Over the years, I have purchased a number of "….. for dummies" books related to computers, home improvement, car maintenance and a number of other topics. The "….. for dummies" series of publications began in 1991 with the publication of DOS for Dummies by Dan Gookin. The books were created to help people who were struggling to understand new technology. They then morphed into many other topics like Chess for Dummies and Fishing for Dummies due to their popularity. I equate them to the "Easy Button" made famous by Staples office supply store in that we as humas are always looking for a more simpler way to comprehend information, complete a task, convey our thoughts, improve our skills, etc. Our Christian walk is no different. How can we comprehend an all-powerful, all-knowing, all-present and perfect God when we are so flawed? We need a simpler, concise way to understand our role in God's plan. We need an easy button. Psalm 34 provides that for us.
Psalm 34 is packed with many themes conveying instruction, hope, love, purpose, resolve, faith, praise, and exaltation. In this beautiful Psalm, David touches on how we should be living our lives as faithful followers of our King. The Psalm begins with one of the most difficult things we face on a daily basis. While it is easy to praise God during joyful times, Psalm 34, verse 1 calls us to "praise the LORD at all times". We don't always get an easy button to make life easier. As Christians we face the same challenges that bestow everyone. We don't get a pass because of our faith in Jesus. He didn't get a pass when he carried the cross, was crucified for OUR sins, and gave his life for OUR eternal salvation. Psalm 34 reminds us that God will answer all of our prayers in HIS time. He will surround us, protect us, and ensure our NEEDS are met. He will rescue us during our troubled times and provide the peace for us to work through all of the struggles in this life. He doesn't promise that it will be EASY, but he does promise that it will be WORTH IT. He hears our cries for help, rejoices with us, frees us from the guilt and shame of sin, and surrounds us at ALL times. We know that the Lord is good and deserves our praises at ALL times. Let us Exalt his Name together.
Thank you for sharing these great thoughts, Cory. Even though we don't get a pass, knowing that God is leading us through any situation - whether good or bad - is so comforting and reassuring.