“When I am overwhelmed, you alone know the way I should turn.” Psalm 142:3 (NLT)
Merriam-Webster defines overwhelm as ‘to overpower in thought or feeling.’ It’s the emotion that comes over us when we perceive an external force as greater than the strength we have within. Circumstances lead us to believe that our troubles are so immense and powerful that they will overcome and overpower us.
In Psalm 142, David faces a formidable challenge. Not only is he hiding from the Philistines, who perceive him as a threat, but he is also fleeing from King Saul. With so many people seeking to end his life, David flees to the cave of Adullam, where he pours out his heart to God. His faith is not misplaced, for God miraculously delivers David from his enemies.
When we look at our circumstances, we can quickly feel overwhelmed. How are we going to pay the bills? Where is this relationship headed? Will I ever be rid of this pain on this side of heaven? Who’s going to take care of the kids when I’m gone?
One of the definitions for the Hebrew word ‘overwhelmed’ is ‘to clothe or to shroud.’ That’s precisely how we feel when our challenges seem far greater than our capacity to cope, doesn’t it? We feel shrouded in darkness. Because our focus is on the cave rather than the One who will ultimately bring us victorious from the cave.
It’s important to note that David didn’t gloss over his cave moment. He is honest with his emotions. Verse 6 reads, “Hear my cry, for I have been brought very low (overwhelmed and cast down). Rescue me from my persecutors, for they are too strong for me.” In that cave, David admitted to feeling overcome — by his emotions, by his circumstances, by his enemies — a far cry from the David who confronted Goliath.
When life overwhelms us, it’s important to be honest about our thoughts and feelings. Following Christ doesn’t mean we don’t have ‘cave moments.’ But we don’t let those ‘cave moments’ win. They may refine us, but they won’t define us.
Ultimately, God brought David safely out of the cave. Trust me, He will do the same for you in due time.