Suffering Does Not Separate You From the Love of God
There will be times of hardship in this life that are perplexing. The psalmist in Psalm 44 lays out his struggles in this very regard and shows us how to deal with prolonged and unexplainable suffering.
The psalmist begins by expressing confidence in God’s past provision and grace. He remembers hearing of the mighty works of God (44:1-3). It is on the basis of God’s covenant that the psalmist has confidence for the present and the future (44:4-8). He declares “You are my King, O God!” Brethren, you can see God’s power and grace in the Scriptures, and can have confidence in troubling times.
The psalmist then cries out to God about the devastating effect of his trials (44:9-16). He feels that like God has rejected him (44:9). He is overwhelmed by his plight and wonders if God cares for his people in their afflictions (44:11-16). Brethren, you can be reverently honest with God with how you feel in the midst of trials.
The psalmist cries out that his prolonged suffering is not discipline from the Lord for his sin. He has not forgotten God or lessened His commitment to God’s Law (44:17-18). As proof, he says that if he were guilty of idolatry, God would expose his sin (44:20–21). Brethren, you must examine yourself and ask God to show you if your suffering is because of your sin.
The psalmist is frustrated and perplexed with God’s lack of answer to his troubles. Like the sacrificial sheep, he seems to be facing death for no other reason than for the Lord’s sake (44:22-26). He knows that in his adversity God’s love is unchanging (44:26). Brethren, know that even in the midst of unexplainable troubles, nothing can separate you from the love of God.
