Read Psalm 102.
This is the prayer of one who was hurting. Physically, the psalmist ached so badly that he would forget to eat. As a result his body suffered even more. The restlessness prevented sleep. On top of that there was emotional suffering from enemies. He felt that he would soon die at an much earlier age than expected. That was his reality.
"But you, O LORD..." His hope was not in his physical, nor his emotional, well-being. It was his personal faith in God that gave him confidence about the future.
1. He had hope in God regarding his nation. (vv.13-16)
The land had been given to the nation of Israel by God's unconditional promise. Though circumstances may appear bleak for the moment, the writer knew that one day the LORD Himself would rule and reign from Jerusalem. Then, all nations will worship Him. The future is secure.
2. He had hope in God regarding his prayers. (v.17)
To be destitute is be stripped of everything. It is more than being needy. With no means or ability to help oneself, to be destitute is to be totally dependent. That is the relationship God wants from each person. God helps those who cannot help themselves. Casting our inability upon His limitless power and plan is the starting point of a blessed life.
3. He had hope in God for the coming generations. (vv.18-22)
"So that a people yet to be created may praise the LORD." That includes us some 3000 years later. How can we praise God when all around us appears to be getting worse by the day?
-"God is enthroned forever" (v.12). He is in control and step by step He is unfolding His future plans.
-God "hears the groans" and will "set free those who were doomed to die" (v.20). Not only does He hear our prayers and see what we are experiencing, but He has all-power to deliver us.
-God will take care of the next generation, just as He has provided for us (v.28).
"Many things about tomorrow I don't seem to understand.
But I know who holds the future and I know who hold my hand."
-Stuart Hamblen
No comments:
Post a Comment