Slices
Prepare
Have you had a difficult or a joyful week? Whichever, take time to meditate now on the words of this psalm.
Bible passage
A song of ascents.
1 When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion,
we were like those who dreamed.
2 Our mouths were filled with laughter,
our tongues with songs of joy.
Then it was said among the nations,
‘The Lord has done great things for them.’
3 The Lord has done great things for us,
and we are filled with joy.
4 Restore our fortunes, Lord,
like streams in the Negev.
5 Those who sow with tears
will reap with songs of joy.
6 Those who go out weeping,
carrying seed to sow,
will return with songs of joy,
carrying sheaves with them.
Explore
The Lord has done wonderful things for his people (v 3)! After exile and captivity in a foreign land, God brings them back to their homeland (probably around 358 bc). Now, they sing psalms of praise as they go up to worship in Jerusalem (v 2), recalling all God has done for them. So great is their praise, surrounding peoples can’t help but notice and recognise the greatness of the Israelites’ God. Our worship can be a witness in itself to non-believers.
Their joy bursts out; their homecoming is like a dream (vs 2,3). But then they see the reality (vs 4–6). In their absence, the land has become desolate. Yet, trusting in their faithful God, they pray for bountiful times to return – and get to work (v 4).
Despite optimism and faith, there will be no quick fixes. In reality, there will be years of hard work and tears before they see the fruit of their labours (v 6). For us too, despite the hardship and grief our troubled world brings, we can be sure: God is faithful and will bring his strength to us as we work at the tasks he has given in the here and now. Despite our tears, he will ‘restore our fortunes’ in unexpected ways (v 4).
Respond
Bring your joys and troubles to God as you say this psalm aloud. Let his voice encourage you to praise and to work.
Bible in a year
Read the Bible in a year: Leviticus 10–12; Psalm 20
Pray for Scripture Union
Pray for teams engaging in mission with young people in countries where Christian work is restricted in some way as they offer vital engagement with the Bible and the way God’s Big Story can have an impact on young people’s lives.
