Chapter 6 – Strolling with the Shepherd (Devotions from Psalms)

Scripture: “The LORD hath heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.” – (6:9)

Observation: This psalm of David is filled with great anguish and despair. David speaks to his grief over circumstances in his life, but regardless of what has  happened, he clings to his faith. He is confident the Lord hears his prayer and will ultimately deliver him.

Application: There are times in our lives when we are overwhelmed with circumstances. Those can range from catastrophic illnesses, financial struggles, broken relationships, and more… even grievous sins we ourselves have committed! We pour our hearts out to the Lord, but He seems to be silent. No answers come. Does God really care? Will He forgive once again? Does He even hear?

Here is what He says in His Word:

• “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” – 1 Peter 5:7
  • Yes, God most certainly cares! He wants us to share every burden with Him. He is ready to meet every need that we have in life, but we must remember that God sees the big picture, and He will answer according to His perfect plan for our lives. Sometimes that means we have to wait, and waiting is never easy.
• “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” – 1 John 1:9
  • Yes, God forgives! When we come to Him with a penitent heart, God is quick to forgive and restore! Remember, Philippians 1:6 reminds us that we are a work in progress. To expect perfection just because you are saved holds yourself up to a standard you can never meet. God forgives every sin every time we ask… no matter how many times we sin.
• “The righteous cry, and the LORD heareth, and delivereth them out of all their troubles.” – Psalm 34:17
  • Yes, God hears! In fact, Isaiah 65:24 tells us that God hears us even before we call out to Him! One of the greatest blessings of salvation through Christ is access to God the Father 24/7. Whenever we pray, God inclines His ear to us, and He will answer.

Prayer: Dearest heavenly Father, what comfort I find in Your Word that reassures me that You hear me each time I pray. Just to know I can come before your throne boldly and without fear fills me with such gratitude. Thank You that Your forgiveness has no limit. Thank You that You want me to share everything that is on my heart with You. Thank You for Your great love that is everlasting. I rest in You; I trust in You, O God, my Saviour. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray. Amen.

God answers prayer, O do not doubt Him;
God answers prayer, believe His Word:
God answers prayer, now venture on Him,
His Word the test of time has stood.

God answers prayer, O soul, believe Him;
God answers prayer, I’ve proved Him true!
God answers prayer, now venture on Him;
He answered me, He’ll answer you.

God answers prayer, O child so weary;
God answers prayer, pure you shall be:
God answers prayer, His blood availeth;
From self and sin He’ll make you free.

(from “God Answers Prayer” by George Bennard)

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“Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all.” – Psalm 34:19