These words were written within one of King David’s urgent prayers for help. A good portion of David’s life was spent fleeing for his life or in battle. In this short psalm (five verses), he asks the Lord to come quickly to help him. He also expresses his vulnerability and need of God. In the midst of this, he does not forget to praise God.

It’s easy to praise God in the good times -- when we’re winning, when the accolades keep coming, when everything just seems to be going well. But, athlete, do you praise God in the hard times? Do you exalt His name even in the midst of confusion?

This verse is a great prayer for followers of Christ everywhere. First and foremost, we must seek God. Let those of us who seek God “rejoice and be glad” in Him. As we compete, let us display God and all His glory!

Prayer to consider today: Lord, help me to rejoice and be glad in You in all I do. As I compete, let me display Your gifts. As I speak, let me glorify Your name. As I extend grace, let me show Your grace. Let Your glory be the motivation for everything I do and let me always say, no matter the circumstances, “The Lord is great!!”

Reflect: How do you praise God in the hard times? How do you glorify Him in the good times?

Challenge: Keep a record (maybe use a notes page on your smartphone) of blessings as they occur each day this week.

Outreach Challenge: If someone is being negative about a person or a situation, ask them to find something positive about that person or situation. If they cannot think of anything, try to help them discover something good. There is always something good, because God is always there (sometimes it just takes more work to find it).