The Low Point

He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand.

Psalm 40:2

Sometimes the low point can come out of nowhere. It might be a sudden, radical change in what we thought life was going to be like. We are so surprised that we do not know where to turn. Other times, the change is a gradual decent into paralysis. We knew we weren’t doing well, but we thought we had a handle on things. Then before we realize it, we hit such a dark and difficult time, we truly believe it can’t get any worse.

Then God shows up and rescues us.

Psalm 40:1–5 records a low point of David’s life when he cried out to the Lord who rescued him. It is not clear exactly when David wrote this psalm because his life was full of dark moments. Regardless, David remembers that God brought him up from “the slimy pit” and “the mud and mire.” The imagery of God reaching down and lifting David out of the pit and setting him on the rocks above is riveting. David then says that because of his rescue, he is able to sing again.

If we struggle with depression or despondency, we know that our pits may not be a one-time thing. Psalm 40 starting at verse 11 records David’s request for continued help because he knows there will be other times when he is in the pit. Just like David, we can remember what God has done for us in the past and at our next low point remind ourselves that God is the one who rescues us from the pits.

God takes care of his own. He knows our needs. He anticipates our crises. He is moved by our weaknesses. He stands ready to come to our rescue. And at just the right moment, he steps in and proves Himself as our faithful heavenly Father.

Chuck Swindoll

God is on the move to rescue people from misery to everlasting happiness, which can only be found in him.

John Piper

God does not stop at rescuing us; the purpose of that rescue is to enjoy fellowship with us.

A. W. Tozer

For Further Reflection

Psalm 82:3–4; Psalm 17:6; Psalm 18:2

Today’s Prayer

Lord, thank you for meeting me where I am. Thank you that I am never out of your reach. Please help me to remember that you always hear my cry. Amen.