First, in faithfulness you have afflicted me (65-80). The Psalmist could pray for God to do good to him. This did not mean he had a carefree life. On the contrary, he was afflicted in many ways. He was slandered by unfeeling people, but there he could learn God's decrees. He had gone astray, but in his affliction he learned God's love and faithfulness. He learned the loving compassion of the Lord, who bears our sins and weaknesses, but is ever faithful to give us his word. He never takes his love from us. God is good. In our afflictions we are reminded that these are God given to bring us back to him and to learn his word. Second, 'When will you comfort me?' (81-88). We are weak and sinful, cut off from God. We never see him with our eyes. At the same time we meet the persecution and arrogance of a sinful world. What is our comfort? This is the situation where the Psalmist put his hope in the Lord, remembered his word and obeyed it. Many times we seek comfort through the resolution of our afflictions. But true comfort is holding on to the word of God and receiving affliction as his best love for us.
Application: Lord, in my affliction help me to see your face. Comfort me with your word and love.
One Word: So that I might learn your decrees