But the salvation of the righteous is of the LORD: he is their strength in the time of trouble.–Psalm 37:39
Times of trouble try the saints–they’re suppose to. The righteous are often put to the test, and for good reason. Our heavenly Father designs the affairs of our life so as to correct us, conform us, compel us, and a myriad of reasons that we know nothing about. Although these troubles can be painful, we can have peace in knowing that they serve a purpose and that God’s promises are sure–“he is their strength in time of trouble. One writer put it like this:
When he breaks up the fountains of the great deep of sin and iniquity, he strengthens his people that they may not be carried away by the flood. When he hides his face, he strengthens them to say, “Though he slays me, yet will I trust in him.” When temptation besets them severely, when they are put into the furnace, the Lord is with them there, as he was with the three men whom Nebuchadnezzar cast in. The Son of God is there with them, so that not a hair of their head is singed, nor does the smell of fire pass upon them (Dan. 3:27).
In all their afflictions he is afflicted, and by sharing it with them supports them under it. He is thus their strength; for he strengthens them with strength in their soul. He enables them to bear the weighty cross–to sustain the heavy load of trial and affliction–to put their mouth in the dust as needing and deserving his chastising strokes, and submit to his righteous dispensations and dealings as plainly sent by a gracious and loving hand.
And ever and anon he drops in a sustaining word, gives an encouraging look, bestows a soft and healing touch, and thus helps them to wait in faith and hope until in due time he sends full deliverance. Thus he helps and delivers, and will do so in every time of trouble down to their dying-bed, when he will give them their full and final deliverance from the body of sin and death, and a world full of iniquity and sorrow. (Daily Portions)
