Main Idea: The past deeds of the Lord remind us to trust Him as we patiently await the return of Christ.

Look Back and Rejoice In the Mighty Works of the Lord

• 1, 2a When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream.  Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongue with shouts of joy;
  • Genesis 21:5–7
• 2b then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.”
  • Genesis 22:17, 18
  • Joel 2:17, 28, 29
  • Acts 2:7–11
• 3 The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.
  • Ephesians 2:12, 13

Look Ahead With Confidence In the Lord’s Faithfulness

• 4 Restore our fortunes, O Lord, like streams in the Negeb!
  • Joel 1:20
• 5-6 Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy!  He who goes out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.
  • Luke 6:21b
  • Mark 4:26–29
  • Romans 8:22–25

So What?

• The salvation that we have in Christ gives us the strength we need to persevere as we await the final restoration of all things.
  • 1 Peter 1:3–9