In the face of problems, difficulties, and challenges what can you do as a Christian? How is your life any different than the person who doesn’t know God? In fact, there may be some people who throw this taunt your way, “Where is your God?”
So what to do? I read the Psalmist’s response to taunts like that this morning in my Bible reading during my time of “coffee with the Lord” – it’s found in Psalm 42.
Longing for God’s presence and power can be of help… “As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for You, O God! My soul thirsts for God. For the Living God! (vss. 1-2)
But the taunt is still there – still voiced!
Nostalgia – the remembrance of special times in God’s presence with God’s people also helps… “These things I remember, as I pour out my soul: how I would go with the throng and lead them in procession to the house of God with glad shouts and songs of praise a multitude keeping festival.” (vs. 4)
But the taunt still troubles us… perhaps we need to stand in front of a mirror and have a long talk with ourselves about how things are – spiritual realities – the way things are for those who serve the Lord!
“Why are you cast down, O my soul – why are you in turmoil with me? Hope in God! I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God!” (vs. 5)
The recollection of his “steadfast love” through authentic worship helps… By day the Lord commands His steadfast love! At night His song is with me, a prayer to the God of my life!” (vs.8)
And in front of that mirror, talking to yourself that way – faith and hope arise within, in spite of all taunts!
“Why are you cast down, O my soul! Why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him, my salvation and my God!” (vs. 11)
Perhaps it’s time for some spiritual self-talk, don’t you think!
