Words of Comfort, Hope and JoySample

Psalm 77 depicts someone in deep distress. Mental agony keeps him awake through the night (77:2, 4), he faints under the burden of his painful thoughts (77:2, 3), and he is troubled by doubts about whether God remains trustworthy (77:7—9).

He has buried himself beneath a huge heap of doubts. Has God rejected him? Has God stopped being kind, loving, and compassionate? Can I trust in God in my current struggles, or should I seek help elsewhere?

The Psalmist's emotions resonate with us all. When we face struggles in life and there seems to be no exits in sight, we may doubt God’s integrity and faithfulness. That is natural. But this psalm does not leave us with doubts. The Psalmist also shares how he regained his balance when his spirituality tilted towards doubt rather than trust.

The turning point came when he turned his focus to “the years of the right hand of the Most High” (Psalm 77:10).

The right hand of the Lord symbolizes God's militant power. Another Psalmist expands on this: “The right hand of the LORD does valiantly, the right hand of the LORD exalts, the right hand of the LORD does valiantly!” (Psalm 118:15—16, ESV).

The meditation on the “right hand of the Most High” inspires new hope and renewed trust. The dark clouds of doubt part to reveal a newfound confidence to adore God: “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. You with your arm redeemed your people, the children of Jacob and Joseph” (Psalm 77:13—15, ESV).

When we forget what God has done in the past for us, we tend to doubt His faithfulness in the present and future. When we find ourselves in the depths of depression, remember that God has performed great deeds in our lives as a mighty warrior and can still repeat his story.

When overwhelmed by doubt and distress, pause and reflect on the mighty deeds God has done in your life and throughout history. Let these memories renew your trust and strengthen your faith in His ongoing power and love.