Read Psalm 107:17-22 17Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction; 18they loathed any kind of food, and they drew near to the gates of death. 19Then they cried to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their distress. 20He sent out his word and healed them, and delivered them from their destruction. 21Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man! 22And let them offer sacrifices of thanksgiving, and tell of his deeds in songs of joy!
There is righteous suffering that comes because we are doing what is right (Jeremiah, Jesus, Paul).
There is suffering that comes as a result of simply living in a fallen world (Job, Ruth).
Then there is suffering that comes as the result of our own sin. Self-inflicted pain and sorrow. That’s the category the psalmist is reflecting on in this stanza – Some were fools through their sinful ways, and because of their iniquities suffered affliction.
The word fool is a strong word in wisdom literature. The fool is not simply the ignorant but also the rebellious. The fool refuses to submit to God’s ways and fear the Lord. The fool is self-deceived because they are self-absorbed. As a result, they are quite possibly literally sick and dying, facing destruction.
The good news is that God’s deliverance is always just a humble cry away. God never refuses to deliver us. God never withholds his grace and mercy. Not from those who turn to him in godly sorrow and true repentance. And in those moments, God not only forgives but also begins the healing process. How? Through his sent Word. Jesus. He is the healing power that indwells the soul of all who have come back to him to find his rest.
Healing may be long and difficult, but to live is Christ means that the journey is not only possible, it has already been accomplished by Christ our Savior. Even if we don’t find complete healing from our sin’s consequences on this side of the grave, we will definitely find it on the other side.
You: In what way might you be suffering because of your own sin?
You in Christ: How does knowing that Christ’s healing power is inside of you allow you to begin the process of healing today?
Christ in you: Where can you live out verses 21 and 22 this week?
Pray: Father, what is my response to your deliverance from my sin? Let me be forever thankful for your deliverance. Let me forever sings songs of joy for your mighty deeds in my life. Amen.
To Live is Christ 