I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.
Psalms 27:13 NIV
Does life feel overwhelming? Do you ever feel like the whole world is against you? In moments of despair, when everything seems to be falling apart, can you still declare with confidence, “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living”? Holding onto faith in God’s goodness in difficult times can be challenging, but His promises remain true.
Psalm 27:13 is a bold statement of trust in God’s faithfulness. David, the psalmist, wrote these words during a season of hardship. Instead of giving in to fear, he declared his unwavering belief that he would witness God’s goodness in his lifetime. His confidence was not based on circumstances but on the unchanging nature of God.
This verse reminds us that God’s goodness is not only a future hope but a present reality. Even in difficult seasons, we can trust that He is working for our good. His blessings, mercy, and love are tangible, even when life feels uncertain.
A powerful example of God’s goodness in difficult times is found in the story of Hannah. She endured years of sorrow, longing for a child while facing ridicule from her husband’s other wife, Peninnah. Hannah cried out to God, pouring her heart before Him in the temple. In His perfect timing, God answered her prayers and blessed her with a son, Samuel, who became one of Israel’s greatest prophets (1 Samuel 1:10-20). Her story reveals that even in prolonged suffering, God is still worthy of our trust.
Another example is Peter, one of Jesus’ closest disciples. After boldly proclaiming his loyalty to Christ, Peter denied Him three times when faced with danger. He was devastated by his failure, yet Jesus did not abandon him. After His resurrection, Jesus restored Peter, reaffirmed his purpose and called him to lead His church (John 21:15-17). Peter’s journey shows that even in moments of weakness, God’s goodness prevails, offering redemption and a renewed calling.
In our own lives, challenges can shake our faith. A financial crisis, the loss of a loved one, or a long season of waiting can make it difficult to see God’s hand at work. Yet, Psalm 27:13 encourages us to trust that He is moving on our behalf. Romans 8:28 reinforces this truth: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Even when we cannot see it, God’s goodness is shaping our circumstances for His glory and our benefit.
Consider someone searching for a job for months, feeling discouraged and forgotten. They may question whether God is still present. Yet, His goodness might be preparing the right opportunity, positioning them for something greater. Similarly, a person facing illness may struggle to understand their suffering. But through the love of family, the support of friends, or medical breakthroughs, they may encounter God’s goodness in unexpected ways.
Faith in God’s goodness in difficult times is not mere optimism; it is a confident trust that refuses to waver. David’s words in Psalm 27:13 reminds us to hold on, believing that we will see God’s goodness unfold, even in the darkest seasons. Just as David, Hannah, and Peter experienced His goodness in their lifetimes, we too can trust that His hand is at work in our lives today.