Monday Reflection – April 13, 2026 My Times are in God’s Hand

My times are in your hand. Psalm 31:15

Admittedly, many times we are a control-freak people. We love to be in control, managing our
lives and that of others. Humans enjoy wielding power and authority over others. It is no wonder
that when the enemy tempted Eve, that the serpent said, “For God knows that when you eat of it
(fruit of the tree in the middle of the garden) your eyes will be opened, and you will be like God,
knowing good and evil.” (Genesis 3:5) How often do we find ourselves trying to seek control
and manipulate challenging circumstances that come about in our lives, instead of first and
foremost surrendering ourselves and our circumstances to the sovereign hand of the Lord?
Today’s Watchword affirms that God has ordained every circumstance of our lives to be worked
out for our good and for His glory. We can rest knowing that every aspect of our lives is under
His divine control. 

In the context of today’s Watchword, David is facing intense persecution, with his life in danger,
yet he shifts from complaint to affirmation of God’s control. David’s affirmation, in the midst of
enemies who would destroy him, demonstrates his faith and confidence in God. David was never
ashamed to make it known that his trust was in the Lord. The Psalm opens with the king’s prayer
and adoration that the Lord was his strength, protector and shepherd (31:1-3).  Nevertheless, the
life of the king was not without its burdens and troubles that are the plague of all persons living
in this fallen, sin cursed world.  Sorrows, disappointments, grief, loneliness and traitors who
slandered his name were the haunt of his life. In the midst of his sorrows, David did what should
be the practice of all who know the Lord – he called to the Lord and confessed.

The reference to the “times” is about all circumstances, vicissitudes, and changes throughout a
person’s life. This includes the duration of life, times of trial, and moments of relief. The good
times, the bad times, the times of joy and sorrow, times of health and sickness, the times of
wonder and anticipation, the times of dread and anxiety – all times are directed by the hand of
God who is faithful and ever-present. The hand of God symbolizes both His authority and His
loving care. Instead of being in the hands of enemies or fate, the believer is securely in God’s
grasp. Even while being surrounded by enemies, the Psalmist actively chooses to trust God. This
indicates that faith can exist alongside, or in spite of, severe trials. Indeed, life events are not
arbitrary. They are ordained and managed by God’s wisdom.

 
So today’s text is a declaration of total trust in God’s sovereignty over every aspect of life. It
signifies that a believer’s life is controlled by God’s loving providence, not by chance, enemies,
or circumstances, providing security and peace in challenging times. When facing uncertainty or
opposition, this verse invites us to release control and entrust our future, safety, and reputation to
God. May God help us so to do. Amen

Jermaine Gibson