Beyond Understanding: Knowing the Heavenly Father

As I watched the service online today (Yes! I didn’t make it today I was under the weather), Pastor Seibeling was in the series “Wisdom Builds the House.” He discussed Psalm 34:4, emphasizing the importance of seeking the Heavenly Father through fasting and prayer. As we prepared to begin our 21-day fast as a church, I decided to search “I sought the Lord” on my Bible app to see what it would bring up. To my surprise, Psalm 77:2 appeared, and I was instantly captivated when I first read the scripture. 

Psalm 77:2 (NIV) When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted.

My initial reaction upon reading this scripture was, “God won’t listen to me!” What are your initial thoughts when encountering such a passage? Are you shocked, scared, or frozen like I was? Context plays a crucial role in understanding scripture. It’s essential to read the passage in its entirety, considering the context of the chapter before and after it. Sometimes, even reading the chapter before or after can provide a deeper understanding and application of the scripture. As I delved further, it reminded me of a conversation I’ve been having with my wife and colleagues over the past few months. We must grasp the true nature of the Heavenly Father, rather than merely imagining what we want him to be. 

When we delve into the opening verses of Psalms 77, from 1 to 9, it can be quite overwhelming for those unfamiliar with the book. In this passage, we encounter David, the author of many Psalms, expressing a sense of doubt. While we know that David deeply loved and sought the heart of God, he was also known for his mischievous nature (a story for another time). As David continues, he emphasizes the importance of remembering God’s true nature rather than our own desires. He reminds us that during times of despair and doubt, we often forget who God truly is. I must admit that I myself struggle with this when faced with uncertainty. We tend to focus on what God means to us rather than who HE is. 

The Heavenly Father, the creator of all things, can be traced back to the very beginning:

Genesis 1:1 (NIV) In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

In verses 10 through 20 of Psalm 77, David reminds us of how the Heavenly Father has guided us through the most challenging times in our lives. We must remember that the Heavenly Father has been with us every step of the way, regardless of the challenges, trials, obstacles, or mountains we face. It’s important to remember who the Heavenly Father is and not what we want him to be. Remember, the Heavenly Father’s love is unwavering and constant, always eager to give us more of it.

In conclusion, I encourage you to reflect on a time when you thought you couldn’t or wouldn’t make it through. Did that challenge, trial, obstacle, or mountain break you? If you’re reading this right now, it didn’t. And if you look back, the Heavenly Father has brought you through every stage of whatever you were facing. 

Next Step:

Reflect on your most recent challenge and how you overcame it. Consider who the Heavenly Father was in that situation.

God bless you, God keep you. God loves you and I love you too!