Overcoming Insurmountable Barriers

Daily Devotional – Wednesday, February 22, 2023
From the end of the earth I will cry to You. When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.
Psalms 61:2 (NKJV)

King David was a believer in overcoming insurmountable obstacles. As a young man herding Jesse’s flock, he killed bears and lions. (1 Samuel 17:34). Before he gained such courage, how often did he need to hide in fear and cry to God for protection from wild beasts?

Triumph Over Insuperable Impediments

In addition, when Samuel anointed David to succeed King Saul, the son of Jesse became Saul’s enemy Number 1. Later when he became king himself, David had troublous days when he had to run from close enemies such as his own wayward sons.

He often found refuge in mountains and caves. While in hiding, he composed songs about God’s ability and willingness to intervene on behalf of His people. Psalms 61 fits into such a context. The psalmist is in trouble and probably far from home and safety.

Lead Me to the Rock that is Higher Than I

Here is an excerpt from this great composition: “Hear my cry, O God. Attend to my prayer. From the end of the earth, I will cry to You. When my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” (Psalms 61:1-2).

The psalmist raises the possibility of one almost succumbing to fear because of hardships. Therefore, he makes a plea to God to lead him to a rock that is higher than he (David) is. The king is asking God to lift him up where his enemies cannot reach him.

Jumping Over Impossible Hurdles

Literally, the psalmist pleads with God to elevate him to a point where David himself cannot reach without God’s aid. In essence, when God answers David’s prayer, David will attest that he got where he is only by God’s grace.

That is what we can describe as jumping over impossible hurdles. It is not by our might or wisdom but by the favour of God. When we are in trouble and all seems lost, we can appeal to the God of David and He will do what He only can do.

Overcoming Insurmountable Obstacles

Overcoming insurmountable obstacles is a privilege of every believer who enjoins himself to God. When we express our helplessness and cling to His omnipotence, God lifts us up to where our enemies cannot reach us. Will you surrender your life to Him who makes a way where none exists?

Prayer
Almighty God, when my heart is overwhelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I. By Your power and grace, I will overcome insurmountable barriers.