In a society currently often characterised by complaint and frustration, believers have every reason to express thankfulness to the God of our salvation.--Psalm 118 shows the foundation for such a thankful heart and thankful lips- we give thanks to the Lord, for he is good- for his mercy endures forever.

Here is the anatomy of the cry to God of a troubled and rebellious heart.--It gives us Jonah's description of his situation- -my soul fainted within me.- It gives Jonah's confession of his reaction- -I remembered the Lord.- It records Jonah's expression of his supplication- -my prayer went up to you, into your holy temple.---It shows us the only true remedy for a fainting soul.

Have we yet been humbled by the things that we face as individuals, families, and societies- It is God's method to empty us in order that he might fill us.--In Psalm 116-6, the psalmist offers a humble confession and a grateful testimony. The confession is that -I was brought low-- he came to the point where he could find no help in himself or any other creature. The testimony is that -he saved me-- God helped him when he could not help himself.

Paul speaks of the resurrection hope of the whole cosmos, the creation groaning alongside God's people for the coming glory.--He speaks of what has happened in the past, what is happening in the present, and what will happen in the future.

What is the answer to our fear- For ourselves, our souls, and Christ's church- The Lord speaks to his people, surrounded by enemies, and gives them all they need.--He issues a clear command- do not fear, nor be dismayed.--He asserts a particular relation- he is with them as their God.--He develops an enriched promise- he will strengthen, help and uphold his people.--He identifies an engaged strength- the right hand of his righteousness, divine might in accordance with covenant faithfulness.--This is the confidence and comfort of his people, and the terror of the ungodly.