Understanding God – Part II
Thursday, June 18
Understanding God – Part II
O God, why have you rejected us forever? Psalm 74:1
Can you identify times in your life when you simply do not understand or cannot find the hand of God? And you question why certain things are happening to you? Does it almost feel like God has rejected you? If so, your experience is common in the history of the people of God. This psalm opens with this question: ‘Why have you rejected us forever, O God?’ In these times it is important for us to be honest with the Father and tell Him our concerns.
Sometimes it may seem as if God is silent and not intervening to help you in any way. As the psalmist says, ‘We are given no signs from God; no prophets are left, and none of us knows how long this will be’ (v.9). That is far from the truth!
When you go through times like this, you never know how long this will be. You might have questions about why a part of your life is working out as it is. Or perhaps you just feel that God is distant. What should you do in times like this?
Be honest with God. Notice the psalmist does not beat around the bush. He is straightforward and ask the questions to God and seeks an answer. ‘You walked off and left us, and never looked back. God, how could you do that? We’re your very own sheep; how can you stomp off in anger?’ (v.1, MSG).
You are not alone when you have these kinds of experiences and emotions. One of the great blessings of the psalms is that you can turn to them in times of mysterious suffering and echo these prayers in your heart. The Providence of God is a great mystery, so hang tight as you seek the One who can see you through it all.
Prayer for today: Loving Father, thank you that even when I can’t understand what is happening to me, I can be honest with you when I pray and pour out my heart to you. Amen.