We come back to the Psalms of Ascent. And as we come specifically to look at Psalm 131 – prepare to be challenged – or even offended. On the face of it this seems like your average Psalm – interesting and instructive perhaps, but a run-of-the-mill Psalm nonetheless. But as we dig just a little into this Psalm – prepare to be challenged – even offended. 

As we turn to Psalm 131, we begin not with its opening words but with its conclusion. In the third verse of this three verse Palm we read: “O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time on and for evermore.” O Israel, hope in the Lord from this time on and forevermore. When we first hear those words, we might jump to the conclusion that they are words spoken by or to someone who is in trouble – someone who is experiencing pain or suffering – someone who needs help. Thought of in this way, these words become a reminder: “Yes, you’re going through a difficult time, but God will help you through it. You can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel, but there will be light – the God of Jesus Christ will bring you out of the darkness. Be patient. Hope in the Lord.

Now, in other Psalms, in other contexts, that would be a good interpretation of verse 3. Very reasonable. We often hear such words of reassurance in scripture – and often need to hear them. Continue reading →