You have seen, O Lord.
A favorite song of mine from King & Country is “God Only Knows.” The song illustrates how hurt, and pain, shame, and self-blame can be so hard to bear alone. In Psalm 35:22, the writer (King David) says, “This You have seen, O Lord.” David speaks of wrongful enemies whose contempt toward him has been known to God. What I experience in these ancient and modern-day songs is healing, and comfort knowing that God, Himself, cares enough to watch over each of us no matter what we are going through. These songwriters are leading us in worshiping, fully confident about God’s love.
Another favorite Christian band that I listen to is Third Day. They sang Psalm 36:5-6, quoting Scripture in their lyrics – “Your love, Oh Lord, reaches to the heavens; Your faithfulness stretches to the skies; Your righteousness is like the mighty mountains; Your justice flows like the ocean tides.”
These and many other Psalms prompt me to remember God’s lovingkindness! I need this. So often I am embroiled in the negative thoughts that accompany this age, our world, and my life’s work. I focus on what cannot be controlled and allow anxiety and hopelessness to take up space in my head as if by ruminating on these problems, I will find relief or solutions. Where is my faith? Not that I believe I must always move mountains, but can I speak with the God who sees not only me but every event, persons involved, and outcomes for better or worse?
How does meditating on God’s word, praying to and talking with God help? My head may not think rightly but spending time with God reduces my dependence on the limited resources outside. Praising God changes what is inside me and releases power that I live in wonder to see that “all things work out together for good…” Romans 8:28. Thank You, God, for Your words of comfort and strength that rise up within me and lead me to lift my hands and my eyes to You. Guide us all, always, in Your lovingkindness and remembrance that You are in control and are in love with us! Praise to You, Lord Jesus!
Sixty-six books in a year 