June 28 - Psalm 59
- Michael Guastella
- Jun 28, 2025
- 3 min read
DAILY READING
REFLECTION
When the Dogs Howl
By Michael Guastella
Life always seems to have a way of throwing curveballs. Sometimes, those curveballs feel less like a game and more like a relentless assault. We can find ourselves surrounded, hemmed in by circumstances, criticisms, or even outright enemies, much like David did in Psalm 59. The very first verse tells us his situation: "Deliver me from my enemies, O God; protect me from those who rise up against me." Saul’s men were literally surrounding his house, waiting to kill him.
David’s plea is urgent, just as ours always seem to be. He describes his adversaries as bloodthirsty men, wicked, and treacherous. He paints us a picture of their nastiness, comparing them to dogs howling around the city, ready to devour him. I am sure we can all relate to that feeling of being hunted, and of facing unjust accusations or relentless opposition. Perhaps it’s a difficult boss, a critical family member, a toxic friendship, or even the oppressive weight of your own insecurities.
What’s remarkable in David’s prayer is his unshakeable confidence in God, even amidst the immediate danger. He doesn’t pretend the threat isn't real, but he immediately turns to his Deliverer. "You, Lord God Almighty, you who are the God of Israel, rouse yourself to punish all the nations; show no mercy to wicked traitors" (v. 5). David knows the character of his God – powerful, just, and sovereign over all.
He anticipates God’s intervention, declaring, "But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble" (v. 16). Even before the deliverance, David is choosing to worship. He shifts his focus from the howling dogs outside his door to the unfailing love and mighty strength of his God. This is a powerful lesson for us. When we feel overwhelmed, our natural inclination might be to despair or to try and fight in our own strength. But David shows us a better way: to fix our eyes on the Lord.
Psalm 59 is a reminder that God is our refuge, our strong tower, our fortress in times of trouble. He sees our struggles, hears our cries, and is mighty to save. We may not always understand why we face certain trials, but we can rest in the assurance that God is actively working on our behalf. He is not a distant, indifferent deity, but a present and powerful helper.
So, when the "dogs" in your life begin to howl, remember David's prayer. Lay your burdens before the Lord. Trust in His strength, sing of His love, and find your refuge in Him. For He is our strength, our refuge, and our God of mercy. In His perfect timing, He will deliver.
PRAYER
God, you know our deepest fears. Let us recognize them not as crippling - but as gifts from You. Opportunities to turn to You, to trust You deeper, to know You better, and to learn our greatest comfort will always come from You. Grant us the forbearance during our anxious and terrifying moments to feel Your love, and may we always strive to turn to You first.
About the Author
MICHAEL GUASTELLA
I have been a Hilliard resident since 2022, and have lived in Columbus about 11 years. I am originally from the Cleveland area. I work in downtown Columbus as a government affairs consultant. My wife, Rachael, and I have been attending UALC since early 2024.
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