“O LORD, my heart is not lifted up, my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me. But I have calmed and quieted my soul… O Israel, hope in the LORD from this time on and forevermore.” (Psalm 131:1-2, NRSV) 

These words from the ancient psalm writer still ring true today. There is so much going on in our world, nation, and community; a pandemic, financial recession, racial justice movement, election cycle, and more all in this one year of 2020. Our days and nights can become filled with anxious thoughts about the uncertainties that lie ahead. 

Psalm 131 breathes the fresh air of wisdom into our anxious moments. “I do not occupy myself with things to great and too marvelous for me.” In other words, don’t get carried away with worry over things you can’t control anyway. “But I have calmed and quieted my soul…” How? By hoping in and waiting on the Lord. 

Jesus said the same thing in just a little different way. “Don’t worry about your life… Who among you by worrying can add a single moment to your life… Instead, seek first and foremost God’s kingdom and God’s righteousness…” (Matthew 6:25, 27, 33, CEB)  

So, I invite you to join me in following the biblical wisdom of the ancient psalmist and the call of Jesus on our lives.  Calm and quiet all that you are, your soul. And breathe in deeply the hope that only comes in trusting God, especially when things seem out of control.