For my daily devotionals in the Bible I (Erick) have been reading through “The Active Word Daily Devotional” by Pastor Bob Coy.

Recently, I have been in the Psalms. One thing that has been very evident to me is David’s desperate need for the Lord. He displays such a raw side to his faith and relationship with God that it is very clear that he is always in need of God.

In chapter 21 we see something unique. Chapter 21 is entitled in the ESV “The King Rejoices in the Lord’s Strength”. This struck me as significant because we are hearing from David not as a servant, songwriter or shepherd; but as King David.

Pastor Coy points out: “Notice, however, that even though David has become King at this point, he still declares his trust in the Lord. His title in life has changed, but his guiding principle hadn’t. The very feature that distinguished David through every season of his life and propelled him forward was still strong inside him. He was still determined to be absolutely dependent on God.”

This came to the forefront of my mind because I find myself on my knees when the chips are down. When I desperately find myself needing God’s strength are the times when I am at a loss, when I’m down, when it seems hopeless. But when I’m at the top, when I’ve arrived, I’m not always on my knees seeking God’s strength.

The thing is, it was and is God’s strength that gets me to where I am, and I will always need God’s strength. Even someone as mighty as King David, who had been through a lot by the time he was made king. Who had seen success, after success, after success, still knew he needed God’s strength. It was well within his social “right” to believe that it was by his power and by his strength that he was where he was. He was king. But he knew where his strength truly came from. He knew that without God’s continual strength, he was nothing. Without a strong and true relationship with God, he was just a man, not the man of God we know David to be.

When things go well these next few weeks. When you really hit your stride. Pause for a few moments. Ask for God’s strength, and praise Him for the strength He gave you to get you to where you are. For with God’s strength and wisdom, we can accomplish much that the Lord has prepared for us.

“He asked life of you; you gave it to him, length of days forever and ever. His glory is great through your salvation; splendor and majesty you bestow on him. For you make him more blessed forever; your make him glad with the joy of your presence.” Psalm 21:4-6