Rewarded Living

The godly will rejoice when they see injustice avenged … Then at last everyone will say, “There truly is a reward for those who live for God; surely there is a God who judges justly here on earth.”—Psalm 58:10–11 NLT

Dmitri Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 7, “Leningrad,” was performed for the first time in August 1942 during World War II. More than just a piece of music, this symphony symbolized hope for all who fought against Nazi Germany, not just in Russia but also in the United States, where it was performed to enormous acclaim. Shostakovich himself was featured on the cover of Time Magazine.

Shostakovich wrote this symphony while the invading Nazi army besieged his native Leningrad. While serving as a fireman for the civil defense, he dedicated much of his free time to writing this symphony. It became music that influenced the outcome of the war, encouraging beleaguered people everywhere.

Shostakovich later told of another, surprising inspiration for this music: “I began writing it having been deeply moved by the Psalms of David.” When he read the Psalms, Shostakovich took comfort in the fact that God “doesn’t forget the cries of victims.” He even requested that the Psalms be read before every performance of this symphony.

You may feel that ungodly people have an advantage and that defeat is inevitable. But God knows what you are going through. Continue to do His will, trust Him, and live for Him. He is Judge and sovereign over the whole earth! You can be confident that He will protect you and bring you victory. Trust Him today!

Reflection Question: Which Psalms bring you the most comfort for deliverance?