The Psalms have brought tremendous comfort and guidance to so many for so long. Join me in taking a fresh look at each Psalm. As you read through them, I urge you to reflect, pray, and apply these devotional bits of encouragement to your own life. Today, we study and reflect on Psalms 142, 143, and 144.
Reflection 1
Have you ever felt like you were in a deep, dark cave? Psalm 142 was written from a cave. The feeling expressed here are very real. The psalmist is desperate. Fear and anxiety are palatable. I think many can relate to these feelings of fear and desperation. I know of some who are facing extremely tough situations right now. You may find yourself feeling empty, facing a dead end, unsure of the path forward, or all alone. If that’s you, let me first say I’m sorry and I’m praying for you today. I’m praying for those facing tough times. I am praying for those who are feeling trapped, hopeless, and fearful. I cry out to God for you and with you. It may seem hopeless, but God is with you and will make a way. It may seem impossible, but our God is the God of possibilities and new beginnings. It may seem too hurtful, but our God is the healer of broken hearts and broken dreams. Trust Him. He is with you always, even in the caves of life.
“I cry aloud to the Lord; I lift up my voice to the Lord for mercy. I pour out before him my complaint; before him I tell my trouble. I cry to you, Lord; I say, “You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.” Listen to my cry, for I am in desperate need; rescue me from those who pursue me, for they are too strong for me. Set me free from my prison, that I may praise your name. Then the righteous will gather about me because of your goodness to me.” — Psalms 142:1-2, 5-7
Reflection 2
Do you need direction today? What hard decisions do you need to make? Where are you in desperate need of God’s guidance? Sometimes decision making can be hard and confusing. We need God’s guidance. We need His direction. Maybe you need to pray this Psalm today. “Show me the way to go… Teach me to do your will… Lead me on level ground.” Do you need guidance regarding finances, family issues, job, college, or faith? Ask God for clarity and trust that He will lift the fog. Believe that He has your best interest at heart. Read His Word. Seek godly counsel. He will make your paths straight and guide you. He loves you and cares about every detail of your life. Trust Him.
“Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God; may your good Spirit lead me on level ground.” — Psalms 143:8, 10
Reflection 3
Consider the two things David mentions here. Both are incredibly important. First, the Creator God of the universe cares about you. I know you know this, but just sit and soak in this truth for a minute. Why in the world would the eternal God care about me? This truth is absolutely amazing and humbling to think about. The Bible says you are the apple of His eye and the crowning achievement of His creation. He loves you and cares for you more than you will ever know. Second, life is short. Make a difference for God and for good. Live to impact, encourage, comfort, empathize, care, share with others in Jesus’ Name. Life is short. Make each day matter. Make today matter.
“Lord, what are human beings that you care for them, mere mortals that you think of them? They are like a breath; their days are like a fleeting shadow.” — Psalms 144:3-4