By Rukiya Davis
Lectionary reading for 3/14/2022: Psalm 105:1-42; Exodus 33:1-6; Romans 4:1-12
Selected passage for reflection: Psalm 105:1-42
Read
Select verses from Psalm 105 (New International Version)
4 Look to the LORD and his strength; seek his face always.
5 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced,
8 He remembers his covenant forever, the promise he made, for a thousand generations,
15 “Do not touch my anointed ones; do my prophets no harm.”
43 He brought out his people with rejoicing, his chosen ones with shouts of joy;
Reflect
The weight of the past couple of years have left a residue of uncertainty, uneasiness, for some clarity and opportunities to refocus. As Christian believers and followers we are expected to always have a positive perspective. The past two years have also been a journey of a mixture of emotions. Learning how to manage our emotions instead of the emotions leading us is a skill that requires us to first recognize where we are.
Psalm 105 takes you through a variety of emotions, a journey of ups and downs, certainties and uncertainties. The text is a reminder of difficult times and yet to remember the promises of God. The text reminds us of the struggles, heartbreak, and trauma’s that generations before us have endured.
Several generations before us also learned how to live through difficulties in spite of. Verse 4 and 5 remind us to remember the promises of God. Verse 8 says that God has and will not ever forget his promises, “the promise he made, for a thousand generations''. The text goes on to remind us of the struggles of God's people, how they “were few in numbers,” feeling like strangers. I can assume they were combating the feelings of unsettledness, overwhelmed by negative thinking and emotions. The troubles of life can feel heavy at times however the promises that have been given to us will always supersede whatever we face.
God is still in control, even when our emotions are getting the best of us as we reflect on where we are right now. Our generation is still experiencing a global pandemic and the good news is that God is not surprised by all of this. “Touch not my anointed”, we are called and selected by God to fulfill our individual assignments.
He has kept generations before us and will continue to do the same. Remember what God has done. When triggered by negative thoughts of “what if”, remember what God has done and promised. In times like these, music can also be a comfort. Let the lyrics below guide you in your moments of reflection, prayer, and strength.
He’s Able—Darwin Hobbs
Exceedingly, abundantly Above all, all you could ask or think According to, the power That worketh in you, you... God is able to do just what he said he would do He's gonna fulfill every promise to you Don't give up on God, cause he won't give up on you He's able
God is able to do just what he said he would do He's gonna fulfill every promise to you Don't give up on God, cause He won't give up on you He's able He's able
Respond
What self-care activities can I do to help manage my emotions? (Take a walk, reading, journaling, positive music, stretching, deep breathing, spending time with pets)
When battling worry and negative thoughts practice replacing negative thoughts with positive thoughts. (What has God done for you/others? What is a blessing in this moment?)
If you’re consistently overwhelmed by negative emotions and thoughts, don’t suffer in silence. Seek professional therapeutic support, your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Take care of YOU.
Rest
God you are with me, you see me, my path is not hidden. Lord, I ask for your strength to endure this journey. You are good, you will carry us through and keep your promises.
About the Author
Rukiya Davis is a licensed clinical social worker and minister. She has over 15 years of experience in ministry and the mental health field. She continues to be passionate about the mental health needs of others. Rukiya currently works as a clinical social worker for Chicago Public Schools.