Psalm 61 is the cry of a man seeking to be closer to the Lord. We see David’s earnest expectation that God will hear him because He has done so in the past. David knows that God does not change. He cries out in verse 1 for God to hear his cry and pay attention to his prayer. Have you ever started a prayer that way? I know I have. We find ourselves at times wondering if He’s still there, if He still listens. David continues, “I call to you from the ends of the earth…” David is seeking God. David has lived enough to know that God is all he needs. God is the only One who is always the right answer!
David’s faith in this desperation finds it’s source in God’s past actions. Verse 3, “You have been a refuge for me, a strong tower in the face of the enemy” David knows God will answer because God has already shown His faithfulness. What a great promise from God’s Word. God has been faithful to His people in the past and will continue to be faithful to them. David cries a shout of victory in verse 4, “I will live in your tent forever and take refuge under the shelter of Your wings.” Do you see the change of attitude that happens in 4 verses? David goes from crying to God and asking if He’ll pay attention – to proclaiming that He will have his refuge in God’s tent.
What is the key to this transformed attitude? Remembering that He has done this before! David knows God will be His refuge because God has shown that He will provide it for him. It’s one thing to pray something that we know we don’t need and not be surprised when we don’t get it. It’s entirely different to pray something in desperation that we have prayed before and He has already answered.
Wherever you are, crying out to God to listen and pay attention, reflect on what He has already done. Look to answers in the past as a faith builder for answers tomorrow! Our faith weakens as our memories of His work grow dim. Watch Him work today…build your faith…He’ll do it again.
A Pastor's Thoughts 