FOOD FOR THE SPIRIT--The Lord is My Rock

I have been reading in Psalms this week. I have always loved the psalms and have often wondered about the trials that compelled David to write with such passion and conviction. Tonight as I read Psalm 18, I was actually moved to tears by its beauty and authenticity.

"I will love thee, O Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower" (Psalms 18:1-2).

Verses six through 15 describe natural disasters, storms and general adversity that have plagued the people. I am almost positive that David is also describing his trials and sorrows figuratively here. Then in verse 16, he describes his deliverance beautifully:

"He sent from above, he took me, he drew me out of many waters."

I have felt this same way many times, as God has shown mercy to me in adversity. I think that this verse can definitely be applied to those who find themselves immersed in the "'waters" of any type of addiciton. The next verse also applies:

"He delivered me from my strong enem[ies]. . . for they were too strong for me."

Anyone who has dealt with the strangling hold of addiction will surely acknowledge that these trials at times, truly become "too strong" to handle on our own. Thank goodness the Savior has been commissioned to deliver us from ourselves, and our worst vices.

Verse 19 is the one that brought tears to my eyes: ". . . he delivered me, because he delighted in me." I LOVE THAT!!! I am so filled with return love when I read that, despite all my imperfections, He still delights in me. I am his child! Again, I must admit, that I am touched so deeply as the implications of this simple statement sink in.

I do not have to overcome my bad habits alone. I need to recognize that at times, my temptations ARE stronger than me. I NEED my Savior, for without Him, I cannot do this. Only He can deliver me out of the "waters" of addiction and adversity. And if I am righteous, and turn to Him in my need, he WILL deliver me because He delights in me.