February 16, 2023

Scripture: Psalm 126:4-6 – “Restore our fortunes, Lord, like streams in the Negev. 5 Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. 6 Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them.”

What it means

This psalm is entitled “A song of ascents”…in other words, beginning an upwards trajectory from a lower place. Psalm 126 is attributed to King Ezra, and in it, he speaks of the people of Zion having their fortunes restored, and how much joy and laughter overwhelmed them when things began to turn for the better. He then continues his prayer in asking God to do the same for them – “Restore our fortunes Lord”, just like He did for the people of Zion. He recognizes that the power of God has the ability like nothing else does to turn our tears to songs of joy, and our weeping to carrying seed to sow.

What it means to me

I guess it’s the same for us really…how often do we find ourselves in a tough situation physically, emotionally, financially, and oftentimes our only response is to sit down and cry it out? But when The Lord somehow intervenes and makes our circumstances better, our tears of sorrow and lament are flipped 180 degrees…we begin to sing songs of joy! When we could feel nothing but despair, we are elated and feel like a 10-ton weight has been supernaturally removed from our chest. So, if you find yourself at a low point, don’t despair…God is still in the healing business, and He can turn your tears to songs of joy – Beverly, can I have an Amen? 😊

Love you guys, see you on Sunday!

In Christ,

Brian