Psalm 41

“Have mercy on me, Lord” (4). The psalmist took refuge in the Lord when he was struck down with illness and, in addition, those around him attempted to make his situation worse (5-9). The psalmist’s enemies spoke of his “vile disease” (8) and tried to provoke feelings of shame, despair, and hopelessness. Even someone he trusted turned against him during his illness (9). But God’s faithful support and kindness gave him strength to withstand the attacks (1-3). “My enemy does not triumph over me” (11).

“You uphold me and set me in your presence forever” (12). God meets us in our human experiences of sickness and weakness. Rather than allowing difficult times to crush us, he wants to reveal his kindness.