In some seasons of life, difficulties and disappointments threaten to rob us of our joy.

In moments of solitude, we question everything we once believed and our faith begins to decay as our doubts multiply. As far as we can see, everything has come to nothing and we want to throw in the towel and call it quits. In moments like these, we must choose to have hope again.

In Psalm 31, David is in distress. His enemies seek his demise and it seems as if life has dealt him a bad hand.

Instead of giving up, he chooses to hope again. In the midst of his tears and fears, he pours out his heart to God and pleads for mercy. He knows that if he surrenders to these feelings of hopelessness, he will be defeated. And he also knows that if he turns to God in full transparency and faith, his victory is sure.

We don’t gain victory over life’s difficulties from our feelings — we gain a victory from our faith in God.

David had every right to give up, but he chose to be strong, take courage and hope again instead. If you find yourself facing difficulties, pour out your heart to God in faith so He can pour out His strength to you in love.