Ever heard of Heman? He’s one of the key writers of the Psalms. While many Psalms were written by the shepherd king David, eleven psalms were created by the sons of Korah.
Korah was actually a bad dude in the Old Testament. He and his buddies decided to rebel against Moses and God’s command not to steal. So God caused a giant earthquake which swallowed up Korah, his bad buddies, and everything they stole.
But the next generations of Korahites turned out to be good. The prophet Samuel was a descendant as well as several other custodians for the Tabernacle. One group of Korahites became warriors who fought with King David. Another group used their musical and creative gifts for worship. Heman was one of the singers and composers.
Psalm 88 is one of the major psalms that Heman composed. As a song of lament, it is often considered a Good Friday reading. Dark, sad, and despairing but cognizant that our help comes from God. Although Heman uses the metaphor of ‘darkness as his closest friend,’ he affirms his faith by writing, ‘O Lord, you are the God who saves me.’
My point in this short missive about Heman is to make the point that even unknown writers can make an impact far into the future. Some 2500 years ago, this guy named Heman wrote a poem / song about his personal experience. It was shared with others and became part of the biblical canon.
All these years later, Heman’s words echo for those who are depressed, grieving, struggling, and suffering. Yet he shares that there is hope in a life of faith, of believing in the God who saves.
So writers, keep writing. If Heman’s words can be printed, sold, and read all these years later — so can yours. In this new year, write. Then write some more. And keep writing. Because your words matter now and into the future.
©2025 RJ Thesman – All Rights Reserved
Image Attribution: Pexels / Pixabay
I’m writing, too. This novel is my latest publication: Seeking the Land of Grace.
Thank you.
Blessings into the new year and beyond.
And to you as well!