June 9

"What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee." — Psalms 56:3.

THE circumstances under which this Psalm was penned, are of the most trying description. David fled from the fury of Saul to Gath, and there fell into the hands of the Philistines. You may read the historical account in 1 Samuel 21:10, 11. In the passage we have

A SEASON OF DISTRESS. "What time I am afraid." This was a time of fear to David—and there are periods in the history and experience of the believer when he is afraid. His fears arise from various sources.

Personal affliction. "The heart knoweth its own bitterness." How many mourn in secret, and have their silent misgivings, with which none but themselves are acquainted! Perhaps there is a long and protracted illness, a sudden reverse of circumstances, or some unexpected visitation of distress, which causes fear and trembling.

Relative trials. There is much to try us in connection with the world and mankind—in our families and social circles. How often does death snap asunder the most tender ties, and treachery betray the most sacred trust! Some have to mourn the death, and others the impiety and unconcern, of relatives.

Mental distress. Christians have not only their outward, but inward sources of fear; and these arise from the temptations of the great adversary, and the remains of corruption within. Turn from the dark to the bright side of the subject, and notice,

A SOURCE OF RELIEF. "I will trust in thee." Confidence in God is calculated to allay our fears. Look at

Its object. It is God himself. In the season of distress, you may as well attempt to rest on a straw, or be defended by a shadow, as to seek solid relief from the world. There must be confidence in his perfections, covenant, word, promises, and grace.

Its nature. How is it to be exercised? Entirely—some try to divide their confidence between God and the world; but we must rest all on him, and let no other trust intrude. Joyfully—for there is every thing in God to excite such a feeling. Continually—we must never give up our hold: "Cast not away your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward."

Its reasonableness. Who can lay a greater claim to our confidence than he in whose hands our breath is, and whose are all our ways? The character of God, the testimony of his word, and the experience of his people, all unite to show its reasonableness—death, judgment, and eternity will prove it.