My God, my God, why have You forsaken me? Why are You so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish?” (Psalm 22:1 NIV)
David originally penned this song, but Jesus made it famous. Jesus uttered David’s words from the cross, just before He breathed His last. And it looked like hope died along with Him.
Yet, by the power of the Holy Spirit, He was raised from the dead. Three days later, He was resurrected: the hope of the world breathed again. In the hands of a holy God, what looked like utter loss was somehow transfigured into tremendous victory.
We think of David and Jesus and we are reminded of our own earthly perspective problem. In our flesh, in the dirt of day-to-day living, it may feel like God has failed. Our story might be deeply marked by loss. We may be tempted to believe the lie of divine abandonment. But we must recall: God isn’t through just yet. Our story isn’t over until we are resurrected with Him, and then we will just be getting to the good part!
Let’s not be deceived by the loud and close nature of our feelings. Let’s instead hold fast to God’s promises. Let’s choose to trust that there is still goodness ahead.
“I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord.” (Psalm 27:13-14 NIV)
Lord, please forgive us for all the times we let our feelings lead the way. Help us to trust You when our situation looks dire. May we choose to put our hope in Your promises and believe that the best is yet to come. Amen.