PSALM 143
Psalm 143 is one extended prayer that is divided by the Selah at the end of verse 6. In the first half, David pleads for God to hear his prayer, while in the second half, David pleads for God's mercy in several areas.
This morning, verses eight and ten stood out and ministered to my spirit. I am always drawn to things that improve my understanding of what God desires to impart to my life. God making me aware of His lovingkindness (vs. 8) and teaching me (vs. 10) are two subjects that I am drawn to with great interest.
Verse 8, "Cause me to hear thy lovingkindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust..." As David was crying out to God, he desired that the morning would greet him with God's lovingkindness. The basis for his request is important to recognize. His request is based upon his trust in God. How much trust do you place in the Lord? David lived before Jesus spoke the words of Matthew 21:22, but he understood the principle, "And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive." All that we ask the Lord in prayer, must be asked in faith. This is when the Lord is inclined to act.
Verse 8(b), "Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee." David is praying for God's guidance in his life. If you are going to live your life, it is best to live doing what God wants you to do. I'm thankful to have a definite knowledge that I am walking according to God's desire for me.
In verse 10, David presents two requests, "Teach me to do thy will..." David, as was often the case, asked the Lord to teach him obedience to His will. Knowing and obeying God's will are very basic Biblical concepts, and yet so profoundly important. Choices make or break our lives, and this is exponentially true for any person who claims Jesus as Savior. David reminds us, "...thou art my God: thy spirit is good..." God is our creator, our Savior, and beyond good! David's second request is in the words, "...lead me into the land of uprightness." Using an eloquent metaphor, David asks God to lead him to do right. I hope your desire is to do right. Dr. Bob Jones Sr. said, "Always do right. Do right until the stars fall!"
May you spend time throughout your day meditating upon the great truths of God's Word. May you hear His lovingkindness, walk in His way, and do right always.
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. How do you begin your day? What can you do daily to help you hear God’s voice concerning His lovingkindness?
2. How does faith or trust influence your ability to hear God speaking kindness to you?
3. Whose guidance do you seek most? Why is it important to receive and respond to God’s guidance in your life?
4. What does your heart look like in relation to God? Do you listen to His teaching? Do you desire His leadership? How would you describe God’s Holy Spirit?