Have you ever felt as if no one was there for you when you faced a difficult and trying time? Perhaps King David’s words reflect what you were feeling: “I look for someone to come and help me, but no one gives me a passing thought! No one will help me; no one cares a bit what happens to me” (Psalm 142:4).

David wrote Psalm 142:1-7 when he was hiding away in the darkness of a cave. This is how one Bible commentator described David’s emotional state and how he dealt with his anguish: “The bitter water rose up to the brim; what was to be done? He must pour out the wormwood and the gall, he could not keep it in, so he lets it run away as best as it can, so that his heart may be emptied of the fermenting mixture. But he took care where he outpoured his complaint . . . . He exhibited his griefs to one who could assuage them.”

The book of Psalms is filled with true lament and the expression of raw emotions. Through the centuries, this precious collection of Hebrew poetry has helped bring hope and peace to millions of Christians in times of distress and heartache. We can experience the same things. For even in the cave of despair, when we feel lost and lonely, we’re never alone. God is with us (Psalm 139:7). As Psalm 142:1-7 reveals, we can bring our complaints to Him. In fact, He’s our best confidant. His perfect love, wisdom, and power will provide what we need.

Because of that truth, David could say to the Lord, “You are my place of refuge. You are all I really want in life” (Psalm 142:5).

No matter the difficult circumstances around us or the desperate feelings within, God cares deeply for us (1 Peter 5:7). He hears our cry and draws us close, even in the darkness.

NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Matthew 5:31-48