Tears in the Bottle

"Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me. Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High. What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee."   
The artwork reflects this desperate cry for mercy. The figure appears to be weighed down by invisible burdens, constantly surrounded by enemies who seek to consume them. Yet, even as the figure seems to struggle, their posture is not one of defeat but one of seeking refuge. Their gaze is upward, toward the light that represents God, a symbol of unshakable faith even in moments of deep fear. This line connects with our personal lives when we face relentless pressures and fears from people or situations, yet choose to trust in a higher power to guide and protect us.  

"In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me. Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil."   
In the image, the figure stands tall and strong, despite the shadows of oppression swirling around them. This symbolizes the resilience of one who trusts in God's word. Though words and intentions may be twisted, and though enemies may conspire, the figure remains unmoved, reflecting the psalmist's confidence that God's promises are stronger than any harm that others can bring. This part of the psalm serves as a reminder to us in life that despite the manipulations and evil intentions we might face, God's word offers us an unshakable foundation of hope.  

"Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?"   
The visual centerpiece of the art is the symbolic "bottle" that collects tears. It is depicted as glowing softly amidst the darkness, representing the deep comfort that God sees every sorrow and records every tear. This divine empathy reminds us that no pain goes unnoticed or forgotten by God. In real life, this line speaks to the profound comfort that comes with knowing that God values and remembers our grief and struggles, and that nothing we go through is in vain.  

"When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me. In God will I praise his word: in the Lord will I praise his word. In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me."   
In the artwork, the figure is now illuminated by a stronger, brighter light, symbolizing divine intervention. The shadows of the enemies are receding as the figure stands securely in the light. This imagery captures the moment of divine response to the cry for help, affirming that God is indeed for them. This speaks to real life in that when we cry out to God in moments of desperation, we can trust that He will turn back our enemies and fears, reminding us of His constant protection.  

"For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?"   
The final scene in the artwork shows the figure walking forward, away from the shadows and into the full light. Their steps are confident, illuminated by the divine light, symbolizing the protection that God offers in guiding our paths. This line resonates deeply with the desire for stability and assurance in life, knowing that God will keep our feet from falling as we move forward in faith.  

Psalm 56 resonates with anyone who has experienced fear, betrayal, or relentless opposition. The imagery of tears being collected in a bottle offers profound comfort, reminding us that God is aware of every single sorrow we experience, and none of it is forgotten. The psalm encourages us to trust in God's word even when our circumstances seem overwhelming, and to know that God will deliver us from the dangers and threats we face. The art serves as a reminder that no matter how deep our fears and sorrows may be, God is always present, holding us, guiding us, and keeping our steps secure in His light.