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- Apr 25, 2006
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The heart's desire
May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. Psalm 20:1
The Psalms are a lifeline for many people. I wonder if, when David wrote them, he could ever have imagined the comfort and help they would bring.
In times of joy they help us to praise and worship God. In times of tragedy, bereavement, anguish of body, mind or spirit, we can find consolation and hope. "The Psalms are the many-toned voice of prayer in the widest sense, as the soul's address to God in confession, petition, intercession, meditation, thanksgiving and praise, both in public and private" - this quote beautifully describes the Psalms.
Today's reading is more than just words; it's as if a blanket has been laid over us - protecting, helping and comforting - everything our heart could possibly wish for. Sometimes we become so troubled and restless that we need to be wrapped up like a child and taken to rest in the Father's arms. It's at these moments the Holy Spirit can at last breath his peace and strength back into us.
If you've ever held a wriggling restless child you'll know it's difficult to speak calmly and soothingly to them, but as you continue they eventually settle and give in - nestling down, and giving up the fight.
I hope today you will find comfort in this thought: God will protect you and is very near when you call out to Him.
Dear Lord, thank You that You are only a prayer away. May I find rest in You and peace for my heart. Amen.
May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you. Psalm 20:1
The Psalms are a lifeline for many people. I wonder if, when David wrote them, he could ever have imagined the comfort and help they would bring.
In times of joy they help us to praise and worship God. In times of tragedy, bereavement, anguish of body, mind or spirit, we can find consolation and hope. "The Psalms are the many-toned voice of prayer in the widest sense, as the soul's address to God in confession, petition, intercession, meditation, thanksgiving and praise, both in public and private" - this quote beautifully describes the Psalms.
Today's reading is more than just words; it's as if a blanket has been laid over us - protecting, helping and comforting - everything our heart could possibly wish for. Sometimes we become so troubled and restless that we need to be wrapped up like a child and taken to rest in the Father's arms. It's at these moments the Holy Spirit can at last breath his peace and strength back into us.
If you've ever held a wriggling restless child you'll know it's difficult to speak calmly and soothingly to them, but as you continue they eventually settle and give in - nestling down, and giving up the fight.
I hope today you will find comfort in this thought: God will protect you and is very near when you call out to Him.
Dear Lord, thank You that You are only a prayer away. May I find rest in You and peace for my heart. Amen.
