When our lives are hit with a mortal blow, what actions do we take and where do we find our faith? One place to find answers to these questions is in Psalm 77.
Asaph knew that in times of crisis, we first need to acknowledge our feelings. Some samples of his acknowledgement are: Verse 1: I cry out to God and he doesn’t answer me. Verse 2: I prayed all night long and God did not bring me comfort. Verse. 4: God doesn’t give me sleep and I’m too exhausted to pray. Verse 9: Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he slammed the door on his compassion? (NLT)
If you have met the face of crisis, you can relate to Asaph’s prayers, but if all you do is relate, this is not enough. So, what do you do when yo’re stuck in heartbreak? You meditate on verse 11.
Psalm 77:11 says (NLT) But then I recall all you have done, o Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago. From this point in the Psalm, Asaph changes. Why? Because when we focus on all the Lord has done throughout the ages and throughout our lives, gratitude can help absorb pain.
Yes, it’s important to acknowledge our pain and struggles. Jesus tells us to come to him if we are heavy laden and he will give us rest, (Matthew 11:28) but, making the choice to look at and acknowledge what God has done brings healing and life. (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
