Looking Forward to Morning

When we are young, every difficulty, every setback, and every obstacle seems practically insurmountable. Whether challenges in education, starting a job, or dealing with the stress that responsibility brings, we sometimes find ourselves wondering if we can endure these hardships. However, after some time passes and the anxiety fades, we find ourselves in far more pleasant circumstances, reflecting on these problems with the wisdom that experience alone can bring. In the heat of the moment, it does not seem possible that perspective and growth can emerge from severe trials or even dire emergencies, and yet this truth permeates both life and scripture.

Once David had established himself in Jerusalem, placing the years of fleeing from Saul, living on the run, and fighting a civil war behind him, he stopped to reflect and acknowledge God’s hand in his life. The LORD had promised him that he would reign, and now, after years of turmoil, David had arrived at the promised moment. Thus, it was fitting that he would praise God for delivering him through all of those trying times to be able to enjoy the benefits of faithful endurance (Psa. 30:1-4). He acknowledged that he had allowed his pride to get to him when times were good and therefore had learned through tribulation the need for steadfastness, patience, and courage (Psa. 30:6-10). However, David’s perspective in this moment of peace offers the reminder that we all need. Whether we fret about the moral decline of society, the situation in the church, or our own life’s challenges, it is essential that we remember this simple truth about God: “His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, But joy comes in the morning” (Psa. 30:5). The problems we face are real and undeniable, and they will bring sadness and pain, but joy comes in the morning. What a beautiful phrase! The next day offers hope because God can change our circumstances for the better. This seems like such a simple thought, and yet people struggle with it mightily. Our fears and anxieties get the best of us when under pressure, and we become stressed over what will happen next. When we are in the middle of trying times, it can be difficult to imagine happiness around the corner because we are trying to prepare for the possibility of something worse. However, this is what makes the joy of a relationship with God so powerful. No matter what may happen in this life, we can move forward with confidence that rejoicing awaits us. In the end, we will be able to rejoice and say, “You have turned for me my mourning into dancing; You have put off my sackcloth and clothed me with gladness” (Psa. 30:11). Therefore, this knowledge should affect our attitude, our life, and our behavior today, filling our lives with worship and thanksgiving to God. This is how we should learn to think, to hope, and to live: “To the end that my glory may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever” (Psa. 30:12). This day, and every day, we can open our eyes with hope and close our eyes in the evening with peace, looking forward to morning.