Psalm 102:13

New King James Version

You will arise and have mercy on Zion;
For the time to favor her,
Yes, the set time, has come.

Your Encouragement

Optimism!

That is the attitude of faith, which settles the heart and brings peace to a soul under assault by terrible forces, extreme circumstances, and great distress. That soul does not succumb to anything but looks to draw strength from the only Person who endured the most cruelty and pain on the cross and scorned its shame—Jesus Christ, our Savior (Heb. 2:2).

In Psalm 102, the Psalmist expresses his deep anguish, pain, and suffering vividly (3-8) as he pleads for God’s attention and mercy. Their wickedness provoked God into anger and punishment, resulting in their national and personal suffering. Babylon had been instructive, and now he laments and calls on the Lord to hear His cry and petition (1-2).

The Psalmist views God as enthroned forever, whose fame goes through all generations (12). The Psalmist is confident that God will arise and show mercy to Zion. His anger is for a short time, but His compassion never fails. It will shine forth in His set time because of His irrevocable covenant with His people (13). What assurance that brings peace to the soul!

Can you relate to the Psalmist’s steadfast trust this morning?

Remember, you too have a covenant relationship with God through the blood of Jesus. You can therefore expect Him to arise to show you mercy and give you His grace to help in this time of your need (Hebrews 4:16).

Therefore, rest in the assurance of His favor as you plead for it today, recalling His Passion, and may His peace wrap around you and calm your fears in Jesus Christ. Amen!

Shalom and good morning.