Psalm 143

Trusting God's Righteousness: Reflections on Psalm 143

Enveloped in Righteousness

As we journey through the Psalms, we’re struck again by how Psalm 143 opens and closes with one central theme: righteousness. It’s not just a passing mention—it frames the entire Psalm like bookends. The psalmist begins by pleading, “In your faithfulness and righteousness, come to my relief,” and ends with, “In your righteousness, bring me out of trouble.”

This repetition isn’t accidental. It reminds us that we stand not on our own merits, but solely on the righteousness of Christ. Often we fall into the trap of comparison—“Well, at least I’m not as bad as that person.” But Psalm 143:2 levels the playing field: “No one living is righteous before you.”

We need Jesus. His righteousness, not ours, is what makes us right with God. It’s humbling, but it's also freeing. We don’t carry the weight of earning our way into God's favor—Christ already has.

Remembering God's Faithfulness

Another powerful moment comes in verse 5: “I remember the days of long ago; I meditate on all your works.” Over and over in the Psalms, we see this call to remember. Not just to think, but to meditate—to sit with, reflect on, and chew on what God has done.

When life feels chaotic, when hope feels thin, we’re invited to pause and recall God’s faithfulness—how He’s shown up, provided, healed, comforted, and led. Sometimes we even place ourselves back in those moments, not to dwell on past fears, but to re-experience God’s rescue with fresh gratitude.

Meditating on God’s works roots us. It gives us courage for today and hope for tomorrow.

Life Without God Isn’t Life at All

Psalm 143:7 is a sobering line: “Answer me quickly, Lord; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me, or I will be like those who go down to the pit.” In other words, “God, if you’re not in this, I don’t want it.”

We’ve all had dreams or plans that we hoped God would bless. But this Psalm reminds us to reverse that thinking. Rather than asking God to jump on board with our vision, we’re called to seek His direction and presence first. Life apart from God—even if it looks successful by the world’s standards—is empty. It’s hellish, even now.

Hell isn’t just a future destination. It’s also a present reality wherever God’s presence is absent. That’s why we cry out, “Don’t hide your face from me.” We’re not just asking for help—we're asking for Him.

A Prayer of Surrender

As the Psalm wraps up, the tone shifts toward surrender: “Teach me to do your will… Lead me… Deliver me… Preserve my life.”

This is the heart posture we’re invited to adopt—open hands and humble hearts. It’s not a resignation, but a confident trust in a faithful God. When we look back on His track record, in Scripture and in our own lives, we find the strength to say: “God, I trust You. Lead the way.”

So let’s pray this Psalm with hearts ready to follow: Lord, not our will, but Yours. Not our plan, but Your path. Teach us, lead us, show us where You’re moving—and let us join You there.

Take a Moment:
Read Psalm 143 for yourself. What do you learn about God? What do you learn about yourself? What is the Holy Spirit highlighting for you today?

We’d love to hear what stood out to you. Feel free to share and encourage someone else along the way.

God bless you—we’ll catch up again soon.