stephen R Harrison

Have you ever faced criticism? Have you ever been mocked? It’s bad enough when those happen in the everyday things of life, but when you encounter them as you serve and worship the Lord it can be extremely more difficult and discouraging. In Psalm 123, the psalmist expressed Israel’s constant persecution, contempt, and ridicule. Remember, this song was sung on the way to worship in Jerusalem at the three yearly festivals. As the Israelites traveled, they took their sorrows and suffering to the Lord who, “sits enthroned in heaven” (v. 1). They brought their troubles to the Lord in worship before they got to the formal ceremonial worship times. How often do we wait until Sunday morning to present our troubles to the Lord and ask for His mercy! They looked to the hand of the Lord for mercy, provision, and protection (v. 2). It was almost a retreat for refreshment and encouragement as they got away from their oppressors if not for a few days during the worship festivals. Israel faced many enemies, and sometimes were their own worst enemy. In this psalm, the leader began by placing his eyes back on the Lord (v. 1) and asking Him for mercy for all they are experiencing from their enemies (vv. 3-4).

The world will often not understand why Christians go to church. Those who don’t follow Jesus will often say, “Religion is a crutch for the weak” and “prayer is useless”. They believe Christianity is foolishness, but that shouldn’t surprise us. 1 Corinthians 1:18 says, “The message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.” When people hurl hate speech and mockery at Christians, Jesus reminds us, “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18). We must not worry, while people may mock Christians, God cannot be mocked (Galatians 6:7). When people mock, show contempt, or ridicule Christians, we must remember 1 Peter 3:14-17, “Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. Do not fear their threats. Do not be frightened. But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. For it is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.”

At some point in your walk with the Lord, someone will question why you are praying for that issue you are going through. You might even come across someone who can’t understand why you continue to praise the Lord while enduring pain, grief, heartache, or various trials. Some will flat out mock any of your efforts as they have written God off. Don’t be discouraged. Stop looking at them and look up once again to the Lord. He’s the one on the throne! Don’t elevate their criticism or ridicule to that level. The hand of the Master will provide and protect. He will give you the mercy needed to endure. Remember God can’t be mocked. Don’t grow weary while doing good as you will reap a harvest if you do not give up (Galatians 6:7-9).

Questions:

1. Has the mocking from someone caused you go abandon the promises of God?
2. Have you allowed hurtful words of others to consume you and take God’s place on His throne?
3. Have you called out for God’s mercy or are you trying to handle it on your own?

Prayer:
Lord, thank You for reminding me that You are always on Your throne of mercy. I’m sorry for all the times I’ve listened to the voice of others and the evil one more than Your Words of life. I lift my eyes and look to You the King of Kings. Thank you for your mercy that meets me when I boldly ask for it in my time of need. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.