Finding Solace and Rest in the Midst of Crises

by Andrew Arthur

Devotional thoughts on Psalm 16. 

A crisis can recalibrate the soul by drawing our prayers and praises Godward.

A recalibrated faith in Yahweh contrasts with those who take another god. Their sorrows multiply as they find themselves forsaken in times of need. Yet, solace for our sorrows will be found as we exercise faith in the faithfulness of God.

A bright future awaits all who belong to the Lord. He has drawn boundary lines of blessing around our lives. No crisis will carry us into Sheol. No crisis will result in our ultimate demise. Thus, we praise the Lord who reminds us of all the good He has planned for us. His counsel calms our troubled thoughts enabling us to find rest each evening. Though darkness resides where we stand, light twinkles in the horizon.

Prayers and praises do not have to rise high to reach God for He dwells here with us. His presence accompanies us as we wait for the fulfillment of His promises. Therefore, our hearts may be gladdened and our souls may be at rest even now. 

In moments of crisis, we direct our prayers and praises towards the God who sent the Savior to live, die, and rise again. Hebrews 12:2 tells us that the resurrected Savior kept rising until taking His seat at the right hand of the throne of God. Eternal pleasures and fulfillment of Divine promises are as secure and certain as the reign and rule of King Jesus. Thus, crises can recalibrate the soul by reminding us that all that ultimately matters exists beyond the reach of temporary trials. Our confidence cannot be shaken. Our joy cannot be destroyed. 

Let your prayers and praises rise in a Godward direction!

This blog was originally written and posted on hallowschurch.org on May 17–almost two years ago today at the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic and shutdown. How good is God’s Word that it can still provide hope and encouragement today even though the year is different and the crises potentially weighing on you and those around the world may be different?  Check out more devotions walking through the book of Psalms by scrolling down our blog page.

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Written by Dr. Andrew Arthur | Lead Pastor | The Hallows Church |  andrewarthur.info