David had a dangerous experience with the Philistines in Gath from which he fled with his men to the wilderness. He was happy to be out of enemy territory where he probably shouldn't have gone in the first place. He now begins to use words like bless, boast, magnify and exalt. David had just gotten out of a tight place, and he left us some instructions to guide our thanksgiving and worship as he was being felt led to do.

We have all been or will be in some frightening spots in our lives. I speak from personal experience as I am a 13-year cancer survivor, and this past September I found myself being placed in ICU in a local hospital because of substantial blood loss - and old fears pop up. I was facing a test that could cause severe side effects in me.

During this week-long stay I experienced two great experiences with God doing just what David had shared with us. Being deeply in need and no answers here on earth, I turned to my God to rescue me, as I called upon him at about 3:00 a.m. on the morning of my test, I experienced a presence as never before, in my room. I cried out to God and a loving heavenly Father spoke peace and assurance to me. I worshipped him with all my being. As I told others, the Lord and I had Church that morning. When the procedure was over and the feared side effects did not come, it was time to worship God again. When he removes us from our difficult situations, he must be praised. David knew that, and now I speak with certainty that my God cares about me.

In verse 15 he said, "The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous and His ears are open to their cry." I believe David had Church that day, too.

Trust God, call upon his name in faith believing. The victory is ours to claim! Come and worship!

Rev. Louis Dodd, Clifton Forge, Va.