I Sought the Lord

Psalm 34 proclaims that God delivers those who seek Him. David, fleeing from Saul, faced his greatest fear in Gath—surrounded by enemies who remembered him as the one who struck down Goliath. In desperation, David changed his behavior and appeared insane, prompting the Philistine king to dismiss him instead of taking revenge. Though 1 Samuel 21 doesn’t mention prayer or divine intervention, Psalm 34 reveals the unseen reality: David cried to the Lord, and the Lord heard him.

Scripture testifies that God works even through ordinary actions. David’s quick thinking alone did not save him; the Lord empowered his plan and softened the heart of the king. The psalm reinterprets this experience through the lens of faith: “This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him.” God responds not to the strength or eloquence of prayer, but to humility, belief, trust, and submission.

Psalm 34 also reminds believers to reflect on their own deliverance stories. When God acts, He deserves exaltation. David gathers others and says, “Magnify the Lord with me.” He boasts not in his plan, but in God’s goodness.

Scripture invites the fearful to trust the Lord, to cry out with confidence that He hears, and to recognize His presence in the ordinary. “Taste and see that the Lord is good,” David urges. Those who take refuge in Him will be blessed. The Word calls God’s people to reflect, remember, and rejoice in the God who delivers.

Sermon Date: June 9, 2025

Sermon Text: Psalm 34.1-3 ESV