Reflection

Certain words produce a very real and tangible picture in your mind when you read them. David, the author of this Psalm, uses three words that should resonate with everyone – calm, quiet and content. There is no doubt that David would have lived a hectic life, and it appears that a hectic life and busyness are now the ‘norm.’ Has nothing changed over the years? Yet there is something in David that longs for calm, quiet and contentment. I must admit, a silent longing for those three words have become an increasing reality in my life. Is it really possible? It’s interesting that post-COVID, if this exists, people are seeking more contentment in their lives. Many people are changing jobs, locations to live, hobbies to participate in and pursuits that truly satisfy them.

This Psalm, like all the previous Psalms, was written to be sung either on the way to Jerusalem or when the pilgrims arrived. Was David sending a message to those pilgrims to take the time on their journey to rethink their lifestyles and examine if there is quietness, calmness and contentment present?

If he was – and I think he was doing precisely that – his advice is blunt and real. His definition of contentment is a complete and utter rejection of pride and haughtiness. More than that, David speaks to all of us when he says that he makes a choice not to ‘concern’ himself with ‘things that are too great or too awesome.’ In other words, he will not worry about things outside his control. Contentment is always a casualty when worry invades our hearts and mind.

Perhaps it is time for all of us to desire that peace and contentment come sweeping into our hearts and soul, so like David we can say, ‘I have calmed and quieted myself.’

Now that’s a picture to long for.

Prayer

Lord God, today, in the increasing and seemingly unending busyness of my life, help me to experience some calmness, quietness and contentment. Forgive me Lord when I have allowed pride and haughtiness to capture my desires. Let me be courageous enough to reject the temptation to worry about things I cannot control. Let my hope and trust be in you alone, Lord. I surrender my heart afresh to you again and cast the burden of worry upon you, oh God.