Psalms of Depression

(Psa 74:21 KJV)  O let not the oppressed return ashamed: let the poor and needy praise thy name.

(Proverbs 14 also read)

This is one depressing Psalm.  I did not check any commentaries but from the language of destruction it seems like this is set after the southern kingdom was deported and Jerusalem destroyed.  Not a happy time and that is reflected in the text.  I would say it is obvious that the writer is devout and faithful yet he is still immersed in the destruction.  That should say something to us today as we are concerned about the way things are going in our country.

Then you come to this verse and the back handed hope that is involved.  It would seem that we can be “oppressed” (1790) and “poor" (afflicted NASB) (6041)and “needy” (34) and still be expected to “praise” (1984b).  Not only is it expected but it is possible.  You might say it is necessary for our spiritual survival.  In my limited experience with persecution I find that spending time in praise gives you a totally different view of the situation.

So?  Get into the habit of praise and thanksgiving when things are not destructive.  It will establish a pattern and habits that can carry over into the times when things really get bad.