When my soul was embittered, when I was pricked in heart, I was stupid and ignorant; I was like a brute beast toward you. Nevertheless I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me with honor. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire other than you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Indeed, those who are far from you will perish; you put an end to those who are false to you. But for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, to tell of all your works. (Psa 73:21–28 NRSV)
I was reading this psalm this morning and it hit me like a ton of bricks. I often feel like the psalmist, carelessly going where the winds of life take me. I’m easily moved by anger, easily moved by bitterness, easily moved by self-pity. And when those times come I often make dumb decisions. Oh, I can often be like a brute beast toward God.
Yet the psalmist uses three words (well, one word and one phrase) that I believe are the most powerful words in all of life — “nevertheless” and “but God.” Even in those times when we are easily moved by anger, bitterness, self-pity — even when we make those bad decisions — nevertheless, we are deeply loved and held by God. Our hearts and flesh fail us often, but God is always our portion and strength.
Whatever you are struggling with this week, take it to God – your strength and portion.