Continuing in the Psalm series this one deals with our fears.
King David is in one of the lowest points of his life so far. In 1 Samuel 21:10-15 he goes to his enemies, the Philistines, for help, and has to pretend he is a madman to escape.

At this point David is alone. Notice the sequence:
1. Troubles “many fears” [v. 4] and “troubles” [v.6]
2. Prayer “I sought the Lord” [v.4] “I called upon him”[ 6]
3. Deliverance “heard me and save me out of all my troubles:” Lord answered me; he delivered me “out
of my “troubles.”

Important point: David circumstances did not immediately change. He was still a fugitive, in danger and alone, But he was preserved for the future work he was to do and people began to gather to help.

So God may not change your situation but He will transform them by his presence and peace.

Added note 7/18 look up on the internet “Fear of God Test” by Lucy Moll.

This encouraging Psalm phrase is on my tombstone It is a favorite song my first wife who would sing and I often use it for comfort when under stress.
There is another part of this Psalm that deals with rejection in verse 10.”Though my father and mother forsake me, the Lord will receive me.” I have to deal with clients who have been rejected as a counselor often.

I am reading through the commentary by James Montgomery Boice on Psalms and on page 242-3 he points out the many sides of rejection. He has some phrases to keep in mind: We all seek acceptance, we all seek to be heard, we all seek guidance and finally we all seek protection. All may forsake you but David says “I am confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.” [v. 13] and we need to “wait for the Lord, be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.”[v.14]

David also dealt with rejections in Psalms 52, 54, and 55.

For counseling homework; I would suggest that  you to read Psalm 54. Also look up the background for the historical  passages [1 Samuel 22-23] so you can see  how these painful rejections caused him. Especially in 2 Samuel 15-17 when his trust counselor, Ahithophel,  betrayed him in favor of his son Absalom.

There is an excellent section on Rejection by Charles Stanley in his book Emotions.

Take heart, my friend, God will not forsake us ever!!!!