Lead Me, Lord
Opening Prayer
Generous, loving Father, I have so very much to be thankful for and I give You my sincere thanks now.
Read Psalm 61:1-8
[1] For the director of music. With stringed instruments. Of David. Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. [2] From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. [3] For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. [4] I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. [5] For you, God, have heard my vows; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name. [6] Increase the days of the king’s life, his years for many generations. [7] May he be enthroned in God’s presence forever; appoint your love and faithfulness to protect him. [8] Then I will ever sing in praise of your name and fulfill my vows day after day. Scripture taken from the THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION, NIV Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Reflect
Where would the psalmist find his "refuge"?The psalmist needs to be heard. He knows that God has heard him in the past (5); and he longs to be heard now (1). He acknowledges who God is—the higher rock, refuge and strong tower (2,3), and expresses his longing to dwell with God forever (4). Having recognized all that God has done for him (5), he makes his request (6,7). As those seeking to follow Jesus, there is much we can learn from this psalm: * We can listen. There is something incredible about being listened to by the living God. When you pray, do you expect to hear and be heard? * We can worship. We are not the center of our universe! Worship begins as we acknowledge who God is. * We can celebrate. Recognizing all that God has done for us helps us stay thankful and puts the pressures of each day in the context of all that God has done and is doing. * We can ask. David does not hold back from asking God for things, but it isn’t the first thing he does. It’s interesting to see how our asking changes in the light of more thankful hearts!
Apply
How can this psalm help you the next time you cry to God and need to know you are heard?
Closing prayer
Use the outline of listen / worship / celebrate / ask to help guide your time of prayer now.
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