Questions and Answers

“I cry aloud to God,
    aloud to God, and he will hear me.
In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord;
    in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
    my soul refuses to be comforted.
When I remember God, I moan;
    when I meditate, my spirit faints. 

You hold my eyelids open;
    I am so troubled that I cannot speak.
I consider the days of old,
    the years long ago.
I said, ‘Let me remember my song in the night;
    let me meditate in my heart.’
    Then my spirit made a diligent search:
‘Will the Lord spurn forever,
    and never again be favorable?
Has his steadfast love forever ceased?
    Are his promises at an end for all time?
Has God forgotten to be gracious?
    Has he in anger shut up his compassion?’

Then I said, ‘I will appeal to this,
    to the years of the right hand of the Most High.^‘

I will remember the deeds of the Lord;
    yes, I will remember your wonders of old.
I will ponder all your work,
    and meditate on your mighty deeds.
Your way, O God, is holy.
    What god is great like our God?
You are the God who works wonders;
    you have made known your might among the peoples.
You with your arm redeemed your people…

When the waters saw you, O God,..
    they were afraid.
The clouds poured out water;
    the skies gave forth thunder…
The earth trembled and shook.
Your way was through the sea,
    your path through the great waters;
    yet your footprints were unseen.
You led your people like a flock.” Psalm 77:1-20

The day of trouble brought nights of tossing and sleeplessness. Moaning, mired in despair, bereft of hope, the psalmist asks if there is any relief, and comfort of presence and palpable love. His answer comes in meditation, remembrance of years of wondrous works by his Most High. He needed no audible response, but to consider God’s goodness and power. To remember God Himself.

Life circumstances can press hard. Challenges at work, at home, in battling thoughts and flesh might seem endless, enough to disrupt sleep, and peace. We ask for answers, why and how long and please relief. Stewing in the troubles will never bring hope, but turning attention to the Sovereign One will.

When was the last time we appealed to God’s years, considering His infinite knowledge, might, and plans spoken and fulfilled? How well do we know the Scriptures to marvel at His ways with men and kingdoms, weather and events and transformation of the human heart? How often do we trace and marvel at His hand in our own lives, through years of abiding, protecting, guiding, providing, sanctifying? How has He saved us, met us in difficult seasons, healed brokenness, redeemed lost years? Do we readily thank Him for His training, delivering, comforting, interceding? (2 Corinthians 1:20)

Answers for us come in the attributes and actions of God. Will we trust Him in our turmoil and go forth accordingly? We can act in confidence because He acts on our behalf. He who led His people like a flock through the sea is faithful to lead and love His people still today.

Father, help me meet troubles with the strength and assurance You exhibit and impart.