Psalm 18:1-2

The human soul is comforted by certainty; in fact most of us have a voracious appetite for it. But sometimes it seems like uncertainties far out number the things we can really count on. Consequently, misery and heartache describe the typical day of many people. They range from minor annoyances like traffic jams to tragedy, both personal as well as global. So what is a person to do since we cannot change most of the uncertainties we encounter?

First, we need to remember that the irregularities of life are not unique to our generation. The unexpected has been a part of life since the beginning. Even a casual reading of the Bible makes one aware of the twists and turns of life’s daily walk. Second, true stability can only come from our Creator. About 3,000 years ago an inspired poet made this affirmation: “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge...” Psalm 18:2. This person had a good grasp of the blessedness of a solid relationship with God Almighty. He longed for it.

Skeptics usually dismiss appeals like the one in this Psalm with a shrug, thinking that modern man is much wiser and smarter. However, modern man has not and will not be able to improve upon the certitude of the Lord. That is why some first century Christians who were about to come face to face with a monumental calamity (probably the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D.) were reminded that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8) They could count on the Lord not to abandon them (Hebrews 13:5) and draw comfort from the realization that they could join with another Psalmist in singing: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear: what shall man do unto me?” (Psalm 118:6; Hebrews 13:6-7)

Life can overwhelm us if we let it. But for those who put their trust in the promises of God, there is unsurpassed assurance and comfort. Don’t let Satan and sin rob you the blessedness of divine certainty.   KD