RPG Adults
A PRAYER OF THE AFFLICTED, AND POURING OUT HIS COMPLAINT BEFORE THE LORD
LORD’S DAY, APRIL 21
Psalm 102:1-28
Romans 8:17-28
God will provide.
A PRAYER OF THE AFFLICTED, AND POURING OUT HIS COMPLAINT BEFORE THE LORD
Psalm 102 is a prayer far more in spirit than in words. A strong stream of supplication runs from beginning to end. It is a prayer of the afflicted or the “sufferer.” It is not a penitential Psalm, for the sorrow of it is rather of one suffering than sinning.
The sufferer is more afflicted for others than for himself. More for Zion and the House of God than for his own house. He is overwhelmed and sorely troubled. When a cup is overwhelmed and turned bottom over, all that is within is naturally poured out. So is the soul poured out without restraint. But here comes the grace of God to refill it. The afflicted’s mourning is turned into consolation.
This Psalm may be called the Patriot’s Plaint.
Division:
1. Outpouring of sorrow (vv.1-11)
2. The gracious Lord and His care for His people (vv.12-28).
The whole composition may be compared to a day which, opening with wind and rain, clears up at noon and is warm with the sun, continues fine, with intervening showers, and finally closes with a brilliant sunset. Are the wind and rain beating down on you? Or is the warmth of the sun enveloping your life now? Whatever the day is like, look up to the Lord. He cares for you.
THOUGHT: (Read Psalm 102:8.)
PRAYER: (Use Psalm 102:1.)