This song written by David in dark circumstances expresses the confidence he gained by focusing on God’s Light when circumstances seemed overwhelming. In this dark time in David’s life his enemies were constantly pursuing him (v. 2 & 3) and he sometimes felt abandoned and alone (v. 4). It was a time of loneliness away from family, as well (v. 10) and he was being subjected to slander and false accusations (v.12). In the midst of his darkness, David focused upon the Light of God’s glory.
David’s confidence in the Light – Psalm 27:1 & 2
“The Lord is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear?” The Lord is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid. Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear; though war break out against me, even then will I be confident.”
He recognized that with God on his side he didn’t have to fear anything or anyone, His God was greater than them all. Focusing on the Light produced a faith and confidence in David to face his dark circumstances without fear. David understood that his ability to survive and overcome dark times was directly related to his pursuit of gazing upon the Lord’s majesty and glory and his commitment to seeking God’s presence. “For in the day of trouble He will hide me in the shelter of His tabernacle and set me high upon a Rock.” (vs. 5).
The powers of darkness are not to be feared, for the Lord our Light, destroys the darkness. The Lord is our salvation (deliverance); the Lord is the strength of our lives and because of those two truths we have confidence that He will not leave us in darkness but will bring us into the land of His goodness, life and faithful provision. (vs. 13) When I walk in the Light of His glory and presence I have confidence in the face of whatever life may hurl against me.
Activity:
Take a walk tonight in the dark. Walk the first leg of your walk without light of any kind. Turn around and walk back with a flashlight illuminating the way. Which way gave you the most confidence? Psalm 119:105 tells us “Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” God’s Word shines light upon the pathway to take us through the darkness to safety.
Make a list of issues in which your present darkness is causing you to feel overwhelmed. Beside each overwhelming thing on your list write a promise of Scripture that gives you confidence to face that circumstance.