Psalm 102 – Overwhelmed?

Read Psalm 102

We have all been overwhelmed at times in our lives and can identify with how this psalm begins. I am not personally in a place like that right now, but I do know people who are. They often feel abandoned. Lately, I’ve heard moms voice frustration that they are forgetting important stuff in their kid’s lives (like to register them for summer camp)!  Others lament that there are just not enough hours in a day to get it all done!

For deeper, personal lament, perhaps these words from our psalm today will resonate: “time of distress”, “my heart is sick” “lost my appetite”, “lonely”, “I am withering”.

In times like this, it is easy to question God or even his existence. In times like this, we must not lose heart of faith. The Lord hears our groans and saves our tears. God never changes. He is there to love and protect us. Satan would want us to believe something different, and he has the power to do so. God’s power is mightier and will save us.

If you look at this psalm, the cry of despair blends nicely into a reverence to God’s majesty. We all need to look at our lives and find those areas that cause distress or loneliness, and turn them over to our mighty, unchanging God. A good starting point in any self-reflection is to first picture God and his role in our life. As the psalmist, we must acknowledge God, that he is eternal, and he holds our future in his hands.

Do you know anyone who may be lonely or experiencing some distress in their life?  Maybe it’s you? Think creatively how you can use the truths from this psalm to help in their time in lament.

Here are some helpful parts of today’s psalm: “but you (GOD) remain forever”; “you will change them like a garment”; “He will listen to the prayers of the destitute. He will not reject their pleas.” God is for us. God is with us.

Let’s pray. Lord, forgive me when I dwell on things that bring discouragement in my life. While I acknowledge those times will come. Help me rely on your strength to face all struggles head on and move past them. Help me focus more on you and your great plan for my life. Watch over those I love. Bring about an awakening, a desire to seek and follow you for those who are not yet following. Guide m e this day to be your light. In Jesus’ name. Amen.