In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise. Psalm 56:10

In the context of today’s Watchword, David expresses deep reliance on the Lord’s care when he
says, “You have taken account of my wanderings; Put my tears in your bottle. Are they not in
your book?” (vs. 8). Here, the Psalmist acknowledges that every detail of his life is known to
God, including each tear shed in his afflictions. David’s words paint an intimate picture of a
loving and attentive Creator who notices all of His children’s sorrows. This assurance offers
comfort to all of us who may feel overlooked or forgotten, emphasizing that God’s records are
precise and He cherishes the tears of His people. Being counted and remembered has the
powerful potential to inspire believers to place our burdens confidently at God’s feet.

David proclaims in verse 9: “Then my enemies will turn back in the day when I call; This I
know, that God is for me.” Here, he exudes bold faith that the Lord will act on his behalf.
Despite the opposition he faces, he anticipates divine reversal of his circumstances. We can find
hope that in times of dire need, prayers do not go unheard, and God’s love transforms the
outcome of our battles.

Building upon this confidence, David repeats his gratitude by declaring in today’s Watchword:
“In God, whose word I praise, in the Lord, whose word I praise.” The repetition emphasizes the
strength and certainty of David’s trust. By utilizing both “God” (Elohim, representing the
Creator/Judge/ supreme authority) and “Lord” (Jehovah, representing the covenant-keeping
God), David acknowledges that the Creator is also deeply invested in his personal protection.
David’s repeated praise of God’s word underscores the reliability of divine promises. These
promises continue to reassure believers that God’s truth can be trusted to guide and fortify our
faith.

From this confident position, David emphasizes his trust as he declares, “In God I have put my
trust, I shall not be afraid. What can man do to me?” (v. 11). Though enemies may succeed
temporarily in causing fear or suffering, David stands firm in his perspective that the Lord’s
dominion is far greater than any human power. We are ever reminded that no earthly peril can
separate us from God’s love and care (Romans 8:38-39).

From today’s text, may we pursue trust over fear. Like David, may we actively shift our focus
from the danger of mere mortals to the certainty of God’s unchanging promises. May we also
remember that faith is a choice. Indeed, faith and fear can occupy the same mind at the same
time, so let’s demonstrate a deliberate act of the will to focus on God’s word. May we also
recognize the power of God’s word. Such absolute confidence is not blind optimism; rather, it is
a grounded trust in the verifiable character and promises of God. May such disposition and
attitude be ours. Amen.
Jermaine Gibson