Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

Psalm 87 praises Jerusalem as the city God loves. The writer of Psalm 88 cried to God for deliverance from a life-threatening affliction.

What does it mean?

These psalms stand in stark contrast to each other. The first joyously celebrates Jerusalem as the center of the world and the pride of the people born there, while some have called Psalm 88 the saddest of all the psalms. The last verse of each chapter best illustrates the contrast. Psalm 87 ends with God as the source of the psalmist’s joy, and Psalm 88 ends with darkness as the writer’s only friend. It seems he had suffered a life-threatening illness for most of his life, probably leprosy. Yet, faith in the Most High, who established Jerusalem, is the underlying foundation of his prayer.

How should I respond?

Followers of Christ are not immune to unimaginable heartache. Life-threatening illness, the death of a child, and prolonged unemployment happen to believers and non-believers alike. But just like the contrast in today’s psalms, there should be a marked difference in how a Christian handles suffering. Do you have a foundation of faith that drives you to your knees before the Lord? Stop now and talk honestly with God about whatever situation may be overwhelming you. Even when all you can see is darkness, the Lord can be your hope and source of joy.