THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus

Friday, December 6, 2024

Lord, he must have been miserable. Did the psalmist try to stay constantly busy so his mind wouldn’t dwell on what he used to have? If only he could shake those memories of what used to be. But you wouldn’t allow it. Not for one moment did you let up until he came to his senses.

It started as just a little sin—no big deal. After all, who doesn’t sin, right? But before he knew it, this “no big deal” sin metastasized into something he couldn’t control. Sin’s crushing grip on the psalmist led to more despair and hopelessness.

One day he woke and wondered how did I get so far from God? What am I doing here in this mire of sin and shame? I’ve become a pariah to what friends I have left, a laughingstock among the community. The psalmist had no other option but to confess his foolishness in walking away from you, humble himself and seek your forgiveness.

Later, in moments of peace and sanity, he recorded his emotions during those dark times.

“My heart is breaking as I remember how it used to be: I walked among the crowds of worshipers, leading a great procession to the house of God, singing for joy and giving thanks amid the sound of a great celebration!” Psalm (42:4 NLT)

Prayerfully, future generations would heed his warning. Prayerfully, Lord, future generations would know your mercy as well.

“Why am I discouraged? Why is my heart so sad? I will put my hope in God! I will praise him again—my Savior and my God! (verse 5).

Lord, when we’re tempted to see our past sins as something other than shameful and embarrassing, help us keep our focus on you. Life with you, Lord Jesus, is much more fulfilling. Amen.