“Mine enemies reproach me all the day; and they that are mad against me are sworn against me.”
(Psalm 102:8)
In Psalm 102, the author uses a series of vivid poetic metaphors to convey the depths of affliction and sorrow he is experiencing, “my days disappear like smoke, my bones burn like red hot coals, my heart withers like grass, I lie awake, lonely as a solitary bird on the roof.” Distresses like these recorded in Scripture remind us that we are not alone in times of suffering. Such passages can also bring comfort to God’s children across the ages, affirming that the Heavenly Father takes note of our affliction and is present with us in our suffering.
One metaphor the psalmist uses in this passage is that of smoke from a fire that soon vanishes. Similarly, our energy and enthusiasm for living can be consumed by difficulties to the point where we feel as if our days evaporate like smoke into the atmosphere. Or a prolonged experience of what is often referred to as “the dark night of the soul” can sap the strength of even the strongest saint, leaving their bones feeling as if they were “burned like coals in the fire.”
Yet another metaphor the psalmist uses speaks to the diminishing courage of one whose heart is dismayed to the point that it withers like grass. He also describes how the basic comforts of life can lose their significance, causing one to even forget to eat. Such heaviness of sorrow is difficult to suppress, so much so that sighs and groans become a necessary outlet for the pain.
We know from Christ’s words to His disciplines in John 16:33, “in this world you will have trouble.” God’s children may face reproach and even persecution and death from those who oppose their faith. For if Christ was mocked and ridiculed, will not His disciples be also?
But God Himself may choose to lead His children into the fires of trial from time to time in order to purify our hearts, test our faith, and deepen and mature our relationship with Him.
“Affliction and sorrow serve as a reminder that suffering is a part of the disciples of Christ and their Christian experience, especially as God’s dear children.”[1] However, we can find hope and comfort… and even joy (James 1:2) in knowing that Christ our King remains sovereign, even in the midst of our trials and suffering.
Contemplations:
- Facing Reproaches and Cruelty: God’s children are often subjected to reproaches and cruelty from those who oppose our faith. This painful reality can be the source of discouragement and multiplied suffering. And yet throughout Scripture we are encouraged to be strong in the Lord, remembering that we are more than conquerors through Him (Romans 8:37).
- Perceiving God’s Anger: There are times I experience grief in my soul and I know it’s due to God’s displeasure with my choices. But when I allow my grief to lead me to a place of confession and repentance, fellowship with my Lord is restored. I am reminded that God’s mercy endures forever, and that He hears the prayers of a contrite heart.
- Contrasting Prosperity and Adversity: God’s people periodically experience intermittent seasons of blessings and prosperity from the Father, as well as times of adversity. We’re naturally drawn to times of prosperity, but I must remember that God uses adversity to draw me closer to Him. I am reminded, especially in times of difficulty, that I can trust Him implicitly for He is always in control, and His plan will unfold according to His perfect timing.
- Solitude in Suffering: In moments of deep sorrow, we can feel isolated, like a sparrow alone on the housetop. Yet, even in our solitude God is with us. And He assures and reassures us of His presence all throughout Scripture (Isaiah 41:10).
Further References for Psalm 102:8:
Psalm 31:11; Isa. 65:15; Exod. 22:28; Acts 23:12
[1] David Dickson, A Brief Explication of the Last Fifty Psalms from Ps. 100 to the End (London: T.R. and E.M. for Tho. Johnson .., 1654), 10.
