A byproduct of all that has taken place over the last year is an epidemic of depression. God designed man to be a relational being. As those relationships have been closed off and strained, man’s already fragile state of mind has been affected. Political, social, and financial unrest have compounded the stress and pressure on many. Others experience continual familial struggles. In the end, we now live in a society which is angry, hostile, depressed, and frustrated. While these times feel unprecedented, they are not actually unique. From the time of the Fall through today, man has struggled with a weary heart.
Psalm 27 provides much needed hope and guidance in the middle of challenging days. The Psalmist declares, The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? 2 When evildoers assail me to eat up my flesh, my adversaries and foes, it is they who stumble and fall. 3 Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident (ESV). When the world is overwhelming and we feel as though we cannot go on, we must turn our eyes to the one who provides light and a stronghold. We are reminded that though some sinfully assail us, they are the ones who will fall in the end when they stand before their Creator.
The psalmist continues with the importance of worship. He spends several verses declaring the beauty of God in the temple and the shelter of His worship. One reason that so many are struggling is that they have forsaken the church. Through the body of Christ, we are reminded that we are not alone in this struggle. We are reminded of the eternal priorities of life and the passing temporary nature of the world. And we are reminded to look to God.
The Psalmist concludes Psalm 27 with a powerful testimony, I would have despaired unless I has believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord (NASB). The hope which keeps us from despair is our living God. He will care for us. He will provide our needs. He will never leave us or forsake us. So, take courage. God is at your side. Don’t despair, look up. Don’t be marked by anger or frustration, wait on God. Spend some time today reading and meditating on Psalm 27.