Read Psalm 102

“For [the LORD] looked down from the height of His sanctuary; From heaven the LORD viewed the earth, To hear the groaning of the prisoner, To release those appointed to death, To declare the name of the LORD in Zion, And His praise in Jerusalem…” (Psalm 102:19–21)

This Psalm is a raw expression of human suffering and a plea for God’s intervention in the midst of destruction and desperation. The author is unknown, but what is certain is his hope in the God of Israel. As the author gazes upon ruins, likely the city of Jerusalem, it causes him to recognize his frailty and God’s eternality.

(At the time of writing this, the nation of Israel has faced an unprecedented attack of terrorism, unlike anything before since the Holocaust. The LORD’s intervention for His people Israel is certainly on all our minds as there are many Jews who are currently observing life with the same eye as the psalmist. May God touch His people and show forth His glory through Israel in this time of unthinkable hardship.)

Whether we observe unimaginable tragedy from a distance or face our own grievous afflictions within, this Psalm is a deep well from which we may draw out several applicable truths of comfort.

First, we are reminded that God sees the day of trouble with a compassionate eye. Take note of the psalmist’s frequent expressions of God. The LORD “looked down;” He “viewed the earth;” He “hears the groaning” and “regards the prayer of the destitute.” There is no trouble or affliction that the LORD is inattentive to.

“The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears, And delivers them out of all their troubles. The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart, And saves such as have a contrite spirit.” (Psalm 34:17–18)

Second, while we desire a speedy and attentive answer from God during suffering (see Psalm 102:2), God’s intervention considers the glorious ending above temporary relief. The Almighty, in His infinite wisdom and mercy, does not reduce our sufferings into pointless experiences, but uses them for an eternal purpose. All conflicts are precisely orchestrated towards an exalted end in order to bring the human soul to salvation.

“The LORD looks down from heaven upon the children of men, To see if there are any who understand, who seek God.” (Psalm 14:2)

Last of all, we learn that the LORD will always fight for His people Israel and win, for “the nations shall fear the name of the LORD, And all the kings of the earth Your glory. For the LORD shall build up Zion; He shall appear in His glory.” God has chosen Zion — that great city of Jerusalem — for Himself. It is His! And it is appointed to be the place where He will show forth His glory.

“For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place: “This is My resting place forever; Here I will dwell, for I have desired it.” (Psalm 132:13–14)

Dear Beloved, God will not be mocked. He is amidst the ruins. He is near all those who are brokenhearted. He will not allow suffering to go on. He will vanquish the enemy. He will be glorified above the heavens.

“Who is like You, O LORD, among the gods? Who is like You, glorious in holiness, Fearful in praises, doing wonders? You stretched out Your right hand; The earth swallowed them. You in Your mercy have led forth The people whom You have redeemed; You have guided them in Your strength To Your holy habitation.” (Exodus 15:11–13)