Day 10 Trusting God’s Sovereignty in Times of Trouble A Reflection on Psalm 10

Trusting God’s Sovereignty in Times of Trouble

By Torrie Slaughter

Scripture Focus: Psalm 9:18
"But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish."

Psalm 9:13-20 is a powerful cry for justice and a declaration of God’s sovereignty over all the earth. David, facing the reality of human oppression and wickedness, turns to God as the righteous judge who sees and acts on behalf of the afflicted. This passage reminds us that in our most difficult moments, God’s faithfulness is unwavering, and His justice will prevail.

Crying Out to God in Affliction

David begins this section with a plea: “Lord, see how my enemies persecute me! Have mercy and lift me up from the gates of death” (Psalm 9:13). His prayer is raw and honest, showing us that we can bring our deepest fears and struggles to God. David doesn’t sugarcoat his emotions; instead, he lays them at the feet of the One who is both merciful and powerful.

This verse is a reminder that we are not alone in our afflictions. God is not distant or indifferent—He sees our pain, hears our cries, and is ready to act on our behalf. When we turn to Him in prayer, we are inviting His presence into our situations, trusting that His mercy and justice will ultimately bring restoration.

Trusting God’s Justice and Sovereignty

David shifts his focus in verse 16, declaring, “The Lord is known by His acts of justice; the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands.” This is a profound statement of God’s sovereignty and the assurance that no evil goes unnoticed. While we may not always see immediate justice in our world, Psalm 9 reminds us that God is actively working, both seen and unseen, to bring about His righteous purposes.

This truth gives us hope in moments of injustice or oppression. Even when it seems like the wicked prosper, God’s justice will prevail. Verses 19-20 reaffirm this with David’s plea for God to rise up and remind the nations of their place before Him. Trusting in God’s sovereignty means believing that He is in control, even when circumstances feel overwhelming.

The Hope of the Afflicted

In verse 18, David proclaims, “But God will never forget the needy; the hope of the afflicted will never perish.” This is the heart of the gospel—a God who sees the marginalized, hears the cries of the oppressed, and acts on their behalf. For believers, this verse is a call to trust in God’s unwavering faithfulness and to place our hope in His eternal promises rather than temporary solutions.

When we face trials or see suffering in the world, we can cling to the truth that God never forgets His people. Our hope is secure because it rests in the One who is faithful, just, and compassionate.

Reflection Questions

1. What afflictions or injustices are you carrying today that you need to surrender to God?

2. How does trusting in God’s justice and sovereignty give you peace, even in uncertain times?

3. How can you bring hope to someone who feels forgotten or afflicted this week?

The Bible In A Year Daily Reading Plan

Friday, January 10, 2025

Genesis 23:1-24:51, Matthew 8:1-17, Psalm 9:13-20, Proverbs 3:1-6