While meditating on the scripture found in Psalms 42:5 recently, I came across a word from Bill Burns.

Join others crying out to the Lord day and night.

View Comments (3)

The scripture says, Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him For the help of His countenance. (Ps 42:5)

The word from Bill Burns confirmed what I was reading.

Years ago, when our one grandson was six years old, I was sitting alone in the kitchen when he walked in and picked up my frustration without us talking. Children easily pick up what we are going through inside. He turned around without saying a word and walked into the living room where my wife was and said to her, “Grandpa Bill needs to chill.” If that’s not a word for the body of Christ these days. With war raging all around and within us, I sense the Lord saying, “Chill! Enjoy the war. Enjoy every minute of it. Don’t waste it… because we win!” Chill out! (Bill Burns)

I believe the scripture found in Psalms and the words from Bill Burns are saying the same thing. Chill out! Trust God. We win!

Let’s look at some of the words in Psalm 42:5.

Cast down – bowing down to, in despair, weakened.

Disquieted – murmuring, growling, troubled, tossed about.

Hope – hope, expect, wait for.

Praise – confess, give thanks and praise.

In essence, God is saying.

“Why are you bowing down to fear and circumstances? Why are you allowing them to weaken you and get you in despair? Why are you murmuring and growling? Why are you troubled and wavering? Hope, expect and wait for Me to fulfill my Word. Confess the Word. Give thanks and praise Me.”

Have you ever felt that way? Weak and in despair? Have you been guilty of murmuring and complaining through your circumstances or about the world we live in today? I am not being critical at all. I, too, have battled fear. I have been guilty of allowing circumstances and everything around me to cause me to be discouraged and distressed. I, too have complained and murmured while awaiting an answer from God.

I love how the Passion Translation shares Psalm 42:5. So then, my soul, why would you be depressed? Why would you sink into despair? Just keep hoping and waiting on God, your Savior. For no matter what, I will still sing with praise, for you are my saving grace!

Whether you are facing personal battles or in despair over the atmosphere of our nation – this is a timely word for you and I. God alone is our saving grace, and He will not fail us. Our part is to continue to hope and wait on God, knowing He is faithful always.

Today, no matter the turmoil that surrounds you or the challenges you may face, consciously embrace the peace of God within. Intentionally cultivate inner peace by immersing yourself in God’s Word, allowing its wisdom and comfort to resonate deeply in your heart. Instead of fixating on the chaos around you, redirect your focus to the profound truths in scripture. Place your hope firmly in God. Speak forth His promises, affirm His goodness, and lift your voice in heartfelt praise. Let each moment be an opportunity to declare His name, finding strength and solace in His presence.

What did you think of this article? Share your reflections with us in the comments below.

Kim Potter is the author of Deeper Still, a 90-day devotional on a deeper relationship with God. She is also the founder of A New Thing Ministries, which sends a daily teaching to thousands of people all around the world. Her articles have appeared on The Elijah List, in Charisma Magazine, and on Spirit Fuel and iBelieve.com. Kim’s message is one of hope. She speaks to the hearts of those who have grown discouraged or disappointed by the circumstances of life, to impart hope. To order her new book or receive her daily encouraging writings, visit her website at www.anewthingministries.com, or Books Archives – A New Thing Ministries. Photo Credit: PublicDomainArchive/pixabay.