Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is the sustainer of my soul. (Psalm 54:4)

Just when difficulties calm down, tragedy strikes unexpectedly and sometimes repeatedly. Many people can handle one or two difficulties in life, but at times it seems the enemy of our souls relentlessly assaults and abuses, like he did Job. It is clear that Job saw his divine Maker not as his helper or the sustainer of his soul, but rather as a silent adversary. This mere man wanted God to present Himself like a man so that Job (or we) could have it out with Him. But instead, God resorted to tactics in His dealing with Job that can only be described as unfair. After all, what chance did Job or anyone have when contending with God, since He is God and we are not?

The psalmist, David, was no stranger to difficulties. To some, his life may seem charmed: at an early age he was recognized for his handsome looks and prowess in battle, whether with a lion or with Goliath (1 Sam 17:37, 50), and he was tabbed for his musical ability to serve King Saul of Israel. Yet he was the youngest of eight sons, demeaned by his older brothers, falsely accused by Saul, and even physically threatened by that insecure and possibly mentally deranged monarch who threw spears at him in unfounded rage. David fled to a cave from Saul, fearing for his life.

No, David’s life was not charmed—he had more than his share of difficulties. But he was a man who was striving after God’s heart. He learned at an early age that his Lord was trustworthy and would not fail him. Lean, lay, rest, – these are alternative suggestions for the response of one who is sustained (as inferred from the root of the Hebrew word here rendered “sustainer”). He is the One who will not only help us in a given instances of need, but sustain us for the long haul. We can lean on Him. He will support us unshakably. When He sustains us, we shall be unmovable.

Back in the day, we used to hear people say Christianity is a crutch for people who can’t make it in the world. Rather than cower before such insults to our faith, someone devised a witty response: “If faith is a crutch, then I will have as many crutches as I can get.” Only the supremely arrogant think they do not need supernatural help from Him. It is an amazingly foolish thing to say—on the order of an atheist who asserts, “There is no God” (Ps 14:1, 53:1).

But for us who believe, we do not have to face life’s difficulties alone or battle the enemy from a weak position. We have One who sustains us when we are down, tired, discouraged and ready to give up. All we need is to believe God and take Him at His Word. He is my helper and the sustainer of my soul.

Lord, sustain me now and in the coming time, for the battle is hard and long.