~ Psalm 34:19
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David wrote Psalm 34 after a season of intense trial, hiding from Saul and feigning madness to escape danger. He knew firsthand the truth of this verse: even God’s people are not exempt from affliction.
The verse begins with realism: “Many are the afflictions of the righteous.” To be righteous does not mean to be free from suffering. In fact, sometimes following God brings more hardship, not less. The Hebrew word for afflictions, ra‘ot, can mean troubles, calamities, adversities. It encompasses persecution, loss, hardship, and even sickness.
This is important to affirm: walking with God does not guarantee perfect health or a trouble-free life. Sickness exists in a fallen world. But here’s the good news: though afflictions are many, deliverance is certain.
“The LORD delivers him out of them all.” Deliverance doesn’t always look the same. Sometimes God delivers by healing in this life. Sometimes He delivers by sustaining us through sickness with His presence and peace. And ultimately, He will deliver us completely in the resurrection, when every trace of affliction will be gone forever.
From a biblical health perspective, this verse keeps us balanced. We are called to care for our bodies with wisdom, avoiding what harms and embracing what strengthens. But when sickness comes despite our best efforts, we don’t despair. We trust that God is still our Deliverer. His deliverance may come in stages—healing now, strength to endure today, and complete restoration in eternity.
Notice also that David emphasizes “the LORD” as the Deliverer. Not chance. Not self-effort. Not even medicine alone. While God can use doctors, nutrition, or natural remedies, it is ultimately the LORD who brings true deliverance. This keeps our eyes fixed on Him, even as we make wise choices.
So when afflictions come, remember this promise: they may be many, but they are not final. For every affliction, there is a deliverance. For every trial, there is a way through. And for every sickness, there is an ultimate healing—whether here on earth or in the glory to come.
Prayer: Lord, thank You that even though afflictions are many, Your deliverance is greater. Teach me to trust You in sickness and trial, knowing You are my Deliverer. Whether through healing now or ultimate healing in eternity, I rest in Your promise to bring me through them all. Amen.
