This psalm clearly has a breaking point between praise and the plea. I could really resonate with both. It is so important to focus on the goodness of God, what he has done, what he is doing, and what he has yet to do. We need to focus on his power, the mighty deeds he has done and the pattern seen in Scripture of how he repeatedly rescues his people. He doesn’t promise a trouble free life, but he does promise salvation. Couple that praise and awe with our own humility, we know we can’t do it all on our own, although sometimes we try, don’t we? We need Jesus and the power of God within us.
While much of this psalm focuses on enemies and foes, strength and victory, we must remember what our own foe is. It may not be a person, but a situation, a struggle, a temptation. God’s strength to conquer may come in many forms, and this is a good reminder to trust that it will. God may use the words of Scripture, the counsel of a godly friend, the beauty of his creation, or perhaps a billboard message!
The psalmist seems to have an awareness of God’s presence but feels deserted just the same. Has this happened to you, maybe it’s happening right now? You know inside that God is there, but you feel lonesome and afraid of what is lurking just beyond, or in distress by a separation from loved ones, or unsure of God’s will for your future. I often ask, “God where are you in this world of chaos?” The key to hold on to is that God is always with us, and NOTHING can separate us from him.
Do you ever question, “why am I here” or perhaps struggle with feelings of inadequacy in how you handled a situation or wishing you could be more like so-and-so because they have such an amazing personality, or wish you hadn’t wasted time on that project or want to be more of a philanthropist, or want more free time to do something that will make a difference? Take a moment to think of your struggle or the thing that is really eating at you right now.
I came across some old writings I had done somewhere along the way, and here’s what I wrote that day…”I’m feeling a bit stuck in a rut and while my rut is very comfortable, there is a nagging inside me that there is more. I could be doing so much more, and yet there is a weariness overtaking me that seems to be pulling me down. I feel like my feet are stuck in the mud.” Clearly, I needed to focus on God and his strength.
Let’s pray. Lord, help me light the spark in my life so I can sparkle with your love on those around me. Help us to look beyond our struggles and focus on your face, on what you have done for us and for those who have come before us. Draw us into your glory and wash away all doubt and fear. May your peace be in us this day. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
