My tears have been my meat day and night, while they continually say unto me, Where is thy God? — Psalm 42:3
Have you ever found yourself in a situation like these described above? As the psalmist was writing, they were in a difficult position. They were brought to tears all day and night, so much so that it had taken away their appetite. That’s what is the meaning behind “tears have been my meat day and night.”
If you are like me, there are times when I have found myself in those positions. Life brings about situations where we are perplexed. It can be a variety of things from finances, relationships, our health, or that of our family. You find yourself in that situation and then you have that one little piece of nagging doubt. That one voice that says, “where is God?”
There are many in society that would have you believe that because you find yourself in these situations, God is not near. They want you to doubt your faith, doubt your God, and many would say that God does not care. After all, how could God let bad things happen to good people, especially those that love Him and serve Him?!
All through scripture, we see examples of good people who have bad things happen to them. Throughout our lives, we have experienced the same, seeing it with our friends, families, and perhaps even in our own lives. Bad things are going to happen. Tears are going to be shed. Life is not going to always be perfect.
That does not mean we should give up and stop trying. It does not mean that we should lose our faith in God who has proven Himself time and again. So what do we do? How do we overcome these situations and times where the doubt creeps in?
Do exactly what the psalmist does in verse 6. The psalmist tells God the exact situation. Be honest with God. Tell God that your heart is broken, tell Him that you’re struggling. But the second part is the key. Remember each and every time that God has been faithful in the past. Never once has He forsaken you.
The times around us may get tough. We may find ourselves with broken hearts and struggles, but don’t let that cause you to lose hope and faith. God is faithful. Be honest and tell Him exactly where you are. Spend time in prayer with Him and He will guide you.