Psalm 102:18

 

“Let this be written for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.”

God’s Word continues through the ages and never stops speaking. We are able to research men and women who lived centuries ago, who wrote about God and their experiences.

Psalm 102:18 was written during a time of affliction. The psalmist cries to God for help, begging him to listen and answer. The author pours out his heart, expressing the deep sorrow and despair that have consumed him. The psalmist and all of God’s people were dealing with the consequences of idolatry.

In the midst of his despair, he expresses his confidence in the reign of God, the hope in the covenant faithfulness, and trust in the future victory of God. Therefore, the psalmist continues to pray, knowing that the Lord would pay attention to the prayer of the destitute.

Biblehub.com, Matthew Poole’s Commentary: “This wonderful deliverance shall not be lost nor forgotten but carefully recorded by Thy people.”

Biblehub.com, Barnes’ Notes on the Bible: “This shall be written for the generation to come - It shall be recorded for the instruction and encouragement of future ages. The fact that God has heard the prayer of His people in a time of trial shall be so recorded and remembered that it may be referred to in similar circumstances in all time to come, for He is an unchanging God. What He has done now, He will always be willing to do hereafter.”

We have the Bible to help us understand times of despair and hardship. We also have books written through the ages by people who went through heartache and despair and were brought through them by God’s help.

Godsbless.ing: “Here, we see the importance of recording God’s deeds for the generations to come. Just as Deuteronomy 6:6-7 instructs believers to pass down God’s commandments to their children, this act ensures the continuity of faith and the recognition of God’s works across time.”

Take advantage of the many books and articles written by God’s people that will help you continue in your walk with God. Stories that will strength you and help you through hardships during your life. Stories that will demand you praise God for what He has done in past times and what He continues to do now.

The Bible stands alone for its truth and should always be the first book you read. Other books serve to build on God’s Word as they build your confidence and settle any doubt within so “that a people not yet created may praise the Lord.”

By His Grace . . .