I Am In Distress

Be merciful to me, Lord, for I am in distress; my eyes grow weak with sorrow, my soul and body with grief. My life is consumed by anguish and my years by groaning; my strength fails because of my affliction, and my bones grow weak. Because of all my enemies, I am the utter contempt of my neighbors and an object of dread to my closest friends—those who see me on the street flee from me. I am forgotten as though I were dead; I have become like broken pottery.For I hear many whispering, “Terror on every side!” They conspire against me and plot to take my life.

But I trust in you, Lord; I say, “You are my God.” My times are in your hands; deliver me from the hands of my enemies, from those who pursue me. Let your face shine on your servant; save me in your unfailing love. Let me not be put to shame, Lord, for I have cried out to you; but let the wicked be put to shame and be silent in the realm of the dead. Let their lying lips be silenced, for with pride and contempt they speak arrogantly against the righteous.

How abundant are the good things that you have stored up for those who fear you, that you bestow in the sight of all, on those who take refuge in you. In the shelter of your presence you hide them from all human intrigues; you keep them safe in your dwelling from accusing tongues.

Psalm 31:9-20

David’s hope was not in his own strength, but in God. He told our Lord that he trusted Him. David said “You are my God.” David asked for God’s Hand in delivering him away from his enemies.

The Psalms invite us to pour out our hearts to God, because He has stored up His goodness for those who trust in Him.

When in your deepest need, find God’s comfort in the Psalms.

Our Daily Bread – May 4, 2013