Say to God, “How awesome are your deeds!” (Psalm 66:3, ESV)
The overarching lesson of the Psalms can be summarized in just a few words, “Lord, how awesome are your deeds!”
Can you say this phrase right now? Are there difficulties in your life that make it hard to rejoice in the Lord?
I consider Psalm 66 a before, during, and after tribulation psalm. This psalm gives advice on how to prepare for trials, what to do in the midst of them, and what should happen afterward.
How do we prepare for trials?
Shout for joy to God, all the earth; sing the glory of his name; give to him glorious praise! (v. 1)
Rejoicing is a theme throughout the Bible. The Apostle Paul says that we are to “rejoice always” (Philippians 4:7). And James, the Lord’s brother, has to tell us to “consider it all joy when we encounter various trials” (James 1:2).
We prepare for trials by praising God. And only with other believers can we fully worship Him.
The reason I attend church is not the sermon, talking to other believers, correct doctrine, the right emphasis on the Spirit, or the coffee served free in the foyer. The reason I attend church is to worship an amazing God with fellow pilgrims.
I go to church to worship and receive a renewing of spirit that can’t be found in the solitary confinement of forsaking the assembly of the saints.
What do we do in the midst of trials?
Seems odd, but Psalm 66 teaches us to review our vows during difficulty.
I will come into your house with burnt offerings; I will perform my vows to you (v. 13).
Often our trials come from slippage. We haven’t been listening to the Spirit, perhaps drinking a glass or two more of alcohol each day and acting more irritable—nothing too obvious, just a slow compromise.
During our difficult moments, we should evaluate for lukewarm behavior. It’s too easy to blame God and others when we find ourselves in turmoil. Psalm 66 teaches that God allows some trials for a reason.
If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened. But truly God has listened; he has attended to the voice of my prayer (vv. 18-19).
What should we do after trials?
We should proclaim…
Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will tell what he has done for my soul (v. 16).
The Book of Revelation says that we overcome evil by our testimony (Revelation 12:11). The goodness of God is best experienced by enduring through tribulation to victory.
Cheap victories, without cost, produce shallow joy!
I recently heard a pastor talk about losing his wife, the difficulties of recovering from that loss, and his current experience of peace with God. It was a “pin drop” moment as the audience listened in silence.
This preacher’s testimony had an authenticity of hope that deeply ministered to the congregation.
By preparation, reflection, and resultant victory, it is possible for all of us to agree with Psalm 66…
Blessed be God, because he has not rejected my prayer or removed his steadfast love from me! (v. 20)
God, how awesome are your deeds!
Amen, Peace out!