Psalms for the Weary

Poetry is special. Sometimes the rhythm or rhyme holds the reader’s attention, but always at the center of good poetry is a picture painted or an emotion provoked by the language employed in the writing. Entire wings of libraries have been dedicated to poetry of varying kinds from writers throughout human history. When God provided humankind with His own library of inspired books, He provided sections of poetry designed to offer counsel and comfort to the soul. Among the poetic works contained in Scripture are the psalms, and several of them were written to express sorrow and deep depression, so that humankind would find camaraderie in the words of others and lean on God even in the darkest of times. Below are a few psalms that may aid those who are struggling and weary amid life's difficulties today. Each one was inspired by our Creator to accurately portray the authors' emotions, so that people throughout time would find comfort and strength in them. Take what you need, and remember, God always provides.

• Psalm 88 centers on the difficult time when friends and loved ones are gone, and the pain of separation is sharpest. The author is desperate for God’s help, but there is no immediate answer. Some days end with questions, not solutions. Though you are weary, know that God is listening and Jesus sympathizes with your struggles.

• Psalm 11 expresses trust in God while the wicked assail the righteous. The fourth verse is the center of the psalm and must not be overlooked. God is looking for those who prove their faith during their trials. Prove yourself and receive His blessings.

• Psalm 55 is a particularly mournful psalm. In it, David expresses the hurt caused by a friend’s betrayal. He wishes he could just go and be alone, but rather than sulking, David trusts the Lord to care for the righteous and punish the wicked.

The psalms will be your best friends and counselors if you take the time to get to know them. God gave them to help us put words with our feelings, knowing that we often struggle to do that very task. Through the psalms, let God help you find the words.