Psalms 4:1-8 (NKJV)
1 To the Chief Musician. With Stringed Instruments. A Psalm of David. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; Have mercy on me, and hear my prayer.
2 How long, O you sons of men, Will you turn my glory to shame? How long will you love worthlessness And seek falsehood? Selah
3 But know that the LORD has set apart for Himself him who is godly; The LORD will hear when I call to Him.
4 Be angry, and do not sin. Meditate within your heart on your bed, and be still. Selah
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, And put your trust in the LORD.
6 There are many who say, “Who will show us any good?” LORD, lift up the light of Your countenance upon us.
7 You have put gladness in my heart, More than in the season that their grain and wine increased.
8 I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; For You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.
There is a wonderful opportunity that is enabled in times of distress. It’s when the soul is presented with thoughts of despair brought on by circumstances and disparaging comments from people that the heart is softened to run to the only place where true safety and peace can be found. By turning from what gratified the world to the goodness of God’s presence, security is established that will never fail. Though there are natural reactions of anger, they don’t have to result in sinful reactions when that place of meditation is chosen in a sacrifice of righteousness. Rather than yielding to a corrupting influence of life’s encounters, there is a way made in each of them to know the goodness and mercy of God, found in His presence at sleep and in peace.