When the Lord led me to study the above verse in-depth, I was amazed at how many truths were packed inside these words of David the psalmist-king. Here, David is saying that there is a God. That He is a good God. And that He is MY (David's) God. David is bragging on his God, and he's doing it in the hope that those who are listening will "hear" and "rejoice."

David is focusing on "the afflicted" in his audience because he knows that they are much more likely to be receptive to his testimony than those who are arrogant, self-sufficient, and free from troubles. David's intent is to cause these humble people to rejoice and be glad in his joyful testimony about his experience with his God - and to be moved to get to know this God for themselves.

This is the incomparable power of personal testimony. One reason why the Lord encourages us to seek Him in our day of trouble is so that we can experience His saving power for ourselves, and then turn around and encourage others to also put their trust in God - and to experience for themselves the divine deliverance.

The best part of all this is that we don't need a degree in theology to give our personal testimony. All we have to do is to share with others what Jesus has done for us. The Holy Spirit will do the rest. Within your circle of influence, God has put people who are just waiting to hear about the impact He has made on your life. Ask the Lord who they are. Pray that the Holy Spirit will give you the right words at the right time.

Jesus told one man who had experienced His transforming power - "Go home to your family and friends. Tell them about all that the Lord did for you. Tell them how the Lord was good to you." (Mark 5:19 ERV) Amen and amen!

Prayer: Lord, teach me how to seek You in my day of trouble, so that I can experience Your saving power for myself. Anoint and equip me by Your Spirit to share with others how You have worked in my life, so that they will be encouraged to turn to You. Thank You that as I share my personal testimony, You will draw others to Yourself for all eternity through me!