“Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer (Ps. 4:1).”
Sovereign Lord, I turn to you when I am in distress. Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. For I know you are a God who listens. Provide wisdom and strength so I can make good decisions. Thank you for being gracious and kind towards me.
“How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods? Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him (Ps. 4:2-3).”
Heavenly Father, your creation has rebelled. I have rebelled as well. Please blot out my transgressions. Forgive me of my iniquity. But why, O Lord, will people who are called by your name turn glory into shame? Will not the righteous be granted pardon? How long will you allow your creation to love delusions and seek false gods? For it seems that the world worships everything in creation, except you. Are they afraid of your holiness?
I do know that you hear prayer. You have set apart your faithful servants. I am sure there are many others who have not bowed the knee to Baal or any of the other false gods. You do have a remnant that you will save by your strong right hand. Even if the world refuses to acknowledge your great name, we will continue to sing praises to you, our Lord and Savior.
“Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent. Offer sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord (Ps. 4:4-5).”
Righteous Father, fear of you is the beginning of wisdom and knowledge. This type of fear is reverence. We do tremble at your awesome power, and at the same time, know that perfect love casts out all fear. You are a God of mercy and grace. Thank you for your immense power and divine love.
Help us to search our hearts and be silent. Let us stand still and know you are God. May we look heavenward and be reminded of the abode we have in your kingdom. As we offer sacrifices of praise and thanksgiving, may we forever sing of your righteousness and goodness. May our hearts magnify your truth and objective reality.
“Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound (Ps. 4:6-7).”
Dear God, may your brilliant light shine on us. Fill our hearts with joy. We know that prosperity and goodness come from you. Let us not be tempted to build treasures here on earth, where rust and moth destroy it. Instead, remind us to place our treasures in heaven, where nothing can destroy it. Our security and salvation is found in you. Praise God for such good news!
“In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety (Ps. 4:8).”
While the world is full of anxiety, I will find peace and rest in you. When events in my life bring distress, I will lie down and meditate on your grace. For you alone make me dwell in safety. For you alone are my rock and my redeemer. I have nothing to fear. You will never leave me or forsake me. Praise be to God!
Prayer written by Chad A. Damitz
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