God, Our Rock
Opening Prayer
Lord God, in Your infinite wisdom You placed us in families. Grant our mothers courage, love, patience and faith.
Read Psalm 61
[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.
Meditate
When life goes from strength to weakness and uncertainty, we need to call to our mighty and loving God, who says, “Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you” (Heb. 13:5b).
Think Further
Prayer leads us to the Rock, our Mighty God and strong Deliverer. Prayer enables us to confess our faith in the hardest places, in the deepest turmoil of soul. Michael Wilcock argues for Psalm 61 being a psalm of David, written when he was forced into exile because his son Absalom plotted to overthrow him as king (2 Sam. 13–15). David had been chased from his power base and stronghold in Jerusalem. He is in deep distress and uncertain for the future.
Despite this, David turns with faith and heartfelt supplication to God. A life of faith has taught him several things about the Lord. God is the Rock (2), higher and greater than us. God is the strong tower (3) in whom we find refuge; God is greater than any enemy. There is safety in the shelter of God’s wings (4); like a strong eagle, God protects his children when we hide in him. David has experienced this time and time again and knows that the God who has always rescued him in the past will continue to do so (Psa. 57). David knows that God chose him and anointed him and that God’s power and purposes are beyond human will to oppose. So when he asks God to bless his rule and kingdom (5–7), he is reminding God of the promises he made about David’s everlasting line (Psa. 89:3,4). He does so knowing that God is faithful and will fulfill his purposes for those who love him. Although he now faces hardship, David reaffirms his love for God and his vows to serve him (8), praying and longing for the time when he can worship the Lord in his sanctuary in Jerusalem. He trusts God alone to restore him, because he knows God is faithful.
Apply
Which image of God (rock, refuge, strong tower, tent, wings) means the most to you and why?
Closing prayer
Mighty God, when I am aware of my weakness, I am reminded of so much about You that is strength. And what a joy it is to know that You will never leave me!
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