A Little Vitamin "D"

The words of David are like health to my soul. On those dark winter mornings, void of chirping birds and a warm breeze, his ability to express the passion, fear and hope of God is rejuvenating.

"Why so downcast, Oh my soul? Put your trust in Him." Psalm 43:5

"Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me." Psalm 51:10


Of all the Patriarchs, David has to be one of my most appreciated...if not THE most. Other than dancing in my underclothes, I can relate to so many of the things he felt and did, both good and bad. Such a passionate guy. Imperfect, lacking the emotional stability earlier in his life, he focused on the heart of God and treasured it more than anything else he desired. Ruggedly handsome, having a "way" with people and driving forward with all that he did, made him a kind of man that really had the world by the tail. Those God given attributes were his triumph and his downfall, at different times. As long as he gave them over to God, he had His blessing and victory.

He loved music, food, battles and women. I'm sure he would have liked painting too, if he tried it :) His psalms reveal the internal battles that he struggled with, daily. How his heart cried out to God in times of anguish and how it bubbled over to the point of dancing in times of joy. They reveal his secret thoughts and fears, and his submission to the sovereignty of God to deal with every situation he faced. Not being the kind of guy to sit back and watch life happen, he had to embrace that four letter word...wait. He had to LEARN to wait upon the Lord and enjoy His presence and provision in the meantime.

God gave him ample opportunity to express his passions on the harp, with the sword of Goliath and with his loyal friendship with Jonathan. There is a time for everything under the sun (quoted by David's son Solomon, ironically). Here is a man who was packed solid with life, energy and zeal, learning how to tame himself, discern the will of God and use his gifts for His glory. I'm sure he had many a dreary "winter" day, stuck in a dark cave, wishing for future glory, but having to embrace that day. His words can be shared by many at this time of year. They can lift the spirit and give hope, for this day as well as the bright and cheery ones.

This is not the season of much fun in the sun, but we can have joy in the Lord any day of the year.
Eat well, exercise and think on good things...like the psalms of David. Take your vitamin "D".