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When a parent dies and leaves a child behind, that child often feels abandoned. When a married couple breaks up, the remaining spouse or children may feel deserted. Or, when a long-term marriage ends through death, the remaining spouse may feel foresaken. Few people go through life without ever feeling left behind. But what can they do? When David felt abandoned due to illness, he turned to the Lord in prayer. He said (Psalm 38), “You know what I long for, Lord; you hear my every sigh. My heart beats wildly, and my strength fails, and I am going blind. My loved ones and friends stay away, fearing my disease. Even my own family stands at a distance. Those who wish me harm make plans to ruin me. All day long, they plan their treachery. But I am deaf to all their threats. I am silent before them as one who cannot speak. I choose to hear nothing, and I make no reply. I am waiting for you, O LORD. You must answer me, O Lord my God.” David turned to the Lord because he knew that when you feel abandoned, God is your only sure source of comfort. He could also recall what he said on another occasion, (Psalm 27) “Even if my father and mother abandon me, the LORD will hold me close.” Every genuine child of God can claim that promise.
