Psalm 102

 



Psalm 102 is one of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143), likely written after the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. The psalmist feels alone as he is derided by enemies. He pours out his heart to the LORD in the midst of his overwhelming afflictions, for his distresses have caused physical and emotional strains. BUT, verse 12 is a turning point as the psalmist shifts his focus to the LORD and His eternal promises. What started as a desperate lament ends with hope for the future.

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:

  • Verses 1-2
    • What distresses do I need to pour out to the LORD?
  • Verses 3-11
    • What do these verses show me about possible physical and emotional strains of afflictions in this life?
  • Verses 12-28
    • How can our perspectives change when we shift from focusing on our troubles to seeing God and His promises instead?
    • What do these verses show us about future generations?
    • Verses 25-27 are quoted in Hebrews 1:10-12.  What does the New Testament reference add to our understanding of this psalm?

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:

  • "Dark Was the Night" (Psalm 102) by the War Within:  Link

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