Can you hear the squeals of delight when a child gets a sought-after gift? A loved one returns from serving overseas? Or, for you, it is something else. We’ve all experienced those moments and seen them replayed on social media. 

I admit, I squeal with delight, at least internally, when I find the “but God” passages in the Bible. The odds seem stacked against someone or something, but God comes through and turns things around. (Note: sometimes this doesn’t mean circumstances change, but a greater perspective is achieved and sights are set higher). Often, it sounds too much like a fairy tale but when I discover those verses, I find they are real, profound, and meaningful. It is truth. 

Today, as I read Psalm 69, I discovered another “but” verse, but it wasn’t a “but God” verse. David is detailing all the things that are against him and the way people are talking about him. No doubt this was a difficult time for David. This time, there is no grandiose entrance of God with a “but God” verse. Instead, the verse says “But I keep praying to you, Lord, hoping this time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation” (Psalm 69:13 NLT).

Do you feel like things are against you, you are under attack, everyone is speaking against you, or you just can’t get a break? Are you waiting for God to suddenly save the day, to lift you out of your mess and troubles? What if God is waiting for you? What if God is waiting for you to find peace and rest in Him? What if like David we have our own “but” moment and change the circumstances by changing our perspective and seeking Him in the middle of whatever we’re going through? What if we agree with God instead of wanting it our way? The circumstances may not change, but your response to them will.

What change will this bring to you and those around you? Today, like David, let’s say “But I keep praying to you, Lord…”