Psalm 61:2 From the ends of the earth I call to you,
I call as my heart grows faint;
lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

The greatest insanity of the atheist is in imagining that there is nothing greater than he is. David, on the other hand, knew better. From the rest of the Psalm it is evident that this was written after David was king, but he is still sharply aware of his own limitations. There is no indication of what troubles caused him to be emotionally exhausted, but everyone experiences that at times. What a blessing it is when in such times we know on whom to call! From his years of running from Saul in the wilderness, David knew well the tactical advantage of being on top of a big rock. Believers through the centuries have agreed with Paul that the true rock David was speaking of is Christ. (1 Corinthians 10:4) He is still available as a fortress to all who call on Him, but sadly, we are so slow to call! When David, the king of Israel, was quick to call on God, is it not only reasonable for us to do likewise?

Thankfully I was raised in an environment in which calling on God was extremely natural, but that doesn’t mean I haven’t been slow to do it at times. God has allowed me to have many experiences that were totally beyond my ability to handle. Sometimes I was quick to call on Him, but sometimes I was painfully slow. The difference has, I believe, been in my attitude before the crisis. When I walk in fellowship in the good times, the easy times, then I turn to Him almost instantly when there is a need. However, when I start walking in pride and complacency, then my first response to difficulty is to look within myself. That’s what an atheist does! Or else, perhaps, they look to their god of “science.” (Actually, when science is deified, it immediately become unscientific, but the atheist’s mindset can’t see that.) I need to look, not to myself, but to the Rock that is much higher than I am, and as a pastor, I need to lead others to do the same. One problem I have encountered there is that sometimes people look to me instead of to Christ. That won’t do them any good! I need to help them understand that any wisdom, any encouragement or comfort they receive from me does not originate in me, so that they will turn their hearts to the Source who will never fail them.

Father, thank You for Your absolute reliability. Today I’ll be attending the funeral of a faithful saint whose children have not followed You so closely. Help me point them to You, encouraging them to follow their father’s magnificent example, so that they may escape the devil’s traps and walk in all that You intend for them, for their blessing and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!