“If the LORD had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence.” (Psalm 94:17 NRS)
This song is a song of victory over oppression. The people of God were heavy-hearted, oppressed in spirit too. But their cry (v.1) was for God to come on the scene. Though they were suffering, they refused to despair (think about it); though they were persecuted, they refused to give up (think about it); though they were perplexed and cast down, they refused to stay down in confusion (think about it).
This Psalmist expresses it so well. His soul had almost dwelt in silence (v. 17). He was at his wits’ end. He didn’t know what to say or do about his circumstances, confusing as they were. As far as he was concerned, life was at an end. He was ready to be silenced by a grave.
The great Apostle to the Gentiles also experienced such oppression (2 Corinthians 1:8). I wonder if he might have thought of Psalm 94 around the time his spirits hit an all time low? Because in verses 9-10, Paul realized that he must trust in God “who raises the dead.” What a powerful, encouraging concept!
We might have a multitude of perplexing, entangling thoughts concerning our circumstances. Job certainly did. Paul certainly did. Even Christ in Gethsemane exposed his conflicts. Yet they all gave us a faithful example of the correct course to take and what the real issue is.
When in distress, look for help — God’s help. When disappointed and discouraged, look for help — God’s help. He’ll always be there — when we look — to supply help. When friends fail us, he is a faithful and powerful friend. When our support disappears, he can still be trusted to support us. When all around us is nothing but doubt, unbelief, skepticism, and outright denial of his existence, then God is our help. God keeps us alive! God guards our heart and spirit!
And unless we have made him our refuge — trusting him — expecting his support and relief — our soul knows nothing but hopelessness. Living by faith in our God and Savior, Jesus Christ, keeps our heads above the water. He is our breath! By him we move and have our being! God rewards them that believe in him and diligently seeks him!
Dear Father, thank you for encouragement and passion. Empower us with the confidence of your life-giving help. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today and trust the Lord for help,