This morning (Wednesday) my bible chronological reading took me to Psalm 137. It ties in with the readings from Ezra’s book, a revered scribe who recorded Jewish religious history. Interesting for me personally, is how the theme of this psalm further defines what I wrote about last week, living an abundant life complete with “ups and downs”. In the first verse we read “By the rivers of Babylon, we sat and wept as we thought of Jerusalem.” 

Biblehub.com gives a brief explanation for the historical context of this psalm: Depicts the heartbreak and longing of those taken captive by the Babylonians. This psalm begins with the well-known line, “By the rivers of Babylon we sat and wept when we remembered Zion”.  It reflects a specific historical moment when many inhabitants of Judah were exiled following the Babylonian conquest of Jerusalem, traditionally dated to 586 BC. 

This psalm’s lament underscores two central realities: the forced relocation of the people from their land into Babylon and the profound sense of loss they experienced. Understanding that the psalm relates to the Babylonian exile provides the background for the historical and archaeological data supporting its setting and events.

As I read through the psalm I could not help but think again about living an abundant life that is one under forced captivity. The Israelites taken by the Babylonians described that they had put away their harps, hanging them on tree branches. Life had become unbearable to the point of giving up music and songs. Whether from mockery or need for pleasure, their captors “demanded” a song from the prisoners, “insisting” on a joyful hymn. Not exactly what I’d call a sweet serene moment.

In the New Testament, it’s recorded in Acts 16 of Paul and Silas being imprisoned for casting a demon out of a young girl. Shackled in chains they sang and prayed. In fact, their “worship” was so loud the other prisoners could hear, an earthquake occurred which opened the cell doors. Their jailkeeper–eye witness to the events–became a believer in Jesus! That’s a powerful conversion experience and proof that God’s plans cannot be contained or stopped.

Isn’t that the kind of a God filled life each one of us desires? That no matter what comes our way we can live under powerful assurance that “God has us!”

This is why I love the Psalms. This book is where I find not only assurance, but deep abiding examples of how to continue trusting God for outcomes in circumstances beyond my control. God’s people were no strangers to adversity, imprisonment, loss of hope. Paul’s life spanned many attempts to silence the message of the gospel. Often, he escaped death. Several times he was put in jail. Yet, he persevered. 

Questions we can ask ourselves when life is painful. Is God still enough? Do I trust that His ways and thoughts are better than our own? If I’m captive in negative thinking, do I have a desire to still worship the One Who can help me be “set free”? Can I be an example of resiliency so others see the power of Christ in me?

A jailkeeper, for many years, was very far from God. He probably worshiped idols. Because of Paul and Silas’ faithful witness of God’s love, their ability to worship, this man was redeemed and included in God’s kingdom. I think Paul and Silas would tell us–if they could–their suffering was worth the redemption of that man’s soul. That heavenly price far outweighs any earthly burden’s weight.

Yes, even when life is hard, God is still good. He remains worthy of song and praise.