Sometimes I think, as believers, we tend to dwell a little too much on Bible verses that tell us that we will have to endure persecution and suffering of all kinds in this world. I have done this very thing myself, which is why the Lord showed me the verses above penned by the apostle Paul. Here, Paul mentions his “persecutions” and “sufferings,” but we shouldn’t miss his words saying that the Lord rescued him out of them ALL.

In Psalm 34, David the shepherd-king emphasizes God’s eagerness to rescue His devoted ones from trouble. In verse 6 (NLT), he says, “In my desperation I prayed, and the Lord listened; He saved me from all my troubles.” In the very next verse, David reveals that God is so intent on aiding His people that, “The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and he delivers them.” (v. 7 NIV) Verse 17 (NIV) in this psalm says, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their troubles.” And then David drives home his point by concluding, “The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.” (Psalm 34:19 NIV) Do you see a pattern here? David was bragging on God, just as Paul was when he wrote, “Yet the Lord rescued me from ALL of them (his persecutions and sufferings).”

My favorite translation of David’s words in Psalm 34:19 is from the Living Bible: “The good man does not escape all troubles – he has them too. But the Lord helps him in each and every one.” How does the Lord help us in our trials? He gives us wisdom to know what to do in our situation, so that we don’t have to suffer one more moment than is absolutely necessary. He gives us the strength and patience to respond to our trials correctly, so that we won’t have to reap the penalty of a wrong response. He comforts, reassures, and encourages us, so that we don’t lose heart or lose hope. He grants us His discernible presence, so we never feel alone. And He makes sure that we benefit and profit from every difficulty that comes our way.

If you are in a trial right now, my prayer is that you will take great comfort in the Savior’s words to you today: “In the world you have tribulation and distress and suffering, but be courageous [be confident, be undaunted, be filled with joy]; I have overcome the world. [My conquest is accomplished, My victory abiding]!” (John 16:33 AMP)

Prayer: Lord, when trouble strikes, help me to turn to You first. Give me the wisdom and strength I need to respond in a Christlike manner. Grant me Your comfort, reassurance, and healing, as well as Your discernible presence. Remind me that You are committed to causing every difficulty to profit me somehow. (Romans 8:28) Thank You that as I cooperate with Your divine rescue operation, I will overcome and be victorious for Your glory!