Ups and Downs of Life.

I've heard theories spouted when discussing Biblical theories on an email list I'm a part of that King David may have been bi-polar. They base that assumption on the incredible ups that he seemed to experience and the incredible lows that he had.

The last discussion that was had about this topic was about two weeks ago. I've been thinking about it since.

What I think is that David wrote the book of Psalms over a period of several years. Yes, there are some extreme fluctuations found in the mood of the Psalms. Some chapters are comforting -- obviously Psalms 23 is turned to by many in times of difficulty as a form of solace. Some chapters are sad and a sense of hopelessness pervades them. Then there are other chapters where the attitude is one of extreme praise, lifting hands like the leaves of the trees do to worship their Maker.

Those extreme fluctuations are a result of the events that were happening in his life. I mean, he was being CHASED for his LIFE by King Saul and his armies. He was living in caves. His faith in God was being tested every single day. He was questioning the reason for his life. I know I would if my routine was living in caves and hiding for my life -- because of the hatred of someone who had the power to kill me. In fact, I would find it downright depressing.

On the other hand, how uplifting must it have been to have God come through for him, time and again? To know that there was someone more powerful than his enemies who was looking out for him? And those times, when he was reminded of God's greatness, would be filled with praise and joy.

The extreme highs and lows of life? Or bipolar? I think the first option. But that's just my opinion.