Answer me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; be gracious to me and hear my prayer.
2 O sons of men, how long will my honor become a reproach? How long will you love what is worthless and aim at deception?Selah.
3 But know that the Lord has set apart the godly man for Himself; the Lord hears when I call to Him.
3 But know that the Lord has set apart the godly man for Himself; the Lord hears when I call to Him.
4 Tremble, and do not sin; meditate in your heart upon your bed, and be still. Selah.
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and trust in the Lord.
5 Offer the sacrifices of righteousness, and trust in the Lord.
6 Many are saying, “Who will show us any good?” Lift up the light of Your countenance upon us, O Lord!
7 You have put gladness in my heart, more than when their grain and new wine abound.
8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety.
7 You have put gladness in my heart, more than when their grain and new wine abound.
8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep, for You alone, O Lord, make me to dwell in safety.
Reminder: "praying effectively" involves knowing God's will. When we pray in His will (in His name), He may choose to not answer those prayers in the time period that we would like, or HOW we would like - but He will answer those prayers!
It is God's will:
- that we tremble before God (4:4)
- that we do not sin (4:4)
- that we meditate (4:4)
- that we do not act rashly, but wait for the Lord's word (4:4)
- that we offer righteous sacrifices to the Lord (4:5)
- that we trust the Lord (4:5)
Today's prayer:
Dear Lord Jesus, You are the Almighty and holy God who came to die for our sins because You love us and want a personal relationship with us. With a thankful, grateful heart, help me strive to live a holy life as a righteous sacrifice to You. Everything I have is Yours. And I trust that You will use me as You see fit. And I know You will use me, even if I something up, because You guide me to reconciliation.
You are omnipresent and all-knowing and want to impart Your wisdom to a willing heart. Help me, as I dwell on Your scriptures, to understand Your will and purpose to a deeper extent. And help me to apply what I learn. Forgive my rash behavior when I think I know how to "fix" something - without consulting with You first. Help me to stop and pray, and really think through Your scripture, so that I will truly hear Your guidance and act accordingly. Amen.
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