My Desperation and God's Glory - Psalm 102:11-12

"My life passes as swiftly as the evening shadows. I am withering away like grass. But you, O Lord, will sit on your throne forever. Your fame will endure to every generation" (Psalm 102:11-12, NLT).

These two verses contrast the eternal and enduring nature of God with the brief and transitory nature of human beings. They transition this psalm from the topic of human desperation and misery (vs. 1-11) to the topic of God's glory (vs. 12-17).

Have you ever noticed how clearly you can perceive the goodness and greatness of God when you are suffering and in need of His help?

It is often in our desperation that we persistently seek God and draw closer to Him to find His help.

And we have this confidence that we can desperately cry out to God for help and He will come to our aid: "He will listen to the prayers of the destitute. He will not reject their pleas" (vs. 17).

When we are suffering, we especially need the assurance of an Absolute One on Whom we can depend to protect and secure us and help us thrive once again: "But you are always the same, you will live forever. The children of your people will live in security. Their children's children will thrive in your presence" (vs. 27-28).

So in your desperation you can find reassurance and consolation by focusing not on your misery but by celebrating the everlasting goodness and glory of God.

"So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me." (2 Corinthians 12:9, NLT)