The superscription to this Psalm tells us the context in which ancient Israel believed the song was composed. David “wrote this when Doeg from Edom went to Saul and said, ‘David has gone to Ahimelech’s house.’”
We can read that terrible story in 1 Samuel 21-22.
Read More trust, disappointment, betrayalPsalm 43 opens with a desperate cry. “Vindicate me, O God and plead my cause” (v1, NIV). While it is not clear who wrote this psalm or what the exact troubling situation was, the message is clear.
Something has gone terribly wrong. An injustice has been done
Read More disappointment, God’s presence, prayer
Many of us can think back to a special vacation that involves moving through some spectacular scenery, perhaps accompanied by some good friends. These experiences are planted in our minds for years to come and we continue to go back and cherish these memories. In the passage for today, we find a couple travelling on the road to their home in the tiny village of Emmaus and an unknown traveller comes and walks along with them.
Read More presence of Christ, disappointment, joy, journey, disillusionment, surprise
‘If only I had more time and energy, I could do so much more for the Lord!’ ‘If our church building were bigger / more central / had a better kitchen, we could initiate so many outreach projects.’ ‘If our mission had more partners, if our leaders were more imaginative, if our donors were more generous…’
Read More disappointment, God’s sovereignty, frustration