We’ve all been there! A problem overwhelms us. We’re not sure what to do or where to turn. Our faith seems weak as we experience our faith and feelings in conflict. So, now what? Psalm 77 gives us helpful insight. What the writer said about his struggling faith and feelings apply across many centuries to us. What is his message?
Let us thank God for the Psalm writer’s honesty, insights and good news!
First (vss 1-2), the writer cried out! His faith and feelings were in turmoil. In his mind, he knew that God was with him. But, his troubled feelings deflected him from recognizing God’s presence and receiving God’s help. As we look closely at what the writer says, we discover that what he expressed is not unique to him.
Next (vss 11-12), the writer remembered how God had been present and active in the lives of countless numbers of people over time. He then remembered and thought about how God had been present to him in the past. Meditation (remembering and thinking) with God’s help enabled him to consider how past stories and truths about God are universal, personal and timeless. Remembering helped him. It will help us, too!
The psalm’s next verses (vss 11-15) celebrate what God has done on a global and personal scale for people, over time. God is always present. God always acts to bless people. God is all-powerful and has a record of proof in history. Our God is holy and unique among other gods. May we celebrate: God’s love, faithfulness and power stand ready to bless us!
In vss 16-20, the writer shares good news. Good news about God always comes in quantity and quality. The psalmist remembers and celebrates great events of God’s presence and activity in history. Only our God has such mighty power and unlimited ability. Only our God cares and loves people so much!
What had begun with faith and feelings in turmoil concluded with good news and evident healing. Summarizing the psalmist’s message for us:
- Recognize. Let’s be honest with ourselves. We all experience difficult and painful times. We hurt!
- Cry out! Feelings and faith are often in conflict. Release and express our feelings to God in prayer.
- Remember. God is always present in our lives, and the lives of others.
- Celebrate. Let us remember joyfully God’s presence and mighty actions over time.
- Good news. As we celebrate God’s faithfulness and commitment to bless us, we will be healed.
Let us thank God for the Psalm writer’s honesty, insights and good news!