David faced much adversity throughout his life. He faced adversity from King Saul, from his own son Absalom, and even adversity from within his own heart. Like David, you and I face adversity, but as it is often said, “It is not what happens to you that matters as much as how you respond.” There are some things that occur in our lives that seem impossible to overcome. You may look at your own circumstances and see nothing but a huge obstacle, which may cause you to lose hope.

Remember David, who passed through many valleys throughout his life. In Psalm 31, recounting one of those valley experiences, David would remind us where to turn to find hope and help. He would say, “In You, O Lord, I put my trust; let me never be ashamed; deliver me in Your righteousness. Bow down Your ear to me, deliver me speedily; be my rock of refuge, a fortress of defense to save me” (Ps. 31:1–2).

Like David, we must remember that the Lord knows every trouble we might be passing through (v. 7). He is a God of mercy who cares for our entire person. Notice that David mentions that his God cares for his spirit, soul, and body (vv. 5, 7, 9). He understands the grief and anguish we pass through and is able to supply the strength we need for whatever circumstance. While all others may forget us (v. 12), David reminds us that our times are in His hand and that He provides deliverance (v. 15). As we look to Him and trust Him, He causes His face to shine upon us (v. 16). When we cry out to the Lord, He will turn our sorrows into joy and give us something to share with others: “Oh, love the Lord, all you His saints!” (v. 24).