Suffering often brings out the worst in us. When under affliction and stress, we may complain, curse, and treat others poorly. We may neglect our relationship with God to focus on our problems or we may even blame God for those problems.

David experienced severe afflictions. Psalm 34 is David’s response when he had to pretend to be insane before the king of Gath (1 Sa 21:10-15). God delivered him. Then David praised and glorified God. He sought God in prayer who delivered him and saved him from all his troubles. David was able to escape from the king of Gath, not by his own wits, but because God delivered him.

Then David invites his people to also experience God’s goodness in their lives. Even strong lions grow weak and hungry, but those who seek God will not lack for good things. A right relationship with God begins with fearing him. This is reflected in how we speak (13), deliberately turning from evil to good, and seeking peace (14). We are not to respond to suffering with complaints but with prayer. Christians are especially called to reflect this Christ-like behavior when we suffer (1 Pe 3:10-12). Though we may face many troubles, the LORD promises to deliver us from them all (19).
Application: Father, please forgive me for complaining about small sufferings. Help me to honor you.
One Word: Keep your tongue from evil