The 3rd psalm is an amazing story of the transformation of the soul, its awakening. It consists of the whole spectrum of the psalmist's feelings: from the strongest thrill and despair to complete peace.

The psalm was written by King David during the most difficult period of his life – during his flight from Abishalom. The whole tragedy of the situation is that Abishalom was the native son of King David, and he led a rebellion against his father, wanting to take the throne by force. The son became the persecutor and leader of his father's enemies.

"Lord, how many are my foes! How many rise up against me! Many are saying of me, «God will not deliver him»».

Such abitterin David's words. Mournful martyrdoms consume the unhappy parent. He is literally close to despair. The soul tears to pieces from pain, frustration and strengthlessness: his own son intended to kill him. The king finds no place and solace for himself neither among people, nor in complete privacy.

Only the thought of God brings him back to life. The psalmist remembers the Lord and throws himself at His feet in his misfortune.

So, here comes a saving epiphany:

"But you, Lord, are a shield around me, my glory, the One who lifts my head high. I call out to the Lord, and he answers me from his holy mountain."

These lines, according to the word St. Athanasius of Alexandria, teach us that in any difficult circumstances, we should repair to no one else but to God.

No matter how difficult the circumstances of our life are, we must not despair. Despair is a sign that a person has forgotten about God, has retreated from Him.

The Lord is our resort in all descends, protection in everyday storms and adversities, Light in any darkness. We have no other help but the Almighty God.

The following is about David's spiritual awakening:

"I lie down and sleep;  I wake again, because the Lord sustains me. I will not fear though tens of thousands assail me on every side."

And now we already see the triumph of faith, the feast of truth and love. Fear is broken, the light of God has shone in the heart and dispelled all darkness.

"Arise, Lord!Deliver me, my God!Strike all my enemies on the jaw;break the teeth of the wicked.From the Lord comes deliverance.May your blessing be on your people."

Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ is the victory of life over death. Through fear, pain and torment to the highest sweetness and peak — to the God’s truth.

The love acquired in the painful transformation of the soul makes us invincible. The God’s wisdom dwells in the heart that loves the Lord. It becomes a guiding star and helps to make the right decisions in any life situation. He mercifully blesses and comforts the heart turned to the Almighty with His Spirit. And the God’s blessing is the mercy of mercies, the highest reward, the grace sent down.

Recorded by Natalia Goroshkova