Psalm 78:17-24
Cyrus was discouraged.
For the last year and for a meager salary, Cyrus S. Nusbaum (1861-1937) had faithfully served a circuit of seven Methodist churches in Kansas. At the annual conference, he was hoping for a better appointment, but it was not to be.
After the session in which the bishop announced that Cyrus was to continue in the same assignment, he and his wife returned to their quarters. His wife went to bed, but Cyrus could not sleep. Deeply unhappy, he sat in the parlor grappling with bitterness. About midnight, he slipped to his knees and surrendered his ministry and future to God. Out of this experience, Cyrus penned the words and music to the hymn, “His Way with Thee.” It became his theme for a productive life of service.
In Psalm 78, the people could have turned to God for guidance, but they rebelled, invoking God’s wrath. Even so, the “Most High” sent them manna and continued to care for them throughout their wilderness journey.
Author: Karen Hiner
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