Category Archives: Learning To Pray Effectively

Compassionate, Grace / Forgiveness, Learning To Pray Effectively, Loving / Kind, Merciful, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Repenting from Sin, Seeking God

Seeking God’s Mercy for Our Nation (Psalm 85)

Have you ever wondered about the spiritual state of our nation? Psalm 85 offers profound insights into the dynamics between a nation and its Creator, reflecting on the blessings that come with obedience and the consequences of turning away from God.

Background Context: Psalm 85 reflects on Israel’s spiritual journey, from times of favor and restoration to seasons of rebellion and divine discipline. It resonates with nations like the United States, founded on faith yet grappling with secularism and moral relativism over time.

Reconnect: Just as Israel experienced cycles of faithfulness and waywardness, nations today, including the USA, face similar challenges. We must examine our collective conscience and turn back to God’s timeless principles to restore His favor upon our land.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 85

Prayer for God’s Mercy upon the Nation.

For the choir director. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

1O LORD, You showed favor to Your land;
You restored the captivity of Jacob.

      2You forgave the iniquity of Your people;
You covered all their sin.

Selah.

      3You withdrew all Your fury;
You turned away from Your burning anger.

      4Restore us, O God of our salvation,
And cause Your indignation toward us to cease.

      5Will You be angry with us forever?
Will You prolong Your anger to all generations?

      6Will You not Yourself revive us again,
That Your people may rejoice in You?

      7Show us Your lovingkindness, O LORD,
And grant us Your salvation.

      8I will hear what God the LORD will say;
For He will speak peace to His people, to His godly ones;
But let them not turn back to folly.

      9Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him,
That glory may dwell in our land.

      10Lovingkindness and truth have met together;
Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.

      11Truth springs from the earth,
And righteousness looks down from heaven.

      12Indeed, the LORD will give what is good,
And our land will yield its produce.

      13Righteousness will go before Him
And will make His footsteps into a way.

Key Summary Points:

  • Divine Expectations: God desires reverence and obedience from nations. We cannot redefine morality according to cultural whims and expect His blessings.
  • National Repentance: Like Israel, nations need sincere repentance to experience God’s forgiveness and restoration of His favor.
  • Hope in God’s Mercy: Despite national shortcomings, God is merciful. He waits for our collective return to Him, ready to forgive and bless abundantly.

Call to Action:

  • Personal Examination: Reflect on your own relationship with God and how it influences your impact on society.
  • Intercessory Prayer: Pray for revival among believers in your nation, that they may shine God’s light and influence others to seek Him.
  • National Repentance: Pray for leaders and citizens to turn from worldly ideologies and embrace God’s truth, leading to national healing and renewal.

Closing: As we meditate on Psalm 85, let us earnestly seek God’s mercy for our nation. May we, as individuals and communities of faith, embody His truth and grace, serving as beacons of hope and reconciliation in a world in need of His divine intervention.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we humbly come before You, acknowledging our nation’s need for Your mercy and forgiveness. Grant us the courage to repent and turn from our worldly ways. Strengthen Your people to boldly proclaim Your truth and love, leading others to seek Your face. May Your kingdom come and Your will be done in our nation as it is in heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively

Insights on Prayer: Learning from Jesus (Luke 11:1-13)

Have you ever felt uncertain about how to pray or wondered if your prayers really make a difference?

In Luke 11:1-13, Jesus teaches us valuable lessons about prayer that can transform our approach to communication with God.

Background Context: Luke 11 opens with Jesus praying, prompting one of His disciples to ask Him to teach them how to pray. Jesus then gives them the model prayer, often known as the Lord’s Prayer, and follows it with teachings on persistence in prayer and the Father’s willingness to give good gifts to His children.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 11:1-13

Instruction about Prayer

     1It happened that while Jesus was praying in a certain place, after He had finished, one of His disciples said to Him, “Lord, teach us to pray just as John also taught his disciples.”

2And He said to them, “When you pray, say:
‘Father, hallowed be Your name.
Your kingdom come.

      3‘Give us each day our daily bread.

      4‘And forgive us our sins,
For we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us.
And lead us not into temptation.’”

      5Then He said to them, “Suppose one of you has a friend, and goes to him at midnight and says to him, ‘Friend, lend me three loaves; 6for a friend of mine has come to me from a journey, and I have nothing to set before him’; 7and from inside he answers and says, ‘Do not bother me; the door has already been shut and my children and I are in bed; I cannot get up and give you anything.’ 8“I tell you, even though he will not get up and give him anything because he is his friend, yet because of his persistence he will get up and give him as much as he needs.

      9“So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. 10“For everyone who asks, receives; and he who seeks, finds; and to him who knocks, it will be opened. 11“Now suppose one of you fathers is asked by his son for a fish; he will not give him a snake instead of a fish, will he? 12“Or if he is asked for an egg, he will not give him a scorpion, will he? 13“If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him?”

Message: In Luke 11:1-13, Jesus provides profound insights into prayer:

  • The Model Prayer: Jesus teaches His disciples how to pray, emphasizing reverence for God, submission to His will, dependence on Him for daily needs, forgiveness of sins, and deliverance from temptation (Luke 11:2-4).
  • Persistence in Prayer: Jesus tells a parable about a friend who persists in asking for bread at midnight, illustrating the importance of persistence in prayer and God’s responsiveness to our persistent requests (Luke 11:5-8).
  • God’s Goodness in Giving: Jesus assures His disciples that if earthly fathers know how to give good gifts to their children, how much more will our Heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him! (Luke 11:9-13).

Summary Key Points:

  • The Model of Prayer: The Lord’s Prayer serves as a guide for our prayer life, focusing on God’s glory, His kingdom, our daily needs, forgiveness, and protection from temptation.
  • Persistence and Faith: Jesus encourages us to persist in prayer, trusting that God hears and answers according to His perfect timing and wisdom.
  • Assurance of God’s Goodness: Our Heavenly Father desires to give us good gifts, particularly the Holy Spirit, who empowers us in our Christian walk and guides us in prayer.

Call to Action:

  • Embrace Persistent Prayer: Commit to a life of persistent prayer, trusting in God’s faithfulness and His perfect timing for answering prayers.
  • Dive Deeper into How to Pray: Read more – How to Pray Effectively
  • Follow the Model Prayer: Use the Lord’s Prayer as a framework for your own prayers, focusing on God’s glory, His will, daily needs, forgiveness, and spiritual protection.
  • Seek the Holy Spirit: Ask God to fill you with His Holy Spirit daily, empowering you to live according to His will and to pray with faith and expectancy.

Applying in Our Lives: Let us approach prayer with confidence, knowing that God hears us and delights in answering our prayers according to His will. May we persistently seek His face, aligning our hearts with His kingdom purposes, and relying on His provision and guidance in every aspect of our lives.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us the power and importance of prayer through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Help us to pray with persistence and faith, trusting in Your goodness and perfect timing. Fill us afresh with Your Holy Spirit that we may live according to Your will and bring glory to Your name. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively, Persecution / Glorifying God, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Seeking God

Cry Out to God for Help in Times of Trouble (Psalm 83)

Have you ever felt surrounded by enemies or overwhelmed by challenges you face, desperate for God’s intervention?

Psalm 83 resonates with the cry of the oppressed, seeking divine help in the face of overwhelming opposition or struggle.

Reconnect: Continuing our journey through the Psalms, we arrive at Psalm 83, a poignant plea for God’s protection amidst fierce adversaries. As we explore this heartfelt prayer, let us uncover its timeless relevance in our own struggles against spiritual and earthly foes as well as consider that sometimes the struggles or challenges we find overwhelming, may not be “enemies” but difficult situations we find ourselves dealing with.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Psalm 83

God Implored to Confound His Enemies.

A Song, a Psalm of Asaph.

     1O God, do not remain quiet;
Do not be silent and, O God, do not be still.

      2For behold, Your enemies make an uproar,
And those who hate You have exalted themselves.

      3They make shrewd plans against Your people,
And conspire together against Your treasured ones.

      4They have said, “Come, and let us wipe them out as a nation,
That the name of Israel be remembered no more.”

      5For they have conspired together with one mind;
Against You they make a covenant:

      6The tents of Edom and the Ishmaelites,
Moab and the Hagrites;

      7Gebal and Ammon and Amalek,
Philistia with the inhabitants of Tyre;

      8Assyria also has joined with them;
They have become a help to the children of Lot.

Selah.

      9Deal with them as with Midian,
As with Sisera and Jabin at the torrent of Kishon,

      10Who were destroyed at En-dor,
Who became as dung for the ground.

      11Make their nobles like Oreb and Zeeb
And all their princes like Zebah and Zalmunna,

      12Who said, “Let us possess for ourselves
The pastures of God.”

      13O my God, make them like the whirling dust,
Like chaff before the wind.

      14Like fire that burns the forest
And like a flame that sets the mountains on fire,

      15So pursue them with Your tempest
And terrify them with Your storm.

      16Fill their faces with dishonor,
That they may seek Your name, O LORD.

      17Let them be ashamed and dismayed forever,
And let them be humiliated and perish,

      18That they may know that You alone, whose name is the LORD,
Are the Most High over all the earth.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Setting of Conflict: Psalm 83 opens with a vivid depiction of nations conspiring against God’s people, plotting their destruction. The psalmist enumerates various enemy nations, symbolizing the multifaceted threats faced by the faithful.
  • A Desperate Plea for Help: Amidst the turmoil, the psalmist implores God to arise and defend His people. The language is urgent, reflecting the dire circumstances and the profound need for divine intervention.
  • Recalling God’s Mighty Deeds: In verses 9-12, the psalmist invokes God’s past acts of deliverance, appealing to His faithfulness and power. By remembering God’s interventions in history, the psalmist strengthens the case for His intervention in the present.
  • Prayer for Divine Judgment: The psalm concludes with a plea for God to confound and scatter the enemy forces, demonstrating His sovereignty over all nations. The ultimate goal is not merely victory for Israel but the vindication of God’s name and glory.
  • Hope Amidst Despair: Despite the dire circumstances portrayed in Psalm 83, there is a glimmer of hope in the unwavering trust placed in God’s character. The psalmist finds solace in the belief that God will ultimately triumph over the forces of evil.

Call to Action:

  • Pray for Deliverance: Like the psalmist, earnestly seek God’s intervention in times of trouble, trusting in His power to deliver you from adversity.
  • Remember God’s Faithfulness: Reflect on God’s past faithfulness in your life and in history, drawing strength from His track record of deliverance.
  • Stand Firm in Faith: In the face of opposition and adversity, stand firm in your faith, knowing that God is sovereign and mighty to save.

Closing: Psalm 83 serves as a poignant reminder of the reality of spiritual warfare and the desperate need for God’s intervention in times of crisis. Let us echo the psalmist’s cry for deliverance and find hope in the assurance of God’s ultimate victory over all adversaries.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we lift our voices to You in times of trouble, seeking Your deliverance from the schemes of the enemy. Strengthen our faith, O Lord, and grant us the assurance that You are mighty to save. May Your name be exalted above all, and may Your kingdom come, bringing peace and victory to Your people. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Comforter, Faith / Trusting God, Learning To Pray Effectively, Peace / Rest, Protector / Deliverer, Seeking God, Strong in Our Weakness

Finding Hope in the Darkness: Reflections from (Psalm 77)

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of life’s challenges, wondering if God hears your prayers in the midst of your struggles?

Psalm 77 offers a poignant exploration of doubt, despair, and ultimately, rediscovered faith in the midst of adversity.

Reconnect: Psalm 77 serves as a heartfelt reflection where the psalmist wrestles with doubt and despair while seeking solace and renewed trust in God’s faithfulness. This introspective journey aligns with the broader themes of lament and praise found throughout the Psalms.

(Summarized and continued after sripture)

Psalm 77

Comfort in Trouble from Recalling God’s Mighty Deeds.

For the choir director; according to Jeduthun. A Psalm of Asaph.

1My voice rises to God, and I will cry aloud;
My voice rises to God, and He will hear me.

      2In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord;
In the night my hand was stretched out without weariness;
My soul refused to be comforted.

      3When I remember God, then I am disturbed;
When I sigh, then my spirit grows faint.

Selah.

      4You have held my eyelids open;
I am so troubled that I cannot speak.

      5I have considered the days of old,
The years of long ago.

      6I will remember my song in the night;
I will meditate with my heart,
And my spirit ponders:

      7Will the Lord reject forever?
And will He never be favorable again?

      8Has His lovingkindness ceased forever?
Has His promise come to an end forever?

      9Has God forgotten to be gracious,
Or has He in anger withdrawn His compassion?

Selah.

      10Then I said, “It is my grief,
That the right hand of the Most High has changed.”

      11I shall remember the deeds of the LORD;
Surely I will remember Your wonders of old.

      12I will meditate on all Your work
And muse on Your deeds.

      13Your way, O God, is holy;
What god is great like our God?

      14You are the God who works wonders;
You have made known Your strength among the peoples.

      15You have by Your power redeemed Your people,
The sons of Jacob and Joseph.

Selah.

      16The waters saw You, O God;
The waters saw You, they were in anguish;
The deeps also trembled.

      17The clouds poured out water;
The skies gave forth a sound;
Your arrows flashed here and there.

      18The sound of Your thunder was in the whirlwind;
The lightnings lit up the world;
The earth trembled and shook.

      19Your way was in the sea
And Your paths in the mighty waters,
And Your footprints may not be known.

      20You led Your people like a flock
By the hand of Moses and Aaron.

Summary Key Points:

  • The psalmist candidly expresses feelings of distress, crying out to God in the midst of darkness and uncertainty (Psalm 77:1-3).
  • Despite grappling with doubt and unanswered prayers, the psalmist finds comfort in recalling God’s past faithfulness and mighty deeds (Psalm 77:4-9).
  • Through introspection and prayer, the psalmist’s perspective shifts from despair to hope as they affirm God’s sovereignty and redemptive power (Psalm 77:10-15).

Call to Action:

  • Embrace the practice of lament as a pathway to honest expression before God, trusting that He hears and understands our deepest struggles.
  • Cultivate a habit of remembering God’s faithfulness in times of trial, anchoring your faith in His unchanging character and promises.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, in moments of darkness and doubt, we turn to You as our source of strength and refuge. Teach us to lean on Your faithfulness, even when circumstances seem overwhelming. Help us to find hope in Your steadfast love and unwavering presence. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Healer, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Learning To Pray Effectively, Miracles, Prayer, Purposeful / Intentional

Embracing the Practice of Prayer: Following Jesus’ Example

In our fast-paced lives, it’s easy to fall into the trap of busyness, neglecting the essential practice of prayer. Yet, as we delve into Luke 5:12-16, we’re reminded of Jesus’ profound example of prioritizing prayer amidst His bustling ministry.

Reconnect: As we delve into Luke 5:12-16, it’s essential to reconnect with the broader context of Luke’s Gospel. In the preceding verses, we witness Jesus calling His first disciples and performing miraculous signs, including the extraordinary catch of fish. This sets the stage for the passage we’re exploring, where Jesus demonstrates His authority not only through physical healing but also through the discipline of prayer.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 5:12-16

      12While He was in one of the cities, behold, there was a man covered with leprosy; and when he saw Jesus, he fell on his face and implored Him, saying, “Lord, if You are willing, You can make me clean.” 13And He stretched out His hand and touched him, saying, “I am willing; be cleansed.” And immediately the leprosy left him. 14And He ordered him to tell no one, “But go and show yourself to the priest and make an offering for your cleansing, just as Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.” 15But the news about Him was spreading even farther, and large crowds were gathering to hear Him and to be healed of their sicknesses. 16But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Healing and Compassion: Jesus encounters a man covered in leprosy, a condition not only physically debilitating but also socially isolating. Despite the risks of defilement, Jesus reaches out, touching the man and offering healing and restoration.
  2. A Pattern of Prayer: Amidst His ministry’s demands and the crowds clamoring for His attention, Jesus regularly withdraws to pray. He seeks solace in the wilderness, finding communion with the Father, reaffirming the importance of intimate communication with God.
  3. Prioritizing Spiritual Renewal: Jesus’ dedication to prayer underscores its vital role in His life. Despite the urgency of His mission, He recognizes the need for spiritual nourishment, carving out moments of solitude to commune with God.

Call to Action:

  1. Make Time for Prayer: Let us emulate Jesus’ commitment to prayer by carving out intentional moments in our daily lives to commune with God, seeking His guidance and strength.
  2. Prioritize Spiritual Renewal: Recognize the importance of spiritual nourishment amidst life’s busyness. Set aside distractions and dedicate time to cultivate intimacy with God through prayer and reflection.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, teach us to follow Jesus’ example of prioritizing prayer in our lives. Grant us the wisdom to recognize the profound significance of communion with You, even amidst the demands of our daily routines. May prayer be the anchor that grounds us in Your presence and empowers us to walk in Your ways. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Help / Serve Others, Interceding for Others, Leadership, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Purposeful / Intentional

A Prayer for Justice and Righteousness (Psalm 72)

Have you ever prayed for a world filled with justice, righteousness, and peace, where the needs of the oppressed are met, and the vulnerable are protected?

In Psalm 72, we encounter a heartfelt prayer for the reign of a righteous king who embodies God’s justice and compassion, offering hope for a world transformed by His divine rule.

Reconnect: As we delve into Psalm 72, we find ourselves drawn into the vision of a kingdom characterized by righteousness, justice, and peace. This psalm paints a vivid picture of God’s ideal ruler, whose reign brings blessing and prosperity to all people, especially the poor and marginalized.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 72

The Reign of the Righteous King.

A Psalm of Solomon.

     1Give the king Your judgments, O God,
And Your righteousness to the king’s son.

      2May he judge Your people with righteousness
And Your afflicted with justice.

      3Let the mountains bring peace to the people,
And the hills, in righteousness.

      4May he vindicate the afflicted of the people,
Save the children of the needy
And crush the oppressor.

      5Let them fear You while the sun endures,
And as long as the moon, throughout all generations.

      6May he come down like rain upon the mown grass,
Like showers that water the earth.

      7In his days may the righteous flourish,
And abundance of peace till the moon is no more.

      8May he also rule from sea to sea
And from the River to the ends of the earth.

      9Let the nomads of the desert bow before him,
And his enemies lick the dust.

      10Let the kings of Tarshish and of the islands bring presents;
The kings of Sheba and Seba offer gifts.

      11And let all kings bow down before him,
All nations serve him.

      12For he will deliver the needy when he cries for help,
The afflicted also, and him who has no helper.

      13He will have compassion on the poor and needy,
And the lives of the needy he will save.

      14He will rescue their life from oppression and violence,
And their blood will be precious in his sight;

      15So may he live, and may the gold of Sheba be given to him;
And let them pray for him continually;
Let them bless him all day long.

      16May there be abundance of grain in the earth on top of the mountains;
Its fruit will wave like the cedars of Lebanon;
And may those from the city flourish like vegetation of the earth.

      17May his name endure forever;
May his name increase as long as the sun shines;
And let men bless themselves by him;
Let all nations call him blessed.

      18Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel,
Who alone works wonders.

      19And blessed be His glorious name forever;
And may the whole earth be filled with His glory.
Amen, and Amen.

      20The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A Prayer for the King: Psalm 72 opens with a prayer for the king, petitioning God to endow him with wisdom, righteousness, and compassion. The psalmist expresses hope that the king will rule with justice and defend the cause of the oppressed, bringing prosperity and abundance to the land.
  2. The King’s Reign: Throughout the psalm, we glimpse the attributes of the ideal king whose reign embodies God’s justice and righteousness. He champions the cause of the poor and needy, delivering them from oppression and violence. Under his rule, peace flourishes, and the land prospers.
  3. The Impact of Righteous Rule: The psalmist envisions the far-reaching effects of righteous governance, with the king’s rule extending from sea to sea, encompassing all nations and peoples. The entire earth is transformed by the king’s reign, as righteousness and peace abound in every corner of creation.

Call to Action: As we meditate on the message of Psalm 72, let us:

  1. Pray for Righteous Leadership: Like the psalmist, let us pray for leaders who govern with wisdom, righteousness, and compassion. May we intercede for those in positions of authority, asking God to grant them the insight and integrity to rule justly and mercifully.
  2. Advocate for Justice: In our communities and societies, let us be advocates for justice and champions of the oppressed. May we speak out against injustice and work tirelessly to ensure that all people are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect.
  3. Live Righteously: As followers of God, let us embody the principles of righteousness and compassion in our own lives. May our words and actions reflect God’s love and mercy, as we strive to bring about His kingdom of justice and peace here on earth.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the vision of justice and righteousness presented in Psalm 72. Grant us the courage to pray for righteous leadership, the strength to advocate for justice, and the humility to live righteously in our own lives. May Your kingdom come, and Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Depression / Discouragement, Learning To Pray Effectively, Psalms, Seeking God, Tribulation

A Cry for Deliverance: Psalm 69

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the trials and tribulations of life, crying out to God for deliverance from the depths of despair?

In Psalm 69, we encounter the heartfelt plea of the psalmist as he wrestles with adversity, persecution, and the weight of his own sin.

Join us as we explore the raw honesty and unwavering faith expressed in this psalm, finding hope and solace in the midst of suffering.

Reconnect: In the preceding psalms, we have witnessed the psalmist’s intimate communion with God, pouring out his heart in times of both joy and sorrow. In Psalm 69, we encounter a deeply personal and poignant expression of the psalmist’s anguish and desperation, as he cries out to God for deliverance from his enemies and the consequences of his own sin.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 69

A Cry of Distress and Imprecation on Adversaries.

For the choir director; according to Shoshannim. A Psalm of David.

     1Save me, O God,
For the waters have threatened my life.

      2I have sunk in deep mire, and there is no foothold;
I have come into deep waters, and a flood overflows me.

      3I am weary with my crying; my throat is parched;
My eyes fail while I wait for my God.

      4Those who hate me without a cause are more than the hairs of my head;
Those who would destroy me are powerful, being wrongfully my enemies;
What I did not steal, I then have to restore.

      5O God, it is You who knows my folly,
And my wrongs are not hidden from You.

      6May those who wait for You not be ashamed through me, O Lord GOD of hosts;
May those who seek You not be dishonored through me, O God of Israel,

      7Because for Your sake I have borne reproach;
Dishonor has covered my face.

      8I have become estranged from my brothers
And an alien to my mother’s sons.

      9For zeal for Your house has consumed me,
And the reproaches of those who reproach You have fallen on me.

      10When I wept in my soul with fasting,
It became my reproach.

      11When I made sackcloth my clothing,
I became a byword to them.

      12Those who sit in the gate talk about me,
And I am the song of the drunkards.

      13But as for me, my prayer is to You, O LORD, at an acceptable time;
O God, in the greatness of Your lovingkindness,
Answer me with Your saving truth.

      14Deliver me from the mire and do not let me sink;
May I be delivered from my foes and from the deep waters.

      15May the flood of water not overflow me
Nor the deep swallow me up,
Nor the pit shut its mouth on me.

      16Answer me, O LORD, for Your lovingkindness is good;
According to the greatness of Your compassion, turn to me,

      17And do not hide Your face from Your servant,
For I am in distress; answer me quickly.

      18Oh draw near to my soul and redeem it;
Ransom me because of my enemies!

      19You know my reproach and my shame and my dishonor;
All my adversaries are before You.

      20Reproach has broken my heart and I am so sick.
And I looked for sympathy, but there was none,
And for comforters, but I found none.

      21They also gave me gall for my food
And for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.

      22May their table before them become a snare;
And when they are in peace, may it become a trap.

      23May their eyes grow dim so that they cannot see,
And make their loins shake continually.

      24Pour out Your indignation on them,
And may Your burning anger overtake them.

      25May their camp be desolate;
May none dwell in their tents.

      26For they have persecuted him whom You Yourself have smitten,
And they tell of the pain of those whom You have wounded.

      27Add iniquity to their iniquity,
And may they not come into Your righteousness.

      28May they be blotted out of the book of life
And may they not be recorded with the righteous.

      29But I am afflicted and in pain;
May Your salvation, O God, set me securely on high.

      30I will praise the name of God with song
And magnify Him with thanksgiving.

      31And it will please the LORD better than an ox
Or a young bull with horns and hoofs.

      32The humble have seen it and are glad;
You who seek God, let your heart revive.

      33For the LORD hears the needy
And does not despise His who are prisoners.

      34Let heaven and earth praise Him,
The seas and everything that moves in them.

      35For God will save Zion and build the cities of Judah,
That they may dwell there and possess it.

      36The descendants of His servants will inherit it,
And those who love His name will dwell in it.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Desperate Plea for Deliverance (Psalm 69:1-12): The psalmist begins by crying out to God in distress, overwhelmed by the hostility and persecution of his enemies. He describes his suffering in vivid imagery, comparing it to being engulfed by deep waters and sinking into the mire. Despite his anguish, the psalmist expresses unwavering trust in God, confident that He will come to his rescue.
  2. Endurance Amidst Mockery and Shame (Psalm 69:13-21): The psalmist continues to recount his suffering at the hands of his enemies, enduring mockery, shame, and betrayal. He laments his isolation and loneliness, feeling abandoned even by his closest companions. Yet, amidst his despair, the psalmist maintains his trust in God, appealing to Him for deliverance and vindication.
  3. Prayer for Vindication and Restoration (Psalm 69:22-36): In the final section of the psalm, the tone shifts from lament to petition as the psalmist calls upon God to execute judgment upon his enemies and bring about justice and vindication. He expresses confidence that God will hear his prayers and answer them, restoring him to a place of honor and blessing. The psalm concludes with a declaration of praise and thanksgiving, as the psalmist anticipates God’s deliverance and salvation.

Call to Action:

As we meditate on the profound themes of Psalm 69, let us consider how we can apply its truths to our own lives:

  1. Honesty in Prayer: Like the psalmist, let us cultivate a spirit of honesty and vulnerability in our prayers, laying bare our hearts before God and pouring out our deepest fears, anxieties, and desires. Let us not shy away from expressing our struggles and doubts but approach God with humility and openness.
  2. Trust in God’s Faithfulness: Despite the trials and tribulations we may face, let us hold fast to the assurance of God’s faithfulness and steadfast love. Let us anchor our hope in His promises, confident that He hears our cries and is ever-present in our times of need. Let us trust in His timing and His ways, knowing that He works all things together for our good.
  3. Perseverance in Faith: In moments of adversity and suffering, let us persevere in faith, knowing that our God is a God of deliverance and redemption. Let us not lose heart or grow weary but continue to lift our eyes to Him, seeking His strength and guidance to navigate the challenges of life. Let us draw near to Him in prayer and worship, finding comfort and assurance in His presence.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with hearts laid bare, echoing the cries of the psalmist for deliverance and salvation. In the midst of our trials and tribulations, grant us the grace to trust in Your unfailing love and to find hope and solace in Your presence. Hear our prayers, O Lord, and come to our aid, delivering us from every form of adversity and restoring us to a place of wholeness and blessing. May Your name be glorified forevermore. Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Blessed, Fear / Reverence for God, Learning To Pray Effectively, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Psalms

A Call for Blessings and Praise (Psalm 67)

Have you ever pondered the universal longing for blessings, not just for yourself, but for all of humanity?

In Psalm 67, we find a heartfelt plea for God’s blessings to be poured out on all nations.

Join us as we delve into this beautiful psalm, exploring the significance of seeking blessings not only for ourselves but for the entire world.

Exploring the Context: Psalm 67 is a brief yet profound psalm that emphasizes the universal scope of God’s blessings. It is a plea for God’s favor and grace to shine upon all nations, inviting them to experience His salvation. This psalm reminds us that God’s blessings are not meant to be hoarded but generously shared with the world.

(Summarized and continued after the scripture)

Psalm 67

The Nations Exhorted to Praise God.

For the choir director; with stringed instruments. A Psalm. A Song.

     1God be gracious to us and bless us,
And cause His face to shine upon us—

Selah.

      2That Your way may be known on the earth,
Your salvation among all nations.

      3Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.

      4Let the nations be glad and sing for joy;
For You will judge the peoples with uprightness
And guide the nations on the earth.

Selah.

      5Let the peoples praise You, O God;
Let all the peoples praise You.

      6The earth has yielded its produce;
God, our God, blesses us.

      7God blesses us,
That all the ends of the earth may fear Him.

Summary Key Points:

  1. A Plea for God’s Blessings: The psalm begins with a heartfelt plea for God’s grace and blessings. The psalmist implores God to be gracious and bless us, recognizing that divine favor is the source of all goodness.
  2. A Universal Focus: What sets Psalm 67 apart is its universal perspective. It goes beyond personal blessings and asks for God’s face to shine upon all nations. The psalmist desires that all peoples and nations would come to know God’s salvation.
  3. A Call to Praise: The psalmist understands that when God blesses us, it’s not just for our benefit but for His glory. As recipients of His blessings, we are called to praise Him joyfully and make His ways known among the nations.
  4. God’s Righteous Judgment: The psalm concludes by acknowledging God as the righteous Judge of all nations. His guidance ensures that justice and equity prevail, bringing harmony to a world in need of His guidance.

Call to Action:

As we meditate on Psalm 67, let’s embrace these key takeaways:

  1. Prayer for Global Blessings: Consider incorporating prayers for the well-being of all nations into your daily routine. Pray for peace, justice, and salvation to reach every corner of the world.
  2. Share God’s Blessings: Reflect on the blessings you’ve received and find ways to share them with others. Whether it’s through acts of kindness, generosity, or spreading the message of God’s love, let’s be conduits of His blessings.
  3. Praise and Gratitude: Take time to praise God for His abundant blessings in your life. Recognize that every good gift comes from Him and express your gratitude through worship and thanksgiving.
  4. Engage in Dialogue: Engage in meaningful discussions with friends and family about the importance of seeking blessings not only for ourselves but for the entire world. Share your thoughts in the comments below to continue the conversation.

Let this reflection on Psalm 67 inspire us to be agents of God’s blessings, sharing His love and grace with a world in need.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Learning To Pray Effectively, Protector / Deliverer, Psalms, Strong in Our Weakness, Tribulation, Worry/Anxiety

Finding Refuge in the Lord’s Shelter (Psalm 64)

Have you ever felt surrounded by troubles, like enemies are plotting against you?

In Psalm 64, we find David in a similar situation, seeking refuge and protection from his adversaries.

Psalm 64

Prayer for Deliverance from Secret Enemies.

For the choir director. A Psalm of David.

     1Hear my voice, O God, in my complaint;
Preserve my life from dread of the enemy.

      2Hide me from the secret counsel of evildoers,
From the tumult of those who do iniquity,

      3Who have sharpened their tongue like a sword.
They aimed bitter speech as their arrow,

      4To shoot from concealment at the blameless;
Suddenly they shoot at him, and do not fear.

      5They hold fast to themselves an evil purpose;
They talk of laying snares secretly;
They say, “Who can see them?”

      6They devise injustices, saying,
“We are ready with a well-conceived plot”;
For the inward thought and the heart of a man are deep.

      7But God will shoot at them with an arrow;
Suddenly they will be wounded.

      8So they will make him stumble;
Their own tongue is against them;
All who see them will shake the head.

      9Then all men will fear,
And they will declare the work of God,
And will consider what He has done.

      10The righteous man will be glad in the LORD and will take refuge in Him;
And all the upright in heart will glory.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Crying Out for Protection: In Psalm 64, David begins by crying out to the Lord, asking Him to protect him from his enemies who are plotting against him. He describes their schemes and wicked intentions.
  2. Confidence in God’s Justice: Despite the enemy’s threats, David expresses his confidence in God’s justice. He believes that the Lord will bring judgment upon the wicked and that they will face the consequences of their evil deeds.
  3. Rejoicing in God’s Deliverance: As the psalm progresses, David’s tone shifts from fear to hope. He rejoices in the Lord’s deliverance, trusting that God will intervene on his behalf and vindicate him.
  4. Reflecting on God’s Power: David reflects on God’s power and sovereignty, recognizing that the righteous can find refuge and strength in the Lord even when faced with adversity.

As we read Psalm 64, we can learn to turn to the Lord in times of trouble, just as David did.

Let’s take a moment to reflect on our own challenges and adversities.

Are there areas in our lives where we need God’s protection and deliverance?

Pray to the Lord, seeking His guidance, protection, and justice.

Share your thoughts and prayers with a trusted friend or family member, and let this psalm remind you of the refuge we find in our faithful God and share your thoughts in the comments.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Church / Body of Christ, Learning To Pray Effectively, Modesty, Praise / Worship / Glorify God, Prayer, Seeking God, Teachable

Biblical Roles and Unity in Instruction, Prayer, and Worship (1 Timothy 2:8-15)

Have you ever wondered about the roles of men and women in worship and leadership within the church?

In 1 Timothy 2:8-15, we delve into the rich teachings that offer guidance on this topic and emphasize the importance of unity in our worship practices.

1 Timothy 2:8-15

8Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension.

Women Instructed

      9Likewise, I want women to adorn themselves with proper clothing, modestly and discreetly, not with braided hair and gold or pearls or costly garments, 10but rather by means of good works, as is proper for women making a claim to godliness. 11A woman must quietly receive instruction with entire submissiveness. 12But I do not allow a woman to teach or exercise authority over a man, but to remain quiet. 13For it was Adam who was first created, and then Eve. 14And it was not Adam who was deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression. 15But women will be preserved through the bearing of children if they continue in faith and love and sanctity with self-restraint.

Summary Key Points:

  1. Unified Prayer and Worship: Paul encourages men to lead in prayer, lifting up holy hands without anger or quarreling. This underlines the significance of unified worship in the church, where men play a prominent role in setting an example of devotion and humility during prayer.
  2. Modesty and Good Works: Women are called to adorn themselves with modesty and good works, highlighting the importance of character and godliness over outward appearances. It’s a reminder that our worship should be marked by a humble and reverent heart.
  3. The Role of Women: Paul offers specific guidance on the role of women in gathering for teaching and instruction in the church… guiding  them to learn in quietness and full submission. While this passage has been a topic of debate, it suggests that women should not be in leadership positions over men in the body of Christ when it comes to teaching and instruction, but is not a universal restriction on women’s participation in church activities.
  4. Adam and Eve: A Reminder: The reference to Adam and Eve reminds us of the creation order and the consequences of disobedience. This reinforces the idea that men and women have different roles within the family and the church, emphasizing God’s divine design.

Let’s approach our roles in worship, prayer, and leadership within the church with humility and unity, recognizing the importance of modesty and good works.

Seek to understand the specific context and intent of Paul’s words regarding women’s roles in worship, and embrace the diversity of gifts and talents within the body of believers.

Engage in discussions with trusted friends or family to reflect on these key messages, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.