Welcome to Day 2532 of Wisdom-Trek. Thank you for joining me.

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day 2532 – Wisdom Nuggets – Psalm 38:17-22 – Daily Wisdom

Wisdom-Trek Podcast Script - Day 2532 Welcome to Wisdom-Trek with Gramps! I am Guthrie Chamberlain, and we are on Day 2532 of our Trek. The Purpose of Wisdom-Trek is to create a legacy of wisdom, to seek out discernment and insights, and to boldly grow where few have chosen to grow before. In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’ll conclude our journey through Psalm 38 by focusing on verses 17 through 22 from the New Living Translation. These final verses are a heartfelt cry for deliverance as David brings his pain, his guilt, and his hope to the Lord. Psalm 38 is one of David’s most vulnerable psalms, and these closing verses offer profound lessons on humility, repentance, and unwavering trust in God’s mercy. Let’s read the passage together: Psalm 38:17-22 (NLT) 17 I am on the verge of collapse, facing constant pain. 18 But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done. 19 I have many aggressive enemies; they hate me without reason. 20 They repay me evil for good and oppose me for pursuing good. 21 Do not abandon me, O Lord. Do not stand at a distance, my God. 22 Come quickly to help me, O Lord my savior.

• The Depth of Suffering (Verse 17):

David opens this section with a raw and honest admission: “I am on the verge of collapse, facing constant pain.” His words reveal the intensity of his physical, emotional, and spiritual distress. The phrase “on the verge of collapse” conveys a sense of being completely overwhelmed, as though he has reached the limits of his endurance. This verse reminds us that there are seasons in life when we feel utterly drained, as if the weight of our struggles is too much to bear. David’s pain is not just physical—it’s deeply tied to his feelings of guilt and the opposition he faces from his enemies. Yet, even in his suffering, David turns to God, showing us that no matter how broken we feel, we can bring our pain to the Lord. Illustration: A friend once shared a story about a particularly challenging season in her life. She was caring for an ailing parent, managing a demanding job, and dealing with personal health issues. One day, after a long hospital visit, she sat in her car and wept, feeling like she couldn’t take another step. But in that moment, she prayed a simple prayer: “Lord, I can’t do this without You.” She described how God gave her the strength to carry on, one day at a time. Like David, she found that admitting her weakness and turning to God was the first step toward healing and renewal.

• A Heart of Repentance (Verse 18):

In verse 18, David transitions from describing his suffering to confessing his sins: “But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done.” This verse captures the heart of David’s prayer—his recognition of his need for forgiveness. David doesn’t try to justify or minimize his actions. Instead, he takes full responsibility, expressing genuine sorrow for his sins. Confession is a crucial part of our relationship with God. It’s an acknowledgment of our need for His grace and a step toward restoration. David’s words remind us that repentance isn’t just about saying the right words—it’s about a heartfelt recognition of our need for God’s mercy and a desire to turn away from sin. Illustration: Imagine a child who has broken a family heirloom. The child might be tempted to hide the pieces, hoping no one notices. But when the parent discovers what’s happened, the child’s confession, though difficult, opens the door to forgiveness and healing. Similarly, when we come to God with a repentant heart, He meets us with grace, ready to forgive and restore us.

• Opposition Without Cause (Verses 19-20):

David continues by describing the hostility he faces: “I have many aggressive enemies; they hate me without reason. They repay me evil for good and oppose me for pursuing good.” These verses reveal the external pressures David is dealing with—opposition from people who harbor baseless hatred against him. David’s frustration is palpable. He has tried to do what is right, yet he is met with hostility and betrayal. His enemies repay his kindness with evil and oppose him simply because he seeks to pursue goodness. This is a sobering reminder that living a godly life doesn’t guarantee that we’ll be free from opposition. In fact, doing good often provokes resistance from those who reject God’s ways. Illustration: Consider the life of Jesus. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and preached love and truth, yet He was met with hatred and opposition. His ultimate act of goodness—dying for our sins—was repaid with betrayal and crucifixion. David’s experience foreshadows the trials faced by Christ, as well as the challenges we may encounter when we strive to live righteously.

• A Plea for God’s Presence (Verses 21-22):

In the final two verses, David pours out a heartfelt plea for God’s presence and help: “Do not abandon me, O Lord. Do not stand at a distance, my God. Come quickly to help me, O Lord my savior.” These verses reveal David’s deep dependence on God. He knows that only God can rescue him from his pain and his enemies. The repetition of “Do not abandon me” and “Do not stand at a distance” underscores his desperation. David doesn’t want God to feel far away—he longs for the closeness of His presence. The final line, “Come quickly to help me, O Lord my savior,” is a beautiful expression of trust. Despite his anguish, David recognizes God as his savior, the one who will deliver him. His plea is both urgent and hopeful, reflecting a faith that God hears and answers the cries of His people. Illustration: I’m reminded of a father who once shared a story about his young daughter. She was playing in the backyard when she tripped and fell, scraping her knee. Through her tears, she called out, “Daddy, help me!” The father ran to her side, scooping her up and comforting her. David’s cry to God is much like that of the child—simple, direct, and filled with trust that his heavenly Father will come to his aid.

• Themes and Lessons for Today:

Psalm 38:17-22 offers us profound insights into the nature of suffering, repentance, and trust in God. Here are a few key themes and lessons we can take to heart:

1. Admit Your Weakness. Like David, we can bring our struggles to God, no matter how overwhelming they feel. Acknowledging our limitations opens the door for God to work in our lives.
2. Confess and Repent. True repentance involves taking responsibility for our actions and seeking God’s forgiveness with a sincere heart. When we confess our sins, we experience the freedom and peace that come from His grace.
3. Expect Opposition. Living a life of integrity and goodness doesn’t exempt us from challenges or enemies. However, we can take comfort in knowing that God is our defender.
4. Rely on God’s Presence. David’s plea for God’s closeness reminds us of the importance of staying connected to Him. In times of trouble, we can trust that God is near, ready to provide comfort and deliverance.
5. Cry Out to God. David’s cry, “Come quickly to help me,” is a reminder that we can approach God with boldness and urgency. He is our savior, and He delights in coming to our aid.

• Practical Applications:

How can we apply these truths to our daily lives? Here are a few practical steps:

• Develop a Habit of Confession. Take time each day to reflect on your actions and confess any sins to God. This practice helps maintain a healthy and honest relationship with Him.
• Trust God in Opposition. When you face resistance for doing good, remember David’s experience and Christ’s example. Lean on God’s strength to persevere.
• Seek God’s Presence. Spend time in prayer and worship, especially during difficult seasons. Invite God into your struggles and trust Him to walk with you.
• Ask for Help. Don’t be afraid to cry out to God in moments of desperation. He hears your prayers and responds with love and mercy.
• Conclusion:

As we reflect on Psalm 38:17-22, we’re reminded that even in our darkest moments, we can turn to God with honesty, repentance, and hope. David’s heartfelt cry for help shows us that God is a compassionate Father who hears and delivers His children. Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. As you go about your week, remember that no matter what you’re facing, you can bring it to God, trusting in His mercy and faithfulness. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His peace fill your heart. Reflect… If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’. Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal. As we take this Trek together, let us always:

1. Live Abundantly (Fully)
2. Love Unconditionally
3. Listen Intentionally
4. Learn Continuously
5. Lend to others Generously
6. Lead with Integrity
7. Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!  

Welcome to Day: 2532

This is Guthrie Chamberlain, Your Guide to Wisdom

Day: 2532

dom-Trek Podcast Script - Day: 2532

hamberlain, and we are on Day: 2532

In today’s Wisdom Nugget, we’ll conclude our journey through Psalm 38 by focusing on verses 17 through 22 from the New Living Translation. These final verses are a heartfelt cry for deliverance as David brings his pain, his guilt, and his hope to the Lord.

Psalm 38 is one of David’s most vulnerable psalms, and these closing verses offer profound lessons on humility, repentance, and unwavering trust in God’s mercy. Let’s read the passage together:

Psalm: 38:17

17 I am on the verge of collapse,

facing constant pain.

18 But I confess my sins;

I am deeply sorry for what I have done.

19 I have many aggressive enemies;

they hate me without reason.

20 They repay me evil for good

and oppose me for pursuing good.

21 Do not abandon me, O Lord.

Do not stand at a distance, my God.

22 Come quickly to help me,

O Lord my savior.

The Depth of Suffering (Verse 17):

David opens this section with a raw and honest admission: “I am on the verge of collapse, facing constant pain.” His words reveal the intensity of his physical, emotional, and spiritual distress. The phrase “on the verge of collapse” conveys a sense of being completely overwhelmed, as though he has reached the limits of his endurance.

This verse reminds us that there are seasons in life when we feel utterly drained, as if the weight of our struggles is too much to bear. David’s pain is not just physical—it’s deeply tied to his feelings of guilt and the opposition he faces from his enemies. Yet, even in his suffering, David turns to God, showing us that no matter how broken we feel, we can bring our pain to the Lord.

Illustration:

A friend once shared a story about a particularly challenging season in her life. She was caring for an ailing parent, managing a demanding job, and dealing with personal health issues. One day, after a long hospital visit, she sat in her car and wept, feeling like she couldn’t take another step. But in that moment, she prayed a simple prayer: “Lord, I can’t do this without You.” She described how God gave her the strength to carry on, one day at a time. Like David, she found that admitting her weakness and turning to God was the first step toward healing and renewal.

A Heart of Repentance (Verse 18):

In verse 18, David transitions from describing his suffering to confessing his sins: “But I confess my sins; I am deeply sorry for what I have done.” This verse captures the heart of David’s prayer—his recognition of his need for forgiveness. David doesn’t try to justify or minimize his actions. Instead, he takes full responsibility, expressing genuine sorrow for his sins.

Confession is a crucial part of our relationship with God. It’s an acknowledgment of our need for His grace and a step toward restoration. David’s words remind us that repentance isn’t just about saying the right words—it’s about a heartfelt recognition of our need for God’s mercy and a desire to turn away from sin.

Illustration:

Imagine a child who has broken a family heirloom. The child might be tempted to hide the pieces, hoping no one notices. But when the parent discovers what’s happened, the child’s confession, though difficult, opens the door to forgiveness and healing. Similarly, when we come to God with a repentant heart, He meets us with grace, ready to forgive and restore us.

Opposition Without Cause (Verses 19-20):

David continues by describing the hostility he faces: “I have many aggressive enemies; they hate me without reason. They repay me evil for good and oppose me for pursuing good.” These verses reveal the external pressures David is dealing with—opposition from people who harbor baseless hatred against him.

David’s frustration is palpable. He has tried to do what is right, yet he is met with hostility and betrayal. His enemies repay his kindness with evil and oppose him simply because he seeks to pursue goodness. This is a sobering reminder that living a godly life doesn’t guarantee that we’ll be free from opposition. In fact, doing good often provokes resistance from those who reject God’s ways.

Illustration:

Consider the life of Jesus. He healed the sick, fed the hungry, and preached love and truth, yet He was met with hatred and opposition. His ultimate act of goodness—dying for our sins—was repaid with betrayal and crucifixion. David’s experience foreshadows the trials faced by Christ, as well as the challenges we may encounter when we strive to live righteously.

A Plea for God’s Presence (Verses 21-22):

In the final two verses, David pours out a heartfelt plea for God’s presence and help: “Do not abandon me, O Lord. Do not stand at a distance, my God. Come quickly to help me, O Lord my savior.”

These verses reveal David’s deep dependence on God. He knows that only God can rescue him from his pain and his enemies. The repetition of “Do not abandon me” and “Do not stand at a distance” underscores his desperation. David doesn’t want God to feel far away—he longs for the closeness of His presence.

The final line, “Come quickly to help me, O Lord my savior,” is a beautiful expression of trust. Despite his anguish, David recognizes God as his savior, the one who will deliver him. His plea is both urgent and hopeful, reflecting a faith that God hears and answers the cries of His people.

Illustration:

I’m reminded of a father who once shared a story about his young daughter. She was playing in the backyard when she tripped and fell, scraping her knee. Through her tears, she called out, “Daddy, help me!” The father ran to her side, scooping her up and comforting her. David’s cry to God is much like that of the child—simple, direct, and filled with trust that his heavenly Father will come to his aid.

Themes and Lessons for Today:

Psalm: 38:17

Admit Your Weakness.

Like David, we can bring our struggles to God, no matter how overwhelming they feel. Acknowledging our limitations opens the door for God to work in our lives.

Confess and Repent.

True repentance involves taking responsibility for our actions and seeking God’s forgiveness with a sincere heart. When we confess our sins, we experience the freedom and peace that come from His grace.

Expect Opposition.

Living a life of integrity and goodness doesn’t exempt us from challenges or enemies. However, we can take comfort in knowing that God is our defender.

Rely on God’s Presence.

David’s plea for God’s closeness reminds us of the importance of staying connected to Him. In times of trouble, we can trust that God is near, ready to provide comfort and deliverance.

Cry Out to God.

David’s cry, “Come quickly to help me,” is a reminder that we can approach God with boldness and urgency. He is our savior, and He delights in coming to our aid.

Practical Applications:

How can we apply these truths to our daily lives? Here are a few practical steps:

Develop a Habit of Confession.

Take time each day to reflect on your actions and confess any sins to God. This practice helps maintain a healthy and honest relationship with Him.

Trust God in Opposition.

When you face resistance for doing good, remember David’s experience and Christ’s example. Lean on God’s strength to persevere.

Seek God’s Presence.

Spend time in prayer and worship, especially during difficult seasons. Invite God into your struggles and trust Him to walk with you.

Ask for Help.

Don’t be afraid to cry out to God in moments of desperation. He hears your prayers and responds with love and mercy.

Conclusion:

As we reflect on Psalm: 38:17

Thank you for joining me today on Wisdom-Trek. As you go about your week, remember that no matter what you’re facing, you can bring it to God, trusting in His mercy and faithfulness. Until next time, may God’s wisdom guide your steps, and may His peace fill your heart.

Reflect…

If you found this podcast insightful, subscribe and leave us a review, then encourage your friends and family to join us and come along tomorrow for another day of ‘Wisdom-Trek, Creating a Legacy.’.

Thank you so much for allowing me to be your guide, mentor, and, most importantly, I am your friend as I serve you through this Wisdom-Trek podcast and journal.

As we take this Trek together, let us always:

Live Abundantly (Fully)

Love Unconditionally

Listen Intentionally

Learn Continuously

Lend to others Generously

Lead with Integrity

Leave a Living Legacy Each Day

I am Guthrie Chamberlain….reminding you to’ Keep Moving Forward,’ ‘Enjoy your Journey,’ and ‘Create a Great Day…Everyday! See you next time for more daily wisdom!