The question David raised in Psalm 34 is quite simple. “Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous?” [vs 12 NLT]
Most would answer “Yes!” But while it is easy to define “long,” it is not so easy to define “prosperous.” Thankfully, David did a good job of defining it in the verses that followed. “Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies! Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it.” [vs 13-14 NLT]
We must admit, however, that living that “prosperous” life is often difficult and challenging, so David follows his command with promises made by the LORD who watches over His own.
“The eyes of the Lord watch over those who do right: his ears are open to their cries for help …. The LORD hears his people when they call to him for help. He rescues them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed.” [vs 15-18 NLT]
Our LORD watches over us! He hears our cries. He rescues. His presence is with us in our joys and in our griefs. We can trust Him to be our “ever present help in times of troubles.” [Psalm 46:1 NLT]
The Scriptures repeatedly remind us of the promises of God’s help. We need to get them deep into our hearts so that when trouble abounds, we reach out immediately to the ONE who helps.