when it all feels bad

“At the set time that I appoint

I will judge with equity.

When the earth totters, and all its inhabitants,

it is I who keep steady its pillars.” Selah

Psalm 75:2-3

Whether it is processing natural disaster that has brought unbelievable destruction and death, or just looking at a truly sick world that is unhealthy in nearly every aspect (pandemic, societal unrest, economic uncertainty, and moral abandonment), this psalm is a firm reminder that God is very much in control. He has appointed His time to deal with all of this. We feel the world is tottering and reeling, but God keeps the pillars firm. And those who trust in God can be confident even while all these pressuring issues demand our attention and lead us to the temptations of fear and unbelief.

God steadies the world as its pillars wobble. It is held firm by the cross and the foundation of an empty tomb. He has done so since the start of the worldwide pandemic. He still steadies us, even as this virus continues unabated and humbles science, dealing out still more rounds of sickness and death. God provides comfort for all loss, not only from disease, but from disaster. And no tornadic storm, hurricane, or blizzard is unknown or a surprise to Him. These tragedies call humanity to trust in the power and mercies of a God Who holds us steady, even as we wrestle with these losses and changes. As world population grows, these storms and natural events continue to get our attention. Yet our attention should, as this psalm calls us, be pointed to the God Who holds us secure amid our uncertainty.

And in a human society rife with the ongoing aftermath of evil, we must trust that God has appointed His means to judge with fairness in the time He has determined. God sees the wrong and will render His judgment. Innocents are still slaughtered. Injustice still marginalizes many people. Power is often corrupted by the powerful. Economies can fail us. And as prices go higher, the richest seem to only prosper more. It is a painful realization on a day-to-day level. Yet it is not the wealthy who have the true power. Riches cannot save. It is God Who keeps the pillars!

Ancient Israelites sang this song, in the first person, reminding themselves of what God Himself says and personally promises: 

• “I will fairly judge in the time that I appoint.”
• “I will keep you safe when it feels like everything else is shaking.”

In worship, my soul sings these truths too.