When we watch a television series, we feel happy when the good people triumph over the bad ones, and they live happily ever after. Perhaps we feel dissatisfied if the conclusion is the opposite. Or maybe we feel that it is not right that the bad people in the show get away with the evil doings. Do we feel the same with our lives in reality? Are we affected by unhappy events? In the Bible, David was a man after God’s own heart, but he had to escape from Saul because Saul wanted to kill David out of jealousy. We may feel that it is unreasonable that a man like David had to go through these unnecessary troubles. How do we cope when we feel like this? Psalm 37 offers some help. 

Trust in the Lord, and do good (Psalm 37:3)

As God’s children, it is unavoidable that we meet with injustice and things that we think are unfair to us. Often, the unscrupulous people seemingly get the better deal. Do you get passed over for promotions, get lower salary increments or poorer examination results than those who are against God? Or perhaps you think it is better to do what the people of the world are doing so that we do not lose out? Apostle Peter reminds us “For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men” (1 Pet 2:15). When the children of God understand what pleases God, we will strive to do good even in an unbelieving world. We will trust in the Lord and seek the strength to be able to continue to do things that are pleasing unto God. 

Commit thy way unto the Lord (Psalm 37:5)

We will face numerous problems in life. These problems can become burdens that add pressure. Sometimes we feel that these burdens are overbearing. If we do not deal with them properly, we may impair our health. David the psalmist said “Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me?” (Psa 42:5, 11). But David further encouraged us by saying “hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance” (Psa 42:5, 11). Indeed, we thank God for allowing us to come and give Him our burdens (Psa 68:19). 

Cease from anger and wait for the Lord (Psalm 37:7-8)

When we have given our best efforts but the results are not up to our expectation, will we be disappointed or be angry? We may wonder why people who do not know God do so well! We place too much emphasis on things we did not achieve and do not see what God has planned for us. David encouraged us to be patient and wait for the Lord. When we wait for the Lord, our perspective shifts from that of a man to God’s own. In such a way, we will be able to trust in the Lord that He will lead and guide us. 

Dear friends, when we feel that justice is not done, stop and take stock. Do not let our emotions affect our relationship with God. Do not let these “setbacks” affect our service and lose our joy in the Lord. I pray that God will help us and lead us.

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