Psalm 124

This psalm of praise and thanksgiving is short, sweet, and to the point.  It reminds me of my extensive time in Iraq during the war.  Now, that might seem a little weird since we had greater numbers, technology, and firepower.  But, when you are randomly shelled by mortars from an unseen enemy, or walking house-to-house through a city filled with people that want to see you dead, or driving down a desert road where any small mound of dirt could explode and disintegrate your vehicle…you start to see things differently.  Every day you survive is a blessing.

Israel, on the other hand, was the outnumbered party in David’s day.  He wrote this psalm in celebration of God’s protection and provision.  Looking back through the stories of his uphill battle against his enemies, he credits God with the nation’s survival.  What has God brought you through?  What do you have to be grateful for?

It’s easy to focus on “the hard.” Maybe you are in a battle or two right now.  It could be physical, emotional, or even spiritual.  It could be all three at once!  The point of these Songs of Ascents is to remember who God is and what He has done for us.  So, I invite you to remember.  Remember the relationship that went poorly and felt like the end of the world. Consider the sickness and disease and injury that you recovered from, which you thought would never happen.  Think back to times of spiritual darkness and doubt.  You are still here!  God’s not done with you yet and has a real purpose for your life.  Not only that, but He used those past difficulties to prepare you for what you are going through now, or will go through in the future.

Praise the Lord for His provision.  Worship God for His strength.  Adore the Lord for His goodness.