Recipe for Life

David, the Psalm writer, often encourages me with his writings. Some time ago I read Psalm 27 through Psalm 30 and noticed a progression I had missed before. I noted four distinct phases of life that are often repeated as we go through daily situations and activities. When I’m faced with a difficult situation I often start worrying about how I will handle or solve the problem. Instead, David reminds me to seek the Lord’s help. 

Psalm 27: 1-2 says “The Lord is my light and my salvation–whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life of whom shall I be afraid?” 

Then David concludes that Psalm with “Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord” (verse 14). Waiting is hard, isn’t it? Right now I’m waiting. My dog, Molly, tore a ligament in her leg and required surgery. We are facing 8 to 12 weeks of recovery during which she must be walked on a leash along with a sling to support her back legs. We are not enjoying this waiting for healing! But we must. She is doing well and we’re trying to be patient. 

While we wait, Daivd goes on to say in Psalm 28:7. “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped.” Knowing I am not alone in the waiting encourages my spirit. God has answered prayers for healing for Molly. Stitches are out and she is no longer taking meds.  

Then David begins Psalm 29 with praise and worship to God. “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name; worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness” (verse 2).  Worship is followed by peace. “The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace” (Ps 29:11). Ever wonder why we don’t have peace? Could it be that our worship of the Almighty is lacking? I surely find myself at this point sometimes. God desires our fellowship with Him. I want to strengthen my desire to spend time with Him. 

David continues his worship of God into Psalm 30 with these words “Sing to the Lord, you saints of his; praise his holy name” (verse 4). He continues with “You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever” (verses 11-12). 

I have reduced these phases to fit a 3 by 5 card to remind me often of my Source of help and strength, no matter what I’m facing. Consider it a Recipe for Life.

Psalm 27: Wait for the Lord – Be strong – Take heart.

Psalm 28: The Lord is my Strength, my shield. My heart trusts in Him and He        helps me. 

Psalm 29: Worship precedes peace. The Lord blesses His people with peace. 

Psalm 30: He turned wailing into dancing. I will give thanks forever.