We continued our Bible studies on the Psalms of Lament tonight, looking at two psalms written by individuals (Ps 69 and Ps 77). Ps 69 could be said to be a Messianic or prophetic psalm, looking ahead to the Suffering Saviour prophesied by Isaiah (Is 52-53), and is referred to nine times in the New Testament (John 15:25, John 2:17, Romans 15:3, Matthew 27:34, 48; Mark 15:36; Luke 23:36; John 19:28, 29, Rom 11:9-10, Acts 1:20). It gives us insight into suffering and complaint, with the image of drowning in mire showing us how easy it is to feel overwhelmed by sorrow and injustice.
Both psalms list complaints frankly and without reserve (e.g. Ps 69:1-3, Ps 77:1-3) and may even reflect the imprecatory cursing we discussed last time (Ps 69:22-28), but there is always a pivot point, a tipping point, a hinge which keeps the psalm from wallowing in self-pity and looks ahead to the hope God brings.
In Ps 69:13 the change is heralded by the word ‘but’, as the psalmist contemplates God’s love, sure salvation and ability to deliver. In Ps 77, the change comes when the psalmist’s thinking is refocussed onto God’s mighty deeds and miraculous works. (Ps 77:10-15). The key to renewed hope is to have our minds fixed on what God has previously done for His people. Such thoughts will provide us with ‘songs in the night’ (Ps 77:6), which in turn will sustain through the difficult times of lament and lead us ‘through the mighty waters’, even when God’s footprints cannot be seen (Ps 77:19). Lament does not have to end with lament, but can be the painful pathway to praise. As Matt Redman reminds us, ‘if the highest praise is a sacrifice/ and the greatest song is to give my life/ Then I will not bring You that which cost me nothing.’ (‘Place of Praise’)