“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
— Jeremiah 29:11
The Bible promises hope, and reminds us of the Lord’s good plans for us. But what happens when we face failure at work or school, when a relationship falls apart, or when we grieve the loss of a loved one? It’s easy to feel hopeful when things are going our way. It is the trials of life that can make choosing up a challenge.
God asks us to place our hope in Him...what kind of attitude does He want us to embrace then, in the midst of disappointment or turmoil?
“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.”
— Romans 12:12
Of the 150 Psalms in the Bible, 11 are attributed to a group called the Korahites. These men were responsible for the care of vessels and objects within the sanctuaries of Israel, and some also acted as porters, carrying trays of meat offerings within the temple. In some ways, these men were the waitstaff of temple life: dusting and fetching objects of religious significance, and bringing baking trays from the kitchen to the altar. Their work was simple, but clearly these psalmists felt things deeply, and expressed their faith passionately.
“Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Savior and my God.”
— Psalm 42:5
I will yet praise Him.
Whatever our station or circumstances may be, let us take a page from the book of Psalm 42: regardless of a ‘disturbance of the soul,’ let us continue to praise the Lord from whom all blessings, all mercy, and all goodness flows.
Lord, you are worthy of all praise. Whether today is bright with sunshine or mired in shadow, you alone are our Savior and our God. Renew our joy, bless us with patience, and remind us to lean on you in steadfast faith. Amen.
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