Never-changing
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are the One on whom I depend for my peace and security. I praise You.
Read Psalm 142:1-7
[1] A maskil of David. When he was in the cave. A prayer. I cry aloud to the LORD; I lift up my voice to the LORD for mercy. [2] I pour out my complaint before him; before him I tell my trouble. [3] When my spirit grows faint within me, it is you who know my way. In the path where I walk men have hidden a snare for me. [4] Look to my right and see; no one is concerned for me. I have no refuge; no one cares for my life. [5] I cry to you, O LORD; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” [6] Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. [7] Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me. Scripture taken from the Holy Bible, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 International Bible Society. All rights reserved throughout the world. Used by permission of International Bible Society.
Reflect
How does David describe the Lord in his prayer?Today’s psalm is attributed to David when he fled to the cave of Adullam (see 1 Sam. 22, which follows on from the passages just read). David was in a really hard place. He was on the run for his life and had left behind him his closest friend. Imagine how he would have felt!
As with so many psalms, David is totally honest with God about his feelings: “I pour out my complaint before him; before him I tell my trouble” (2). Even in the depths of his despair, however, he acknowledges God’s presence, his good character, and his ability to help. He prays in faith and trusts that help will come in response. His is an example for us in our distress, too. God is our “place of safety” (5), he cares for us and knows our way. This psalm speaks out loud truths about God’s character and his ability and desire to help you in your time of need.
Apply
Bring all your troubles to God. Use the words of this psalm to help you to pray honestly and with faith and trust.
Closing prayer
Lord, thank You that I can be honest with You at all times. Help me to trust Your care for me.
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