What a day of lament! Psalm 6 is the first of seven “penitential” psalms. If you’re not familiar with that term, it would suggest the writer has realized his failings (sins), expressed his sorrow, and then made new commitment to stay close to God, as in “repent”, turn away from your sin.
I loved how the psalmist got real with God and opened up his heart. When is the last time you truly revealed yourself to God? This is a good example of what we often hear referred to as “fear of the Lord”–an awe in the Almighty. While it is easy to see the underlying concern for self and being condemned or “disciplined in rage”, you also see the trust in God’s strength and power in his pleas for “compassion” and to “be rescued”. In the end, the psalmist has assurance that God has heard his plea and will answer.
It’s not always easy to be sure the rescue is on the way when you’re in the midst of a trial. It takes true faith. Sometimes that can be hard to muster, but remember the unfailing love of our God. He does not abandon us. Ever.
“I am worn out from sobbing”, in verse 6, brought back some memories for me. Can you recall a time when you felt such despair and all you could do was weep? It is in those times that we need to dig deep to find our faith. We need to remember that God is in control, we are not, and have the assurance, like the psalmist, that God has heard our plea and will answer our prayer.
Let’s pray. Father God you are so good, and your blessings are without measure. Help us to set aside our feelings of despair and trust in you completely to protect and guide us, save our loved ones from trial, deliver us from evil and stir up in us the hunger for YOU alone. Fill us with your peace. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
