I’m a marriage and family therapist working mainly with teenagers and couples. The words I hear the most in my office are “always” and “never”. Those words are a clue to me of an unknown need the individual has. We use those words as a way of getting the attention and help we so desperately need.
“His ways are always prosperous; your laws are rejected by him; he sneers at all his enemies. He says to himself, “Nothing will ever shake me.” He swears, “No one will ever do me harm.””
Psalms 10:5-6, NIV
We have insight into what is going on for the author of Psalms 10. His use of “always” points to his lack. It could be lack of attention, protection, justice or help from God. He is feeling distant from God and envy’s the wicked and what seems to be their better and easier life.
I feel that! I’ve been there! I’ve watched others seem to have everything while I struggle to get what I need. I’ve watched others not cherish the gifts they have been given while I long for the same gift. Have you felt it? Have you seen what appears to be the blessings of the wicked?
I love what we read in Proverbs.
“Do not envy the wicked, do not desire their company; for their hearts plot violence, and their lips talk about making trouble.”
Proverbs 24:1-2 NIV
I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to plot violence and I don’t want to make trouble. I want peace and joy and love and connection. In a perfect world, I would want it all. The “stuff” with the peace. This side of heaven, however, it doesn’t always work that way. So I wait…and I work on trust…and I believe in Gods goodness.
“You, Lord, hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry,”
Psalms 10:17 NIV
I love how the author ends on God and not his troubles. May we always find our way back to God. When you are feeling the trouble and the pain may you rest in the character of God. Who He is will never change. That, my friends, is more stable and constant than anything in life.
Dear God, as we struggle and hurt and strive may we see YOU. May we recognize the work that you are doing in us and through us. Comfort our hurting hearts. Hear the cry of our hearts. May we be forever aware of your presence. Thank you for being a God that never changes! Amen.
Mandy
Sixty-six books in a year 