The Shadow Of Death; The Song Of Life.

In Sunday’s sermon, Pastor Sam encouraged us to remember the good things God has done for His people. As we remember our experiences of God in the past, we can be hopeful even in the face of present trials. Our pastor exhorted us to continue reflecting on the greatness of God as we live “in a world that is the valley of the shadow of death”. Our God, who is with us in exile, is the God who has poured His life into us: he can cause our hearts to rejoice!

Today let us read and consider Psalm 126, a psalm Pastor Sam referenced towards the end of the sermon. Some of us may even want to memorize it, so that as we go through our difficult days we can recall these encouraging words.

Lord God, we remember Your track record. You have done great things in our past; there is nothing that can hinder You from doing great things in our future. We praise You even as we see and experience the hardships of life in a fallen world. We trust You in full expectation of Your word and Your will being fulfilled in the earth. We love You and thank You for hearing the prayer of our hearts.

Psalm 126 (New International Version)

When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,
    we were like those who dreamed.
Our mouths were filled with laughter,
    our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
    “The Lord has done great things for them.”
The Lord has done great things for us,
    and we are filled with joy.

Restore our fortunes, Lord,
    like streams in the Negev.
Those who sow with tears
    will reap with songs of joy.
Those who go out weeping,
    carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
    carrying sheaves with them.