Psalm 119:49-56.    

I’ve read this psalm probably dozens of times over the years, and I just noticed something for the first time: it is written in the present tense. That means that verse 50 is the psalmist’s present circumstances: “My comfort in my suffering is this: Your promise preserves my life.”

The psalmist isn’t looking back over a lifetime of pain. The psalmist is currently suffering, and yet chooses to see that God offers comfort and grace in the present circumstances.

That’s huge. So often, in the middle of my pain, I’m busy whining and moaning about the unfairness of life. I’m lamenting and crying out about the isolation I feel. Worse yet, I am challenging and debating the God of love as to His work in my life. I miss the whole thing. He is right beside me. Closer than any friend or family member. So close that there is not a hair’s breadth of distance between us.

Yet it’s only when I acknowledge His presence—turn toward Him in my heart and soul—that I am comforted and find peace. Let us all learn to turn toward Him, every day in every way, and consistently receive the blessing of His presence.

Author: Jennifer Coffman