Day 238 God Comforts in Affliction

God Comforts in Affliction

by Torrie Slaughter

Psalm 40:11–17

Have you ever been in a pit so deep it felt impossible to climb out? David knew that place well—surrounded by enemies, weighed down by guilt, and desperate for God’s help.

“Do not withhold your mercy from me, Lord; may your love and faithfulness always protect me. For troubles without number surround me; my sins have overtaken me… my heart fails within me.” (vv.11–12)

David doesn’t hide his pain. He lays it bare—his troubles, his sins, his weakness. That honesty is where comfort begins, because God never despises a heart that cries out for mercy.

From plea to petition, David pleads: “Be pleased to save me, Lord; come quickly to help me.” (v.13) There’s urgency in his voice—we’ve prayed those prayers too. And then he turns toward hope: “May all who seek you rejoice… You are my help and my deliverer; you are my God, do not delay.” (vv.16–17)

Here’s the shift: his circumstances hadn’t changed, but his focus did. In the middle of affliction, David’s comfort wasn’t in escape but in God’s unchanging love.

Verdict 2: God comforts in affliction. His mercy surrounds you when sin overwhelms, His faithfulness protects when enemies threaten, and His presence is your present help.