As I read the words of David, it felt like he was writing about the time in which we now live. David said, as troubles in his life increased, “I trust in the Lord for protection” (Psalm 11:1).  That was the foundation of David’s peace in the surrounding turmoil. He said he would not run away to the mountains for safety as the wicked were stringing their bows in preparation for an attack. His enemies were hidden planning to “shoot from the shadows at those whose hearts are right” (vs. 2).  He looked out upon his nation and said “The foundations of law and order have collapsed” (vs. 3). It was a miserable time, much like it is in America today.

As the troubles increased, David asked an important question, “What can the righteous do?” (vs. 3). His question was asked in contrast to what an unredeemed mind would declare in a time of trouble, “The world is going to hell in a handbasket!” David’s answer to that question must be the foundation of our thinking or we will process the condition of the world without the hope of God’s intervention.

David said, “But the Lord is in His holy Temple, the Lord rules from heaven. He watches everyone closely, examining every person on earth. The Lord examines both the righteous and the wicked” (vs. 4-5). The Lord is not distant from our troubles. Scripture tells us, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). We are not alone, nor is God unaware.

When the enemy of our soul surrounds us with an increasing descent into spiritual darkness, we can live and prosper in those moments when we utter two simple words, “But God!” We can make that declaration because, in everything that is happening, the good, the bad and the increasing expressions of spiritual ugliness, we can confidently say the words, “But God!” The answer David provided, was based on his trust in God of Heaven when he said, “I trust in the Lord for protection.” 

Where our trust is placed is where our hope for the future will be revealed- a hope placed firmly in God, not our circumstances. That choice will answer David’s initial question, “What can the righteous do?” We can trust in the God who sits in Heaven fully aware of all that is taking place. It is a simple, yet profound choice to make.