Heirlooms
Read Psalms 76:1–78:72
7. Has the Lord rejected me forever? Will he never again be kind to me?
8. Is his unfailing love gone forever? Have his promises permanently failed?
9. Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he slammed the door on his compassion?
10. And I said, “This is my fate; the Most High has turned his hand against me.”
11. But then I recall all you have done, O Lord; I remember your wonderful deeds of long ago.
12. They are constantly in my thoughts. I cannot stop thinking about your mighty works.
13. O God, your ways are holy. Is there any god as mighty as you?
14. You are the God of great wonders! You demonstrate your awesome power among the nations.
15. By your strong arm, you redeemed your people, the descendants of Jacob and Joseph. Psalm 77:7-15
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How many photo albums do you have? Scrapbooks, curio boxes, and hope chests are valuable primarily because of the memories we attach to them. We all have special memories, and we cherish the things that help us remember.
Psalm 77 is about memories. The writer, Asaph, feels distraught, and he reaches into the past for comfort. What he finds there provides a valuable lesson.
The other themes in this section include asking God to punish evil-doers (Psalm 76); finding a source of courage (Psalm 77); and learning from history (Psalm 78).
The story of the parting of the Red Sea (Psalm 77:16) was a memory that every Israelite would recall and cherish because it reminded them of God’s power, protection, and love for them as a nation. Memories of God’s miracles and faithfulness often sustained Israel through their difficulties (Psalm 77:11-12), reminding them that God was capable and trustworthy.
When encountering trials and tribulations, it is good to recall God’s goodness and faithfulness. We can do this by reading favorite Bible verses, singing favorite songs, reviewing prayer journals, or discussing past blessings and miracles with a friend. Those remembrances can provide hope and strength for today.
Think of what you can do to help you remember how God has worked in your life. And if you are discouraged by your present circumstances, find a Christian friend to pray for you and to reminisce with you about God’s blessings in the past.
