Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
Compassionate Love and Healing
The Lord has heard my cry for mercy;
the Lord accepts my prayers (V.9)
This psalm composed by King David, describing a time in his life when he was under some strain - either some mental strain or a chronic illness. It does not say so, but one could imagine that this was from the time when he was on run from Saul. After being anointed as the King, David was on the run for many years, and had to remain in hiding for a long time before he could assume his place as the King of Israel. Before that, he was being hunted by both his former friends and his foes, and he had no place to hide.
He could only keep his strength because he had strong faith in the Lord, and he knew that he could depend on him. However, David did not see any relief for a long time, and he was beginning to lose faith when he sang this psalm. He beseeched God to come to his rescue as he was most steadfast servant. He asks of God, how long would He stay away, and continue to let him suffering?
Then, in a moment of clarity, he sees that God has accepted his prayer - and is reaffirmed that God is with him because his enemies have not been able to consume him so far. He knows that his foes will turn back, and they will be ashamed and regret their actions. This passage tells us that in times of trial, God still stays with us, and we must not lose hope, that we shall be victorious over any troubling situation. The most important verse in this passage would be Psalm 6:3 - "My soul also greatly troubled. But you, O LORD - how long?" This verse identifies with so many of our faithful who undergo deep suffering, and are at the verge of losing their faith, because of their inability to respite from their problems. This is a real problem in today's world, when it is becoming harder and harder to hold fast to one's faith. This passage will reaffirm one's faith.
Prayer: O LORD, strengthen us to overcome all the trials and tribulations in our life , and let us not forget that Your side is always the victorious. Amen.
Thought for the day: Isaiah 58:11 - And the LORD will continually guide you, And satisfy your desire in scorched places, And give strength to your bones; And you will be like a watered garden, And like a spring of water whose waters do not fail. “God’s whisper of comfort quiets the noise of our trials”
Vivek Sony Abraham, London