There are moments in life when God feels distant, when prayers appear to rise solely to fall again down in silence. Most of us who’ve been strolling with God for some time now know that solely too properly. David, the person after God’s coronary heart (1 Sam. 13:14; Acts 13:22), additionally knew that feeling. In Psalm 22, he cried out in anguish, questioning God’s absence (vv. 1-2). His ache was uncooked, his questions sincere, and his hope appeared skinny. Nevertheless, proper there within the midst of despair, he used a phrase that modified every part—”but” (v. 3).
“But you might be holy.” That small phrase marks an important shift. It turns the center from despair towards hope, from confusion towards confidence. David’s “but” was not a denial of the challenges he confronted; it was an act of religion within the midst of them. Although he couldn’t really feel God’s presence, he declared God’s holiness. Bible scholar Albert Barnes places it this manner: “This means that the sufferer had nonetheless unwavering confidence in God. Although his prayer appeared to not be heard, and although he was not delivered, he was not disposed responsible God.” The “but” grew to become the hinge between sorrow and give up, between what David felt and what he knew to be true.
The phrase “but” is highly effective as a result of it indicators defiance in opposition to hopelessness. It’s the whisper that claims, “I’ll nonetheless belief.” While you say “but,” you select religion over finality. You acknowledge the truth of ache however refuse to let it outline your future. “I’m weary, but I’ll reward. I’m ready, but I’ll consider. I’m damaged, but I’ll hope.” The “but” retains your worship alive when your world feels empty.
In case you are in a season of unanswered prayers or silent nights, let your coronary heart study the language and the ability of “but.” The identical God who appeared distant to David was the God who delivered him. The identical God who felt removed from the cross was the God who raised Jesus from the grave. So stand agency in your “but,” for on the opposite facet of it lies resurrection, restoration, and renewal. What a part of your life wants a “but” immediately? The place is God calling you to belief Him even if you can not see His hand?
