The Cry From a Storm-Filled HeartSample

Preaching to Yourself: The Believer's Counsel

In Psalm 43, we observe a significant aspect of a believer’s journey: the counsel one gives to oneself. Often, we find it easier to preach to others during their trials, offering advice and encouragement. But when we face our own trials, we sometimes struggle to apply the same wisdom. The psalmist demonstrates a powerful practice: preaching to oneself. He shares two crucial pieces of counsel—don’t be discouraged and don’t doubt.

First, the psalmist asks, “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you in turmoil within me?” This self-inquiry highlights the illogical nature of a believer’s discouragement. The psalmist recognizes that while he cannot control external circumstances, he can question why his soul is troubled.

Discouragement obscures the reality of God’s sovereignty and goodness. God, who holds our lives in His hands, is all-powerful and all-knowing. He can change our circumstances in an instant if He wills it. The psalmist preaches to himself, reminding his soul of God’s unfailing love and the security found in Him. As Romans 8:31-39 beautifully articulates, nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus. This truth should lift our spirits and calm our hearts.

Secondly, the psalmist commands himself, “Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God.” This is a firm directive. He charges his heart to hope in God, assuring himself of a future filled with praise. This hope is not in changing circumstances or desired outcomes but in God Himself. The psalmist’s hope is rooted in God’s steadfast character, salvation, and faithfulness.

Charles Spurgeon’s commentary on this verse reminds us to look beyond our trials toward a future filled with God’s goodness. He encourages us to “borrow the telescopic glass” and glimpse the joy that lies ahead, sweetening our current trials with the hope of God’s deliverance. Spurgeon’s imagery of lifting one’s head and smiling in the face of the storm demonstrates the confidence we can have in God’s ultimate triumph.

As we conclude this devotional series, let these practices and what the Holy Spirit has revealed to you become a regular part of your spiritual disciplines. Remember to counsel your soul with the truth of God’s Word when trials come, and they inevitably will. Let hope in God be your anchor, knowing that in Him, every challenge will ultimately lead to praise and salvation.

This devotional was inspired by an episode of the Straight Truth Podcast. You can listen to the episode at this link: https://straighttruth.net/everything-christians-need-to-know-about-anxiety-depression-godly-joy/