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 a
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
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