It is a challenge for modern Christians to read this psalm without hearing Jesus voice the words of the opening verse. Our thoughts turn to our Lord, sacrificed on the cross and crying out in the final moments of his agony. We are filled with questions; did God forsake Him? Will He forsake us? Is God really far from our laments and our deliverance?
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me, so far from the words of my groaning?
O my God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer, by night, and am not silent. (vv 1-2)
Many of us have lamented in this fashion as our prayers appeared to hit the ceiling and fall without response. The appearance of God’s distance has left us feeling alone and vulnerable, especially to those who deny Him.
But I am a worm and not a man, scorned by men and despised by the people.
All who see me mock me, they hurl insults shaking their heads:
“He trust in the Lord; let the Lord rescue him. Let him deliver him since he delights in him. (vv 6-8)
Do we allow these insults to pierce our souls or do we continue to trust in God? His will for each of us is beyond our thoughts and understanding and many times, especially in those moments when He seems far away, our faith must persevere. This is why we search the scriptures wherein we encounter others enduring in the same way we are. We see negative examples of those who do not wait on God (wandering in the desert, waiting for a child) and those who know that their only hope in is in the mercy of God (Job.) We can trust in His ways to be perfect despite current circumstances and continue to turn to him in love and faith.
Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you even at my mothers breast.
From birth I was cast upon you; from my mother’s womb you have been my God.
Do not be far from me, for trouble is near and there is no one to help. (vv 9-11)
LOVE | ACCEPT | FORGIVE 