June 2 - Psalm 3 & 4

June 2 - Psalm 3 & 4

Psalm 4 is a lament. A lament is basically a compliant. In a lament the Psalmist expresses to God his displeasure with something in life. In verse one he complains that God is not answering or responding to his prayers. He is being honest with God. Remember, prayer is about relationship. How can we have relationship if we are not honest?

Laments are seen as model prayers for us. They teach us that it is appropriate to take our frustrations, disappointments, anger, or despair to God in prayer. What is crucial about laments, is the prayers don't stay in that disappointment. By the conclusion of every lament, the author is expressing confidence in God. In Psalm 4, it begins with asking why God does not answer him but concludes with knowing God is with him.

When life is difficult, the Psalms give us an example of how to pray. They teach us to freely express ourselves to God, as if we could actually hide anything from God, in a manner that opens us to the healing power of God.