What does Psalm 13:2 mean?
Crying out in frustration and confusion (Psalm 13:1), David expresses three concerns to God. This is a natural human emotion, one which God understands (Psalm 73:2–3; Habakkuk 1:2–4; Hebrews 4:15–16).First, David is concerned about the pressure to find a resolution to his dilemma. He feels inadequate to solve the problems he faces. The phrase "take counsel in my soul" is meant to imply David's innermost thoughts and mind. Because the Lord seems to be absent, David feels compelled to make plans on his own.
Second, David is suffering from sorrow. Feeling abandoned by God, he struggles all day with turmoil in his heart. As his struggles continue, with no end in sight, David is tempted to fear that they will never be resolved. His concern is not merely being pressured to make the right decisions, but the emotional toll his situation is taking.
Third, David is fearful over his enemy's apparent triumph over him. Since God has not yet brought a resolution, David is tempted to think there might not be victory, at all.
When troubles strike, it is easy to believe the Lord has abandoned us. But He has promised to be with us always (Hebrews 13:5). He shepherds us not only in green pastures but also when we traverse the valley of the shadow of death (Psalm 23). If we focus on our troubles instead of on the Lord, we will feel great sadness. However, if we focus on the Lord, we will experience joy despite difficult circumstances (Philippians 4:4). Our enemy may seem to triumph over us, but "we are more than conquerors through him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). David places his trust in God; he is grounded in faith, despite these temporary struggles (Psalm 13:5–6).
