This morning, as I read from God’s Word I was in Psalm 78. Some people don’t like the Psalms. They think too many of them are alike—too many of them are ‘complainy’ in nature—too many of them sound like ancient hymns only Monte Python Monks would sing today. But those things couldn’t be further from the truth. In reality, the Psalms reflect the emotions of people exactly like you and me!
If you’re reading through the Psalms and mumbling and complaining seem to stand out—guess what? That’s what you need to listen to God about—you’re most likely a mumbler!
- If you’re drawn to the passages about rejoicing? You are in a season of joy—rejoice!
- If all you seem to glean from these great chapters is the need for justice and God to set things right—read carefully—God will show you how to handle your enemies—His way, and not yours.
- If you find it odd that a disproportionate amount of these ancient musical themes pointing out the futility of life—take note—you may be about to go through a valley and will need to know that God never leaves your side—even when it “FEELS” like He has.
Lately, I’m seeing way too much of the third kind. And, I must confess that much f the last year has been a long, hard valley for me and my family. We’ve dealt with loneliness (yes, even with a couple thousand people in your life—Life for pastors can be painfully lonely), betrayal, slander, abandonment, fickleness and a whole lot more—all the stuff Valleys are made of. But one thing separates the valleys of a believers journey from the valleys of the lost—we do not walk them alone—never.
God is ever with us.
Here’s a little thought from today’s passage of Psalm 78:17–31,
Many Christians live like, “Wilderness Christians,” displaying unbelief in God’s care, complaining about God’s provision, and showing their skepticism and insolence towards their Lord! Are you a wilderness Christian, wandering aimlessly through the hard places of life and questioning God’s care for you?
If so, read the second half of the above passage (or click here) to see how God feels about that. After you do, I’ll bet you’ll want to respond the my challenge below…
How can you believe God’s promises of daily provision in your life nd then act with confidence in His goodness?