Lent Reading: Psalm 27

You couldn’t pay me enough to go on a real rollercoaster –being terrified for my life isn’t my kind of fun! But I confess that my emotions can sometimes take me for a bit of a ride. At times like that, Psalm 27 has real resonance for me. The psalmist begins so strongly – The LORD is my light and my salvation – whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life – of whom shall I be afraid? (v 1). This sounds like a person who has it all sorted out, who never wavers, whose confidence in God is a shining light. The psalm continues – Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear, though war break out against me, even then I will be confident (v 3). Impressive stuff!

But midway through talking of the wonders of being in God’s temple, there’s a slight change of tone – in the day of trouble he will keep me safe, he will hide me in the shelter of his sacred tent. (v 5). No longer striding forth, the psalmist is looking for God to hide him away.

By v 9, the psalmist is sounding afraid and desperate – Do not turn your back on me…don’t leave me now, don’t abandon me. Then something settles. Despite the enemies all around, the psalmist finds new confidence in God – I remain confident of this: I will see the  goodness of the LORD in the land of the living (v 13). The psalm ends with these beautiful words – Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD (v 14).

I am profoundly grateful for the permission Psalm 27 gives me to bring all my emotions – from triumphs to fears – to God honestly and openly. Rollercoasters are OK! I am also encouraged to see how tested confidence can bring a new deep and humble trust. I hope Psalm 27 encourages you too.

Love to you all, Miranda.

Photo by Meg Boulden on Unsplash