I have been struggling lately with frustration.
I don’t understand why some people can thrive when they do “everything” wrong, and why people who do their best at all times are overlooked and ignored.
I crave encouragment & kind words, and become discouraged when “thank you” never seems to be said.
This week I came across Psalm 37. I’ve read it before, many times, but this time a few lines stood out (this is the Message translation):
Open up before God, keep nothing back;
he’ll do whatever needs to be done:
He’ll validate your life in the clear light of day
and stamp you with approval at high noon.
Quiet down before God,
be prayerful before him.
Don’t bother with those who climb the ladder,
who elbow their way to the top.
Bridle your anger, trash your wrath,
cool your pipes—it only makes things worse. (5-8)
Wait passionately for God,
don’t leave the path.
He’ll give you your place in the sun
while you watch the wicked lose it. (34)
It’s hard for me to sit back and, quite frankly, trust God to do what He promises in this situation. I would rather argue, get mad, fight for justice, and be on that ladder attempting to climb with grace.
Except God doesn’t want me to climb. He wants me to sit before him quietly, passionately waiting for Him to take care of me the way He promised. If I’m on the ladder, fighting my way to the top….I miss the blessing of His validation and approval.
