I heard someone say years ago that real trust in God always involves unanswered questions. It reminds me of a Scripture that says, "I trusted in the Lord when I said, 'I am greatly afflicted.'" (Psalm 116:10 NIV) One translation says, "I continued believing even when I said, 'I am completely ruined!'" (ERV) How could King David make such a bold and confident declaration in the midst of the darkest times? Because he was the same man who declared, "Many hardships and perplexing circumstances confront the righteous, but the Lord rescues him from them ALL." (Psalm 34:19 AMP) David truly believed that God would deliver him from ALL of his troubles. He also believed that God would deliver him from ALL of his troubles right here on this earth. This is most evident in his statement in Psalm 27:13 (NLT): "Yet I am confident I will see the LORD's goodness while I am here in the land of the living." No wonder God called him "a man after My own heart." (Acts 13:22)

I love how the Passion Translation states: "Even when it seems I'm surrounded by many liars and my own fears, and though I'm hurting in my suffering and trauma, I still stay faithful to God and speak words of faith." (Psalm 116:10-11) David made up his mind that in the midst of rejection, betrayal, disease, calamity, and pain, he would stay faithful to the Lord, and continue to declare words of faith. One of the most powerful things we can do while we are going through trials is to pray and proclaim God's promises for our situation. As I wait on the Lord for my healing today, I am continually declaring, "I shall be whole!" (Mark 5:28 KJV) In this way, I am affirming God's faithfulness to His Word, and my unwavering faith in Him.

Scripture says: "By faith Sarah herself also received strength to conceive seed, and she bore a child when she was past the age, because she judged Him faithful who had promised." (Hebrews 11:11 NKJV) Once, when I was faced with a serious situation, the Holy Spirit showed me this verse, and He instructed me to continually say, "I judge You faithful, Lord!" All of a sudden, I realized that if Abraham's wife could get her miracle by judging God faithful to His promises, then so could I. And so can you!

Psalm 27 ends with a plea from David: "Here's what I've learned through it all: Don't give up; don't be impatient; be entwined as one with the Lord. Be brave and courageous, and NEVER lose hope. Yes, keep on waiting - for He will never disappoint you!" (Psalm 27:14 TPT)

Prayer: Lord, when I am going through difficulties and trials, help me to keep my eyes on You and Your promises. Show me how to draw close to You daily, and how to cling to You in the midst of my troubles. Teach me how to remain faithful to You, and to continually speak words of faith, instead of doubt. Thank You that I WILL see Your goodness and blessings in this land of the living!