Tuesday, November 8 – Psalm 62:1-2

My soul waits in silence for God alone; From Him comes my salvation. He alone is my rock and my salvation, My stronghold; I will not be greatly shaken.

When we get stressed or overwhelmed, many of us turn to coping mechanisms to distract us or numb the pain we feel. Children cope by letting their hurt be known through crying, exclamation, and running to an adult who can help. Over time, our coping looks different as we try to become more self-sufficient or hide our struggles from others. We look for things to help us feel better or forget about our pain, but all coping mechanisms fall short eventually. We can never truly check out or suppress our struggle forever. We are broken vessels in need of a Savior.

In today’s passage, the psalmist did not look for just anything to cope with his struggle. He said, “My soul waits . . . for God alone.” He knew exactly what could satisfy, and he would not settle for the counterfeit even if there was a quick fix to make him feel better for the moment. Like children in times of need, we can cry out to God and be honest about where we are. We can run to Him, knowing He is able to meet our needs, and He knows this world far greater than we do. This can feel difficult when we don’t get a quick answer, but we can wait for Him, knowing He sees us, and we are secure in His hands.

• What are some things you turn to when you are stressed or overwhelmed?
• When have you looked to God as your stronghold? What was that like?
• Pray and speak to God about some of the struggles you are experiencing. Be honest with Him about the ways you have tried to cope on your own.