How can we avoid the fate described in Psalm 59:15 in our lives? The Desperate Picture in Psalm 59:15 “They wander about for food; if they are not satisfied, they spend the night howling.” (Psalm 59:15) David’s enemies prowl like hungry, stray dogs—restless, empty, voicing their misery. Scripture presents this as the inevitable end of anyone who refuses God’s rule and provision. Why People End Up Wandering and Howling - Choosing self-reliance over God’s refuge (Psalm 59:1–3, 9) - Feeding on sin rather than righteousness (Proverbs 13:15) - Hardening the heart against God’s voice (Hebrews 3:7-8) - Neglecting daily dependence on the Lord (Jeremiah 2:13) God’s Answer: A Fortress and Feast, Not Hunger and Howling - “The LORD is my Shepherd; I shall not want.” (Psalm 23:1) - “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to Me will never hunger.” (John 6:35) - “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) - “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) Practical Steps to Stay Under His Covering - Admit need: confess any areas of self-dependence. - Run to the fortress: begin each day by acknowledging God as Protector and Provider (Psalm 59:16-17). - Feed on the Word before feeding on the world (Jeremiah 15:16; 1 Peter 2:2). - Pray specifically for daily bread—material and spiritual (Matthew 6:11). - Walk in obedience; refuse sin’s empty calories (Romans 6:13). - Keep company with those who hunger for righteousness (Hebrews 10:24-25). Daily Habits That Keep the Soul Fed - Morning gratitude list: three fresh mercies from God (Lamentations 3:22-23). - Midday Scripture snack: a verse on a card or phone reminder. - Evening reflection: where did I sense God’s provision today? - Weekly worship gathering: corporate praise strengthens contentment (Psalm 34:3). - Regular service: giving bread to others multiplies satisfaction (Proverbs 11:25). Promises That Replace Howling with Praise - “My soul is satisfied as with the richest of foods.” (Psalm 63:5) - “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13) - “I came that they may have life, and have it in abundance.” (John 10:10) Living under these truths keeps us from the empty, restless fate of Psalm 59:15 and fills our nights with songs instead of howls. |