Wednesday, December 16

Psalm 80:4-7
Today’s verses follow on the heels of yesterday’s. But today the psalmist’s accusations grow stronger.

It’s not just that God hasn’t been doing what he used to. Now the psalmist charges God with active cruelty—being angry despite the people’s prayers, feeding them with the bread of tears, making them the laughingstock of the neighborhood.

The amazing thing is, though, that the psalmist still turns to God. Though he is frustrated with God and believes God to be the source of Israel’s suffering, he’s also convinced that God will be the source of her salvation. The psalmist knows that Israel exists because God called her into existence. The psalmist knows that he himself is God’s creature and that his restoration will come through God alone.

Are you convinced of that? Are you convinced that God is the source of your salvation, even though the opposite may feel true?

In case you’re not, remember this: “Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him” (John 3:17). Jesus Christ has come and is already at work restoring his creatures. He wants you to have life, and have it to the full (John 10:10).

Prayer: O God of our salvation, I turn to you for help. In the midst of suffering, it’s hard for me to believe that you also bring salvation. But I want to believe. Help my unbelief. Remind me of your deep love for me, love that you have shown in Jesus Christ.