Read: Psalm 69:1-5, 30-36
When the humble see it they will be glad; you who seek God, let your hearts revive. (v. 32)
Being a Christian does not mean being immune to suffering and hardship. In fact, as we go through life, we will be affected by various life events (John 16:33). Sometimes these events bring joy but not infrequently they also bring suffering, even suffering that is not caused by our mistakes or sins. There are also people who suffer precisely because they defend and practice the truth.
The psalmist experienced this as well. He claimed to have borne reproach (v. 7), and his zeal for the house of God had consumed him (v. 9). The psalmist’s distress is remarkably described as one who is sinking into Sheol (the realm of the dead). He is alienated from his own life and is in a helpless situation as danger surrounds him (vv. 1-2). The psalmist could not understand that there were people who hated him for no reason and wanted to take his life (v. 4). If we read carefully, this psalm is a strength for those who are willing to suffer for God. However, it will seem strange to those who have never realized that loving God is a hard struggle.
Hardship can build resilience and is not always bad for us—in Romans, Paul describes the way that suffering can lead to perseverance, character, and hope (Rom. 5:5). When hardship leads to praise, God is glorified (Ps. 69:30-36).
As you pray, ask God to give you strength to continue to depend and trust in him.
Agus Gunawanis a pastor of Kebonjati Indonesian Christian Church in Bandung, West Java, Indonesia, and also a chaplain of PENABUR Christian School in Jakarta and West Java. This devotional was previously published in Wasiat, a bi-monthly daily devotional for families, produced by Words of Hope ministry partners in Indonesia. Learn more about Words of Hope's work in Indonesia.
