Overcoming Despair

Ancient writings are rich with the “real life” prayers of a warrior trying to get to a better place.   David was a soldier who experienced first hand the devastating effects of some tough events in life.  He had come to a point where he felt alone and even forgotten by God. He endured hardship over a long time and nothing seemed to provide relief. He felt alone, defeated, close to death, forgotten by God, and wrestled continually with dark thoughts and carried sorrow in his heart.  From the depths of despair, he prayed “Give light to my eyes”.   

Light to the eyes is like air to the lungs. This prayer shifted the warrior's attention from despair to what strengthened his spirit.  May light fill your eyes, and David's prayer in Psalm 13 renew your body, mind, and spirit.

Psalm 13 

How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?

    How long will you hide your face from me?

How long must I wrestle with my thoughts

    and day after day have sorrow in my heart?

    How long will my enemy triumph over me?

Look on me and answer, Lord my God.

    Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death,

and my enemy will say, “I have overcome him,”

    and my foes will rejoice when I fall.

But I trust in your unfailing love;

    my heart rejoices in your salvation.

I will sing the Lord’s praise,

    for he has been good to me.