Read Psalm 33.
To be honest, I was hoping for a psalm of lament because that is where I feel most comfortable. It is much easier for me to cry out to the Lord than to sing joyfully to Him so this was a bit of a challenge for me. This psalm describes the Lord’s heart, power, majesty and the reason for our hope. It begins with a response towards the Lord followed by reasons why we should sing to Him. We should “make music to Him and shout for joy” because “He is faithful in all he does” and “The Lord loves righteousness and justice.” I am thankful that we follow a devoted God who loves good things.
This psalm humbles and reminds me of how small I am. “No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength.” I cannot put my security or trust in my family, bank account, the government, a five-year plan or even in myself which makes me thankful and relieved. Aren’t you glad that protection and security cannot come from us? Thinking about how even a king who is protected at all times and surrounded by his army cannot be saved actually brings me comfort. This is in direct contrast to what our culture believes. It takes the weight off my shoulders so that I don’t have to try to grab hold of things or people to give me security.
Another humbling truth is that no matter what plans we or other people have, the Lord’s plan will always prevail. Even if you have a choice between jobs, houses, or schools, the Lord will fulfill his purpose no matter what your choice may be. One of my favorite verses in this psalm is “But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever, the purposes of his heart through all generations.” His heart is good and trustworthy because of the things He loves and what He does.
The more I rest in this psalm, the more I am encouraged to sing and give thanks to the Lord. I can give thanks because I can trust in His heart.
May you wait in hope for the Lord as you trust in his unfailing love.
--Ally Clemments