“Confidence in a time of crisis” is the subtitle of Psalm 77. The Psalmist cries out to God, seeking God in the day of trouble.
“I cry aloud to God for help; aloud to God, and he will hear me.” v.1 (CSV)
In a moment of honesty, he admits the emotional struggle of wanting God’s peace but also feeling uneasy and forlorn.
“I sought the Lord in my day of trouble…I refused to be comforted.” v.2 CSV
We can relate to those verses during these CoVid 19 Pandemic days!
Simple tasks, like grocery shopping, bring anxiety. Do I have the mask? Will I have to wait outside the store? Will the product I need be on the shelf?
When will I be enjoy a meal with friends in a restaurant again?
When will churches open where we can worship God together?
Each day has uncertainty in this crisis, wondering what life will look like on the other side of the pandemic.
People are at different emotional places, wondering about the next steps to resume the regular rhythms of life. Some people are ready to move forward, but others are not. It is a confusing time. Waiting, wondering, and watching. Praying.
It is easy to be disheartened. Although I gain inner strength from God, I feel frustrated being away from family and friends, and restless, from not knowing the next step.
Asaph, the writer of Psalm 77, presented his question of doubt and despair to God, but then paused to recollect the Lord’s works.
When I first read this Psalm, I wasn’t inspired, and I could definitely identify with the groaning of the writer.
But as I reread it, the shift in the psalmist’s mindset became evident and helped his perspective in the crisis.
“I will remember the Lord’s works; yes, I will remember your ancient wonders. I will reflect on all you have done and meditate on your actions.” v.11 CSV
The conscious shift in his mindset refocused his confidence on the Lord.
Asaph goes on to write:
“God, your way is holy. What god is great like God? You are the God who works wonders; you revealed your strength among peoples. With power you redeemed your people…” v. 13 CSV
It is a necessary discipline for us to recall God’s characteristics when we feel despair.God’s holiness is lifted up in Psalm 77, which draws my heart to worship God in confidence. His ways have been holy since the dawn of time.
I pause and remember how God has provided many daily blessings and love for me. My anxiety lessens when I recall who God is and all He has done.
God answered prayers in the past when I felt discouraged and provided hope in previous times of uncertainty.
We may not understand all that is happening, but can have confidence that God is greater than all of this.
If you’re feeling down, I encourage you to look into God’s holiness for a fresh vision of God’s power. Remember how God has been strength in the past. Recall the characteristics of God. Calm your heart in His holy presence, in worship.
The song, If We Ever Needed You, by Casting Crowns, presents this prayer and reminder to look the Lord for our confidence.
We will make it through.
