Psalm 92
In my mid-thirties, I was struggling with depression. I wasn't sure of what to do, so I went to see a counselor at Lutheran Family Services. I don't remember the counselor's name, but I do remember him teaching me about "self-talk" and giving me a book on the subject. Written by a Lutheran pastor and a clinical psychologist, William Backus, "Telling Yourself the Truth" turned out to be an excellent resource. And introduced me to a practical counseling theory: Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Here is a link if you are interested in having this short, simple yet profound read: Telling Yourself the Truth
Why do I share this? As I began reading Psalm 92, I discovered a voice in my mind telling me that this word was true and was giving me such peace in my soul. With the psalmist, I was praising God and remembering all the wonderful things He/She is continually doing in my life and in our world. As I read, I told myself the truth —or, rather, God was telling me the truth: God is in control.
Read this Psalm very slowly and notice what goes on in your soul.
Psalm 92 (NIV)
It is good to praise the Lord and make music to your name, O Most High, proclaiming your love in the morning and your faithfulness at night, to the music of the ten-stringed lyre and the melody of the harp. For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are your works, Lord, how profound your thoughts! Senseless people do not know, fools do not understand, that though the wicked spring up like grass and all evildoers flourish, they will be destroyed forever. But you, Lord, are forever exalted. For surely your enemies, Lord, surely your enemies will perish; all evildoers will be scattered. You have exalted my horn like that of a wild ox; fine oils have been poured on me. My eyes have seen the defeat of my adversaries; my ears have heard the rout of my wicked foes. The righteous will flourish like a palm tree, they will grow like a cedar of Lebanon; planted in the house of the Lord, they will flourish in the courts of our God. They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green, proclaiming, "The Lord is upright; He is my Rock, and there is no wickedness in him."
Praising God is a powerful remedy for feeling the blues! When our problems seem so large, it is because we have allowed God to be so small. But when we focus on our great God, our problems become very small. How true!
Questions for Reflection:
- Reading the Psalms is a great way to encourage our hearts and find peace. What else works for you? I also listen to music, especially hymns, get outside to walk (sometimes I carry golf clubs), go swimming, or visit with friends. You?
Prayer:
Lord, with the Psalmist, we find ourselves at peace when we recall the wonderful things you are doing in our world. You are in complete control. When evil raises its ugly head, we know you are working behind the scenes to bring about justice and mercy. You, Lord, are forever exalted. Amen.
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