PSALM 41
As David lay sick, he looked back and recalled that he had been merciful to others and had helped the poor. This encouraged him, for he knew that God would help him (Deut. 15:1–11). God is merciful to those who show mercy to others (
Then David looked around and saw that his enemies were gossiping about him and wishing he were dead. Even his close friend turned against him. If this happens to you, keep in mind that it also happened to Jesus (John 13:18). Greater than the pain of sickness is the pain of having a treacherous “friend.”
Finally, David looked up, and that solved his problems. No matter what others might say, God was well pleased with David, and that was all that mattered. Let David’s enemies spread their gossip. God would raise him up, hold him up, and give him the light of His countenance.
Sometimes, how you feel depends on where you look.