Known unto God

Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies? – Psalm 77:9

While visiting a World War I military cemetery in France, I was struck by the number of grave markers bearing only these words:

A SOLDIER OF THE GREAT WAR: KNOWN UNTO GOD

The cemetery was surrounded on three sides by stone panels bearing the names of 20,000 soldiers who fell in nearby battles. Imagining the loneliness of men dying in war and the anguish of families grieving at home was overpowering.

There may be times in life when we feel forgotten and alone. Like the psalmist we cry out: "Will the Lord cast off forever? And will He be favorable no more? . . . Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has He in anger shut up His tender mercies?" (Psalm 77:7,9).

The psalmist’s answer to feeling abandoned came in remembering all that God had done in the past, meditating on His wonderful work, and speaking of it to others (vv. 11-12).

In our darkest moments, we can remember the words of Jesus: "Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows" (Luke 12:6-7).

We are never forgotten by God. – David McCasland

When trials loom or death is near;

In Christ we can confide;

We never need to feel alone –

He’s always at our side. – Sper

READ: Psalm 77:1-15

In every desert of trial, God has an oasis of comfort.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Chronicles 10-12

• John 11:30-57