The Darling Psalmist – by Anna Darlene Edmondson
“Speak to one another is psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, offering praise with voices and making melody with all your heart to the Lord” (Ephesians 5:19 Amp).
Somewhere between Robin Hood, John Wayne, and 007, I discovered the good-guys- win theory. Matter of fact, it may work. Or not. However, lots of movies teach ‘happily-ever-after.’ Keeping it real though, daily living in an un-fairy-tale world brings loads of suffering heartaches. Maybe that’s why ‘reality TV’ ratings soar.
At times, we draw a sense of comfort and comradeship watching or hearing about others with problems similar to our own. Knowing we’re not alone actually produces healthy wellbeing. The Book of Psalms is important to us because it explores a full range of human experiences that adds to the popularity and most widely used book in the Bible.
Truth is: life’s hard, even for a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22). David distinguished himself as the sweet psalmist of Israel and knew if someone harmed him, they touched the ‘apple of God’s eye.’
Storms of passion and praise for the Living God gave David great heart-satisfaction. This poetic genius learned how to live in two worlds at the same time as he penned the beloved 23rd Psalm. Enduring unbearable hardships, the fugitive-hero walked unafraid through the valley of death’s shadow. He knew terrible extremities served only to catapult him into safe hiding places.
All of that to say this: David was an ordinary man who sinned and needed forgiveness, mercy, and guidance. Just like us. Even Jesus reached for them (Psalms) during His darkest hour, “My God, My God why has thou forsaken me?”
Darlene is an active freelance Christian Writer. She loves to write devotionals. Contact
