‘“O God my rock,” I cry, “Why have you forgotten me? Why must I wander around in grief, oppressed by my enemies?” Their taunts break my bones. They scoff, “Where is this God of yours?” Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again— my Savior and my God!’ Psalms 42:9-11 (NLT)
As if being overcome by pain and suffering and oppression is not enough, the Psalmist now must listen to his enemies taunt him about his God apparently not showing up. There is another who knows the pain of this. Jesus himself experienced the same thing on the cross when passers-by, teachers and priests mocked him by saying, “Come down from the cross”. But we know a bigger truth – despite appearances, the Lord is reigning. When we are downcast, we can rely on the fact that Jesus came, died and rose again to assure us that God loves us, has not abandoned us, and is worthy of our hope and trust.
How hard is it for you to praise God when your soul is downcast?
Prayer: When I am overcome, Lord, remind me of your promise to be with me. Help me praise you in my darkness. Amen.
from Overcome by Bible Society of Australia