Lord, Consider My Lament

Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament.

Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray.

In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.

For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome.

The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong; you destroy those who tell lies. The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, Lord, detest.

But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple.

Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies—make your way straight before me.

Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies.

Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you.

But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Psalm 5:1-12

Prayerfulness is not an event; it is a way of being in relationship with God. This kind of intimate relationship is developed when God’s people view prayerfulness as a way of life.

Prayer is our way of connecting with God in all of life’s circumstances. God is always listening. We can talk with Him any time throughout the day.

In prayer, God hears more than your words – He listens to your heart.

Our Daily Bread – March 15, 2015