In his anguish, David turned to God, his “rock of refuge” (Psalm 31:2). God heard his “cry for mercy” (v. 22) and delivered him from his enemies (vv. 8, 15). He hears our cries too and offers us an eternal reward for our faithfulness and perseverance. James 1:12 tells us, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” Therefore, we’re encouraged to “stand firm . . . always [giving ourselves] fully to the work of the Lord,” because our “labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).