Read: Psalm 77:1-15
Your way, O God, is holy. What god is great like our God? You are the God who works wonders; you have made known your might among the peoples. (vv. 13-14)
In the first part of this psalm the author emphasizes the word I. “I cry . . . I remember . . . I meditate.” Focusing on his own condition, he is deeply distressed.
Then he makes a decision, “I will remember the deeds of the LORD” (v. 11). When we are distressed, we can either focus on our condition or we can focus on the great things God has done for his people. We can recall that he promises to do great things for us also.
Now, instead of saying “I,” the writer says to God: “Your way, O God, is holy. You are the God who works wonders.” We can choose to do the same thing, to stop centering our thinking on ourselves. Rather we should recall the works of God for his people in the past, realizing the God of the past is present. As he cared about his people back then, so he cares about us now.
Friend, focus on God. Consider his power. Consider his love. Consider how he expressed that love and power for his people in the past. He loves you. He will help you. His timetable may be slower than yours, but his timing is perfect. “You led your people like a flock” (v. 20). And he will do the same thing for you. —Harry Buis
As you pray, turn to God and remember his faithfulness to you. Give him all of your concerns.
About the Author
The Rev. Harry Buis served as a Reformed Church in America pastor for 41 years, serving six congregations. He had a consuming passion for the Word of God, preached and written, and would take up his pen to share that passion at a moment’s notice. His enthusiasm for God and the Bible was his signature. Rev. Buis edited the Words of Hope daily devotional for twenty years, and wrote several books and numerous articles. He also taught as an adjunct at Hope College, Western Theological Seminary, and Kuyper College. He served the church in many capacities, and was elected President of General Synod of the RCA in 1980. Rev. Buis died of cancer in 2001.
