When Life Throws You Lemons...

Do you ever feel like some people are out to get you? Better yet, do you ever feel like life in general is out to make you feel miserable? Sometimes, when life throws you lemons, you cannot simply "make lemonade;" all you can do is get hit by them and hope no permanent damage surfaces.

Fortunately, those "lemons" are the worst of it. David, from the Bible, was not always in the most optimistic situations. David had a son, and his son was jealous of David's position as king. So, his son tried to kill him. If there are any such lemons that hit hard, it is these type of lemons. How can one rejoice in sufferings like this? Romans 5:3 says, "...We also rejoice in our sufferings, because suffering produces perseverance." The great news is that our troubles, our "lemons," produce growth and shape us into strong men and women. The bad news? One does not normally see the good news while the bad news is current. However, through all the chaos and the pain, we can take refuge in something greater than ourselves.

Psalm 4 is all about David expressing his dependence on God. He begins chapter 4 by admitting that God is his  safe net. Furthermore, the chapter then gives any and all readers something to relate to. "You can be sure of this: The Lord set apart the godly for himself. The Lord will answer when I call to him" (Psalm 4:3). Are you considered Godly in the eyes of the Lord? Can you be certain that, as you have faithfully served the Lord, He will protect you and set you apart from the wicked and chaos?

As the storms come and you feel there is a small chance you will get out alive, know that God has already got you covered. Your level of safety far outweighs whatever you go through in this life. If you depend on God as if your life depends on it, the safety you feel will eliminate the fear you hold. Take heart, for "In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, O Lord, will keep me safe" (Psalm 4:8).