Have you turned on the news lately? We’re inundated with stories of floods, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions causing devastating destruction. We hear accounts of refugees fighting for survival, of children being separated from their parents at border crossings, and horrific school shootings. There’s such pain, injustice, and oppression in this world.

When we take it all in, it’s easy to lose hope, especially in our political leaders who say they work for the cause of liberty and justice, but their actions say otherwise. Our spirits can become despondent, our hearts apathetic. Will things ever get better?

In Psalm 146, the author urges us to shift our focus. He says, “Do not put your trust in princes, in human beings, who cannot save.” Instead, he prompts us to hope in the Lord. For God is the ultimate freedom fighter. He advocates for the oppressed, gives food to the hungry, sets prisoners free, gives sight to the blind, lifts up the depressed, and loves the righteous. He watches over foreigners, supports orphans and widows, and stands in the way of corrupt people. Now that’s Someone who’s worthy of our trust!

Though we may not understand why terrible things happen here on earth, we can put our hope in the One who promises to one day set everything right. For He “remains faithful forever” (Psalm 146:6). We know that His plan is for the complete restoration of the earth and all that’s in it — and He gives us glimpses of this restored world every day when we become His freedom fighters. So shift your focus from the news to the Good News, and then help spread it.

Dear Lord, help us to turn our eyes and hearts towards you, even when it seems like there’s no hope. Give us your vision, and help us to work towards justice while we wait for you to come again. Amen.

Go Deeper — Spend some time in prayer for your community, country, and world. Pray for your political leaders, that they would seek after God’s freedom-fighting heart. Ask Him to show you how to practically stand up for freedom for the oppressed, and for patience while you wait for Him to return.



Tags: Freedom Psalm 146
Photo Credit: Vladimir Vujeva