Living in Increase (Part 11) - Increase in JoySample

The Psalm Perspective

Psalm 13 is one of my favorite Psalms because it displays what I call “the Psalm syndrome” perfectly. If you read through Psalms, you will notice that, often, these Psalms begin one way and end another. Most Psalms begin with David complaining about something or questioning God. However, the tune changes towards the end, and David begins to thank and praise God. In other words, the situation starts badly, but it ends well.

What I love about the Psalms is how real they are. How many of us have experienced the “Psalm syndrome”? We complain about something or question God about our circumstances, and as we pray and cry out, our perspective begins to shift.

I love that David complains and pitches a fit in his Psalms because it gives us the freedom to do the same. However, he ends on a positive note. He questions God and then says that He trusts Him. He complains but then thanks God for His unfailing love.

It’s okay to tell God what you would love for Him to fix. It’s okay to tell Him about your frustrations and complaints. However, at the end of the day, our perspective should be gratitude. Even if God doesn’t do what we wish He would do or answer us how we want Him to, we should be grateful that He is who He is and always knows what’s best!

Emily N. Green

Action Step: Be honest with God about your frustrations. Then, thank God for what He’s done and what He’s doing. End your time with God on a positive note by praising Him.