BS’D
A common theme in Sefer Tehillim is Dovid HaMelech’s ability to sing a song of praise to Hashem when facing struggles. This is particularly remarkable because he sings praises before he experiences the yeshua (redemption); he praises in anticipation of Hashem’s future salvation. When crises arise to test our emuna, we can emulate Dovid HaMelech in his confidence of Hashem’s kindness.
Jewish history teaches that turning to Hashem in a situation of need helps us internalize the Emet that everything is under Hashem’s control. Hashem has brought about our redemption in the past, so we can find strength and emuna to face present challenges. When looking back at Hashem’s ‘track record’ so to speak, we learn to rely on Him in the future.
Dovid HaMelech speaks to Hashem with complete emuna that Hashem is listening; confident of being heard.
This does not come naturally. In fact a major obstacle in many lives is fear of rejection; maybe Hashem has forgotten us. When the challenging situation continues despite our pleas to Hashem to the contrary, we may feel Hashem is ignoring us, chas v’Shalom.
Dovid HaMelech writes, “Ad ana Hashem tishkacheni netzach, ad ana tasteer et panecha meeminee” (How long Hashem will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?). The eyes of Dovid HaMelech are drenched in pain, “…Ha’eera einai pen ishan hamavet (…Enlighten my eyes lest I sleep the sleep of death).
Yet, despite the depth of pain, Dovid’s singing and emuna remains strong. Like Dovid, we trust that Hashem hears us, and is there for us. Despite present suffering, we can then look into a future bright with joy and hope. As Dovid writes, “Ve’ani b’chasdecha batachti yagel libi b’yeshuatecha… ” (But I trusted in Your loving-kindness, my heart will rejoice in Your salvation…).