Thoughts for the Day

You who have made me see many troubles and calamities
will revive me again;
from the depths of the earth
you will bring me up again.
You will increase my honour,
and comfort me once again.

I will also praise you with the harp
for your faithfulness, O my God;
I will sing praises to you with the lyre,
O Holy One of Israel.
My lips will shout for joy
when I sing praises to you;
my soul also, which you have rescued.
All day long my tongue will talk of your righteous help,
for those who tried to do me harm
have been put to shame, and disgraced.

(Church in Wales, New Revised Standard Version)

Thoughts

When do we speak to God, and ask for His help? Which of the following apply to you?

• When I'm in trouble.
• When I 'm sick.
• When I can't do something.
• When I'm afraid.
• When I'm desperate.
• When I'm concerned for others.
• When I need comforting.
• .........................................?

Now, think about the times you turn to God for the following reasons:

• To say thank You.
• To praise Him.
• To commune with Him.
• To be silent before Him.
• To listen for His voice.
• ..............................................?

We don't know who wrote Psalm 71, but it seems to be from someone in old age who has had a hard life. However, he has a strong relationship with God. It's a long psalm and we only look at a small section here, but we see the way the writer turns to God for help when in need. It also shows us his hope and his trust in God, and out of this comes an overwhelming desire to thank and praise God.

Lord God,
teach us how to pray,
and when to turn to You.
Help us to create a permanent
and lasting fellowship with You,
and not just one founded on desperation.
May we never forget to thank You
and to praise You,
as we recall all that You have done for us
over the years.
Amen.