Looking Up!

“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Heb 12:2

In times of lamentation, when life feels low and overwhelming, Christians can find comfort by looking to Christ. Even David, a man after God’s own heart, had moments when he felt deeply troubled and abandoned:

“Lord, why are there so many people troubling me?” Psalm 3:1

“Why have you abandoned me?” Psalm 22:1

“Will the Lord reject me forever? Will he never show me favour again? Has his mercy disappeared forever? Have his promises failed? Has God forgotten to be kind? Has he shut up his compassion in anger?” (Psalm 77:7-9)

David’s questions and laments often came when he was focused too much on himself (see Psalm 77:1-6). Our natural human frailty (verse 10) tends to lead us into this mindset. When he looked within, he saw fear, inadequacy, and the seeming failure of God’s promises. But David realised the solution was to look beyond himself—to turn his gaze to God (verses 10-20).

In Psalm 73, the Psalmist describes a similar struggle. This time, his troubles came from looking at the world around him rather than within. What he saw led to feelings of envy, frustration, and confusion about the justice of God. Again, the answer to this “foolishness” (verse 22) was the same: looking up to God instead of being caught up with the world (verses 17 and 23-28).

The message from these Psalms (Psalm 77 and Psalm 73) is clear: Looking within during challenges may confronts us with our limitations, doubts, and fears, leading to discouragement. Looking around in a moment of uncertainty can distract us with comparisons, envy, and seemingly overwhelming injustice. But looking up to God brings true peace and joy. When we turn our gaze to God, allowing His perspective to lift our spirits, our sorrow and lamentation are transformed into joy and praise.

Kay Alli