Prayer Changes the Heart
Opening Prayer
Think of three things that you can thank God for. Thank him that he is the source of everything good.
Read Psalm 28:1-9
[1]Of David. To you, LORD, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit. [2] Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place. [3] Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil, who speak cordially with their neighbors but harbor malice in their hearts. [4] Repay them for their deeds and for their evil work; repay them for what their hands have done and bring back on them what they deserve. [5] Because they have no regard for the deeds of the LORD and what his hands have done, he will tear them down and never build them up again. [6] Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy. [7] The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him. [8] The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one. [9] Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever. 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 is God described in this psalm?It can be difficult to live and work with someone who is charming to your face, but is all the while stirring up trouble for you. In Psalm 28, it seems that David is in just such a position and, as king, he is right to be concerned. Three thousand years ago a king who had insincere, scheming adversaries around him could find himself dead overnight. In the course of this prayer, David moves from fear of death (1) to leaping and singing for joy (7). There’s a lesson in this for us all: prayer can change hearts as much as anything else; but how does this prayer bring such transformation? Here are a few thoughts on what makes this a powerful prayer. First, David acknowledges he is not perfect; he needs mercy (2,6) and knows he might be counted among the wicked (3). Second, David trusts God to deal with his enemies; the word “repay” (4) suggests settling accounts. When we try and deal out justice, we frequently make a mess of it. Finally, David acknowledges God; Rock, Shield, Fortress of Salvation, Source of life itself. He trusts God to protect him and help him prosper.
Apply
What do you need in order to trust God today? Tell God about it and thank him that you can trust him.
Closing prayer
Lord, You know I’m not perfect, but I’m thankful that I can pray about anything and know You hear me.
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