The Power of an Image

Ps. 102:1-11

As the psalmist pours out his heart to God, he conveys so much more than words by creating an image to describe his situation. Because he is severely afflicted and in distress, he petitions God to answer him speedily. Why should God do this? Because,

• His days pass away like smoke.
• His bones burn like a furnace.
• His heart is struck down like grass and has withered.
• He is like a desert owl of the wilderness.
• He is like an owl of the waste places.
• He is like a lonely sparrow on the housetop.
• He eats bread like ashes.
• His days are like an evening shadow.
• He withers away like grass.

Along with these images, he states some facts about himself as well.

• He forgets to eat his bread.
• He lies awake.
• His enemies taunt him and use his name for a curse.
• His tears mingle with his drink.

Whoa! This guy is in bad shape. But the neat thing is that he has come to God to resolve these issues. Later in the psalm he states that God is sovereign, enthroned forever. In his great power, he laid the foundations of the world and will establish his children. Because of His constant and unending power, the psalmist knows that God can meet his need as well. So he cries out with everything in his being! He has declared his helplessness before God and now he waits for God to answer.

Father,
Draw me ever to You in my times of need. Constantly show me the foolishness of trying to resolve my issues on my own. Teach me to wait and trust in You.
In Jesus name,
Amen