Often, it is only when life gets tough that we begin to notice the blessings we have long overlooked. In such moments, we may even ask ourselves, “Should I have turned to God earlier and trusted him more?”

Psalm 34:12 asks:

“What man is there who desires life and loves many days, that he may see good?”

The answer is obvious, everyone wants it! We all desire to have a meaningful life filled with peace, direction, blessings, and God’s protection. But how do we find such a life?

David was at a low point in his life when he wrote this psalm, before he became king. He was on the run from King Saul and had just escaped Abimelech by feigning madness (1 Samuel 21:10-15). He had made desperate and foolish decisions. Yet, even in those dark moments, David found hope in God.

In this psalm, David shares what he learned, the secret to a life truly worth living:

Seek God in every situation (vv. 4-6) - Even amid fear and distress, David prayed, and God heard him.

Experience God's goodness firsthand (v. 8) - We truly experience His goodness when we trust him.

Fear God and do what is right (vv. 9–14) - True joy comes from living a life that is pleasing to God and fearing him.

Remember that God is near the broken-hearted (v. 18) - When we are hurt and broken, God is there for us.

Reflection

Are we chasing fleeting pleasures, or are we seeking that lasting joy that only God can give? Even amid difficult times, we can be thankful that God is teaching us, shaping us, and drawing us closer to him through these experiences.

Prayer:

Dear Father, help us to see your grace in every season. Teach us to seek you first so that we may understand that true life is a walk with you. Thank you for being with us even amid our weaknesses and difficulties. We pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.