Welcome to “Bible Ponderings #5” which finds me in the Psalms in the chronological reading plan. Every few weeks or so I hope to toss out there what I’m currently reading and invite you to ponder with me!
Do you have a favourite Psalm? What emotions does it convey?
There are Psalms of happiness, sheer exuberance, sadness, full-blown despair, indignation, anger, grief, joy, wonder, sorrow, and every emotion in between. The Psalms express every condition of the human soul. Here we are thousands of years later, and the emotions expressed by the Pslamists are still relevant.
Do you recall a difficult time in your life when God led you to a Psalm which seemed to express your very heart?
I remember a particular time when a member of our family was being harassed. Psalm 143 was our cry and we felt to keep silent and endure. This person we’d once accepted into our home was spreading a lie and it was heartbreaking. Sure enough, that person was eventually exposed as a liar and silenced. They apologised to us several years later when the Lord did a remarkable work in their heart.
The words of the Psalms have ministered to me too many times to count, and it’s like visiting with an old familiar friend when I re-read the words of my favourites such as Psalm 103, Psalm 91, and Psalm 27.
On a practical level, the Psalms teach us that it’s okay to not be okay sometimes. Plus it’s okay to honestly express how we’re feeling to God…He can take it!
Is there something you’re going through right now that you need to find emotional expression for? Are you afraid? Disappointed? Hurting? Worried? There is a Psalm that will help you express your heart to God.
Just as King David did, we can express how we’re feeling, but then we need to remind ourselves of God’s perspective, His promises, and His character. David often did this by inserting the phrase “But God…” (or something similar). After he’d first expressed his raw emotions it was as if he was reminding his soul of the real truth of the matter, and we can do the same. Here’s just one example: “My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever…” Psalm 73:26
In your current circumstances what will be your “but God” reminder to self?
Something to ponder!
Quietly Roaring 
It just reminds me that His mercy is waiting or already abounding even before we know it, even before we see it. Every time we continue to “work out” or faith with Him in conversation and communion and worship I feel like He is always faithful to share pieces of Himself and His plans with us. David was “after God’s heart” and just like in our earthly relationships it takes real vulnerability to discover and know one another in such a deep way -so deep they know our heart our intentions. Good reminder this morning as I get to lead worship with friends who know my heart and who have been through trenches for us. He is so good and I hope this word anoints today’s service and the congregation will try to go after God’s heart.
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Such encouraging thoughts! Thankyou for sharing!
I hope your service went well, and that the worship was just as you were praying for- vulnerable hearts seeking Him. ❤️
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Psalm 103 is one of my favorites. David expresses the brevity of our fragile lives on earth in vs. 15-16, then proclaims: “BUT! The Lord’s faithful love spans eternity! His faithful love is toward those who fear him.” Such comforting and uplifting words. Hallelujah!
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Thankyou for highlighting that wonderful “But” in this Psalm Nancy! One of my favourite psalms too, Amen!
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