It shall end in praise

Introduction
PSALM 13 is the prayer of a man reaping what he sowed. The lamentation of King David here was the consequence of his adultery with Bathsheba and the murder of Uriah, her husband. David while going though his punishment cried out, how long? There is no doubt we all are crying in the same way, how long shall we go though our shutdown/lockdown/ social distance as a result of the invisible warfare with corona virus. May the Lord have mercy on us. Amen.
(A)The Pain-How Long-vs1-2.

How long was the cry of David. He asked God how long,
• Will You forget me?
• Will You look the other way?
• Will I struggle with anguish in my soul and sorrow in the heart?
• Will my enemy have the upper hand?

The answer is that God does not desert His people. But His people could feel deserted as long as they continue to live in sin. Sin is the only thing that separates us from God though nothing can separate us from His love. So, the only way to reduce the length of the pain is to reduce the strength of sin by way of genuine repentance. So I believe when we are saying how long will you forget us, God is saying how soon will you return back unto me. Let us return back to God. (Lam. 3:40)
(B) The Three Petitions-vs3-4

King David during his pains made three petitions to the Lord namely,
• Turn and answer me.
• Restore the sparkle to my eyes.
• Do not let the enemies gloat/rejoice.

This was a plea for response, restoration and rebuff of the enemy. As we also make these requests at this critical time, may the Lord answer us. Amen.
(C) The Praise-vs 5-6.

David concluded this Psalm with praise because he trusted in the Lord’s unfailing love. In spite of his anguish, He could still rejoice because the Lord who had rescued him in the past will still rescue him. He will therefore sing praises to the Lord who has been good to him.

Conclusion: As we all continue to trust God for his response, restoration and rebuff of the enemy, let us give God His praise for this crisis shall surely pass and end in praise. Let us give God His praise at such a time as this. Here lies the secret of our victory. The believer can praise God not just because of present circumstances but due to past goodness of God and our trust in a better future. It shall definitely end in praise. Amen.
Rev. Dr. Israel Kristilere, Shepherdhill Baptist Church, (Sanctuary of Grace & Glory), Baptist Academy Compound,
Obanikoro, Lagos.
Whatsapp:2348033052590.
Email:revkristilere@yahoo.com