Scripture Read: Psalms 3, 4

Key Verse: Psalm 3:7, 4:7

Arise, Lord!
 Deliver me, my God! 
Strike all my enemies on the jaw; break the teeth of the wicked;

Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound.

Observation:

I get distressed over the decisions and actions of others and if I allow it my entire day (days, months) will be affected.  So I’ve prayed similar prayers as David. “God, I tried. I’m out – they are yours. They need you right now, but they just are not listening. Smack them upside the head. Break their teeth if you have to. Whatever it takes to bring them around.” 

Application:

Frustration and sadness are what weigh down my heart when it seems that truth is not heard and seen and someone I care about is wandering away from God. A few years ago, when trying to shed light on a situation, things got twisted. In their pain and wanting to shift blame, I became the bad guy. In these situations, I need to be quiet and allow God refocus my heart and lift the weight.  I need to be angry and sin not and search my own heart. I need to pray for a softening of mine and theirs. Because if I hold onto it, God won’t be able to fill my heart with joy when he brings them around – in his own way – and truth brings healing and he pours out blessings on them.

Prayer:

Lord, I will rest in you. I will be silent and listen when my heart is heavy with things that are not within my ability to change. I need you to change my attitude to one of prayer instead. Remind me that these things can only be fixed by you. I don’t want to miss what you’re going to do. Please show me the things that bring you joy and let them bring me joy as well.

By Bonnie – 217staff team