Psalm 94:17 – Unless the LORD had been my help, my soul had almost dwelt in silence.
While the doctrinal content of Psalm 94 undoubtedly refers to the Great Tribulation, there remains much practical truth for any child of God facing adversity (vs. 13). God has promised to never leave us, even though the world has turned against us.
We are helped by God’s presence (vs. 17). The solitariness of the Christian life is sometimes overwhelming. Often Christians must stand alone at work because there are no other believers. Sometimes it is family that must be forsaken, and often friends. There is a silence as well. Who can you talk with and fellowship with? Thankfully we have the Lord’s presence. We are truly never alone, and as long as we have Him; He’s all we need.
Then we are held up by God’s mercy (vs. 18). The fact of slipping is a reality. You are going to slip up and sin. But thank God, He has made provision for us by the blood of Christ! Don’t let the fear of slipping hinder your spiritual growth. The Lord will hold you up and give you another chance! He is the God not only of second chances, but third, fourth, fifth… There is forgiveness when we slip! He is merciful and gentle!
We can be delighted by God’s comforts (vs. 19). The plurality of our thoughts and the persecution of our thoughts often overwhelm us. The pressure of evil is dominating our world and culture. Anxiety and depression are very common even among believers. But God extends peace in our thoughts if we keep our mind on Him (Isa. 26:3) and leave everything to Him (Phil. 4:6).
Finally we are defended by God’s judgments (vs. 22). In God we have a place of refuge and restraint, knowing that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Rom. 12:19). He will defend and take care of His own. Rest in these truths; they will help your soul!
