THINGS THAT ENDURE
“He heals the broken hearted and binds up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3) NIV
Each of the Psalms from chapters 146 to 150 begin and end the with the words: “Praise the Lord.” The Jews call the entire book of Psalms “Praises.” Our words of Scripture for today are from Psalm 147. It not only includes praise, but it also deals with the humble and the brokenhearted. The term
humble often denotes affliction and distress. When people recognize that they cannot cope with life’s problems and difficulties in their own strength, often they humbly cry out to God for help and sustenance to survive the onslaught.
- God supports the humble and supplies them with strength. (Ps. 10:17)
- In the Old Testament, we see God supported the humble; similarly in our day, Jesus promises help and encouragement to those who display humility in the face of suffering. (Matthew 11: 28)
- A humble spirit pleases God. Therefore, those who believe in God ought to pray for a spirit of humility. (Colossians 3:12)
The apostle Paul reminds us that we have been raised with Christ. So we must set our hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. (Colossians 3:1) This brings us to practical Christian living in our day. Paul’s description of it is an “off and on” experience. We put off the deeds of anger, deceit, arrogance, hypocrisy, idolatry and all other behavior that is unbecoming of a child of God. We put on the qualities of kindness, patience, humility and love. It resembles a change in wardrobe: exchanging the soiled conduct of the world for the holy attire of Christian living that will endure. This is a wardrobe that will never go out of style!
When hurts and emotional wounds are a burden on your heart, they can crush your spirit. When you are in such a vulnerable place in your life, keep in mind that God is the ultimate restorer who can heal your deepest wounds. (Ps.147:3) So, release your pain to the Master’s hands and submit yourself to Him without reservation. Then His love will soothe each wound and revive your soul. His power can renew, restore and breathe new life into your deepest pain. (Colossians 3:10)