalmist's plea for salvation is based on God’s character, not his own (vs 8,9). It is God’s unfailing love that carries him through these appalling circumstances. May it carry you through today.

Apply

Psalm 136 repeats the phrase ‘His love endures forever’ in all 26 verses. Read it and be encouraged that God’s love is our guarantee of salvation. Give thanks.

Prayer: Loving Lord, you hear me when I struggle. Thank you for your touch that assures me of your presence.

(From Encounter with God)