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Today’s readings from Psalms 3–4, 12–13, 28, and 55 reminded me that God is the champion of those walking through seasons of relational difficulty—especially when it feels like others, even fellow believers, are against you.

There were times early in my walk with Christ when I felt surrounded—when it seemed that people or circumstances were working against me. Whether that was truly the case or simply how it felt, I remember crying out to God as David did. He was my refuge then, and He remains my Rock now. Even in seasons of peace, I’m reminded that the same God who heard my cries in distress is still near, steady, and faithful.

I remember one situation early on in ministry when a parishioner responded to me in anger. This was someone who held all the power in our relationship—there was nothing I could do. Without connecting my situation to Psalm 4:4 I followed David’s counsel,

“Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent.”

I spent many sleepless nights thinking and praying—honestly wishing the Lord would remove that person from my life. But in the end, God transformed the individual and taught me a vital lesson: my ways are not His ways, and His are always better.

Now I live with the assurance that God has my back and responds to those who have placed their faith in Him. Psalm 4:7 has become my reality:

“You have put more joy in my heart than they have when grain and wine abound.”

Remember, God is not distant in your time of distress. As He says in Psalm 12:5b:

“I will place him in the safety for which he longs.”

When life feels difficult and you are weighed down by what seem like attacks, cry out to the Lord. He loves you and will never leave you abandoned. Let Psalm 28:6 be the thought you have as you reflect back and realize how He has brought you through,

“Blessed be the Lord! For He has heard the voice of my pleas for mercy.”

If your heart is troubled heart today, claim the promise of Psalm 55:22,

“Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you; He will never permit the righteous to be moved.”

Takeaway: God doesn’t promise a life without conflict, but He does promise His faithful presence in the midst of it. When relationships feel strained or opposition rises, let prayer be your first response—not retaliation. The Lord hears, sustains, and restores those who trust in Him.