KEEPING THE FAITH

PSALM 88

O Lord, God of my salvation, I have cried out day and night before You

(Psalm 88:1).

Psalm 88 contains grievous lamentations, poured forth by its inspired writer who is under severe affliction. He has been driven nearly to the point of despair. Some think he had leprosy and penned this psalm while in isolation. Others think he was a prisoner shut away in the darkness, or a slave in chains. Whatever the circumstance, it is clear the author was overwhelmed with fear and dread like never before in his life. Yet, while struggling with sorrow, he revealed the steadfastness of his faith, which he displayed in calling upon God to deliver him even when he was in the deep darkness of death.

Three times the psalmist cried to God for deliverance from his pain and suffering. While he struggled with doubt as to God’s intentions for his life, while his faith was buffeted by the horror of his circumstance, he still turned to God. He recognized that God was in control of even his suffering, that the judgments placed upon him were according to God’s righteousness; therefore, he looked to God for relief. Many people in the church question whether weak faith is true faith. They wonder whether a true Christian can be afraid in the midst of affliction yet still have faith. This psalm supplies us with the assurance that even though we might struggle with despair, we needn’t lose our faith. We should not ask how much faith is enough to be considered a Christian, but whether that faith, however weak, is sincere faith.

Calvin asked how the psalmist’s doubt agreed with true faith. He answered his own question, saying, “It is true that when the heart is in perplexity and doubt, or rather is tossed hither and thither, faith seems to be swallowed up. But experience teaches us, that faith, while it fluctuates amidst these agitations, continues to rise again from time to time, so as not to be overwhelmed; and if at any time it is at the point of being stifled, it is nevertheless sheltered and cherished, for though the tempests may become violent, it shields itself from them by reflecting that God continues faithful, and never disappoints or forsakes His own children.” When we have fears, Christ Himself strengthens our faith and gives us the ability to call out to Him for help and comfort.

CORAM DEO

Psalms 34–35

Acts 22:1–16

Read 2 Timothy 2:11–13. What is God’s promise to you if you are unfaithful? What is the difference between being faithless and disowning Christ? How can a Christian have weak faith but not disown Christ? How does His phrase “He cannot disown Himself” give you assurance?

For further study: Deut. 7:1–11 • 1 Cor. 1:4–9 • 2 Thess. 3:1–3 • Heb. 10:19–23

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