A Wise Use of Conjunctions

But You, O LORD. Psalm 102:12a (New American Standard Bible)

This phrase follows 11 verses of one man pouring out his heart to God. Time and time again, David has shown me the necessity of open, honest dialogue with God. He does not sugar-coat his circumstances, hide his true feelings, or disguise his thoughts. His is a flood of emotions, pain, agony, and torment that freely flows from his mouth to God’s ears. He readily tells God about his fears, discomfort, anger, and loneliness. He describes the toll it is taking on him physically, emotionally, and spiritually. The tears fall as his words flow and the whole time God is listening. Not surprised. Not shocked. Not disappointed. Not disinterested. Not disturbed. Intently and compassionately listening to not only David’s complaint but also for his conjunction….But You, O LORD! His prayer is not limited to just listing his difficulties of life. It includes and concludes with proclaiming the truth about God.

Our prayer lives are progressive. Many of us had to learn how to become honest before God. We had to see it was okay to share with Him those things that He was already aware of. Getting out in the light what had been buried in the dark was a huge step for some of us. It required honesty in the inward parts and trust in the heart of God. It came after distortions about God were corrected. It may have taken weeks or even years for God to finally coax us into candid conversation with Himself. But His intent is not that we simply pour out our tears and tragedies. If that were the case, we would leave His throne room in no better shape than we entered.

When we have opened our hearts and mouths in honesty before God it is then time to turn the focus off ourselves and our circumstances and unto Him. This particular psalm lists God’s faithfulness, consistency, and power. Our list may do the same or go even further. There are times I like to just go through the alphabet ascribing a truth about God for each letter. Oh the strength, comfort, and refreshment that come as I proclaim, “But You, O Lord, are amazing, believable, compassionate, dependable, everlasting, faithful, generous, etc…” It allows me to see that my personal problems are NOT the end of the story! It puts things into right perspective once again. The hands that were hanging down are lifted and the knees that were feeble are strengthened (Hebrews 12:2). While nothing may have instantly changed with the outward circumstances my spirit is renewed and rejuvenated! God bless the conjunctions that turn my gaze and my praise toward Him!

Father, You are indescribable! May every conversation with You conclude with a testimony of You! Amen.