Photo Credit: Sue Oesterwind

Why do we seek the LORD and desire His deliverance in difficult times such as these? It is literally our constitution to do so. Our disposition is one of joy and gladness. When circumstances continue to spiral down into chaos, believers still find joy in reconciliation with God, secured by the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ (see 1 Peter 1.8; Philippians 4.4; 1 Thessalonians 5.16).

Our inner disposition is not only joyful but grateful. Our hope is in the LORD. He is eternal. Therefore, our hope is never ending. There is coming a day when we will truly be lost in wonder and in praise as we look into the light of His glorious grace. Yet the present inner disposition of each believer is filled with joy and gratitude. This is why we say, “Let God be magnified” (Psalm 70.4; 40.16).

Many believers are miserable and seem so distant, far from magnifying the LORD. What needs to happen in our lives when this is true? We need a flame of joy and gratitude, always burning within, rekindled.

“I am poor and needy; make haste to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O LORD, do not delay.”

1. Recognize that you are still poor and needy. The LORD delights in those who have a broken and contrite spirit. Is not His presence worthy anything we might go through in this life?
2. Recognize that your need for a joy-filled, grateful heart. Ask God for it. Make haste in your asking. Don’t pray for deliverance from the circumstance; pray for deliverance from your wrong inner disposition.
3. Recognize that only God is your help and deliverer. Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. Too often, we want relief from someone or something.