LAMENTING YET PRAISING

Is it possible to lament and praise God at the same time? In Psalm 13, David is in deep distress and pours out his heart to God. He questions if God has forgotten him. However, the tone of Psalm 13 changes as David praises God and expresses his confidence in him.

In October 2000, during a time of great pain and sorrow, I was required to write a lament for one of my classes in the Empower Program for women. Recently, I read the lament that I wrote then and was amazed as I reflected on the healing that has taken place in my heart. Here is a portion of the lament.

*My Father, I am grieving and suffering in silence. Will you answer my plea for help?
It seems you have forgotten me. My heart is filled with great pain and anguish.

Oh God, suffering like I have never experienced before has come upon me. Years of illness, abandonment and rejection. Those who pretended to love you, banished me from your sanctuary. Where have you been Father? I feel like a forgotten bird in a cage, flapping its wings to no avail. Will I die in the cage? Please come down Father and rescue me from my misery.

Your promises seem to be out of sight. Have you forgotten your promises? Where is the newness that you promised? When will you respond to my desperate cry, Father?

You opened my eyes and heart to the needs and suffering of others, yet you have been very silent. How much longer, Sovereign Lord? How much longer before you deliver me? When will you come down and make the wrongs right?

Surely, my heart is in deep pain, yet I will rejoice as I remember your faithfulness and lovingkindness. I trust you and know that you will not fail me. You have never failed me and my hope is in you.

You are the Sovereign Lord who controls and knows everything. Nothing is hidden from you. You told me to call and you will answer. I know you have heard my cry. Even as I wait, I choose to thank you for answering. You are faithful and will always be faithful. Faithful; that is who you are, Sovereign Lord.

My soul rejoices in you, my King. I praise you for your goodness and tender mercies. You created me and know everything about me.

Alleluia to my Father and King.

Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia to the Sovereign Lord.*

When I lost my job, my heart was broken and I cried. In the midst of the tears the Holy Spirit led me to Psalm 34 and I lifted my voice and declared “I will bless the Lord at all times, his praise shall continually be in my mouth”. As I uttered the words of praise, a sense of calm came over me. God invites us to honestly pour out our hearts to him and to trust him. David knew God’s trustworthiness. Do you trust God?

Heavenly Father, this life is filled with much pain, hurt and regrets. I am so thankful that I do not have to suffer in silence. You are loving and kind and I readily respond to your invitation to come to you and to cast my cares on you. I pray that I will always be willing to open my heart to you without fear of being condemned or judged. Thank you for the opportunity to call on you at any time, even in my darkest moments. You are worthy of all my praise. Thank you for hearing my cry and answering my prayer. In the name of Jesus Amen.

Throughout this day: Are you in a season of deep pain and turmoil? Read Psalm 13 and then write your own lament psalm. Include your complaint, request for help and praises to God. Listening to Perfect Wisdom of Our God

by Keith and Kristin Getty may help you to trust God even in dark seasons.