Morning Psalm and Prayer

Are you in a storm of life? Are you wondering where God is as you face the storm? The psalmist had similar feelings -- and landed on an inspiring answer! Follow the Lord - His faithful character never changes. He is always leading His people - even if it's down a path that we would not have chosen.

There will come a day when God arises to rebuke the wicked unbelieving. On that same day He will save His people! And having established His throne in Zion, He will receive tribute from the kings of the earth... because He is the King of Kings!

On Christmas morning we take a break from Psalms to read from Luke's famous account of Jesus' birth, the angelic birth announcement, the angel choir and the visit of the shepherds. Be blessed by the Savior's birth today!

The Lord is the Judge ... there is coming a day of judgment. When? That's God's decision. He is giving time for everyone to turn to Him in repentance and faith. For today, God's name is near! His presence blesses His people!

Mockers and godless people are so brazen that they are willing to desecrate the sanctuary of God. The psalm is a prayer for God to arise and defend His people and the place of worship. There will be a day of justice and retribution. For now, we pray for the protection of God on your places of worship.

Have you ever fallen into comparing yourself with others? Have you ever envied people who are far from God yet prosperous? This psalm is challenging and convicting - and encouraging! It's time to enter into the presence of God and be blessed!

The nation is blessed when righteousness rules. God's people flourish when the national leaders honor God. Our Lord is King of the entire earth ... may His rule abound and His wonders be seen in every nation. We bless you today!

Our Lord is faithful throughout your life -- from birth through old age! As He is faithful to you in life, so you must remain faithful to praise and honor Him. Those of you in older years have a unique opportunity to pass along the faith to younger generations.

Your God is your savior, deliverer and friend! He is always attentive to your prayers for help and rescue. Today is a day to rejoice in God's salvation to proclaim, "God is Great!"

Psalm 69 - written seven centuries before Jesus - contains prophetic elements. See if you can hear them. Life can nearly sweep us away in the flood of multiplied stresses and problems - some which are out of our control and others of our own making - either way God's goodness is so great that He hears our prayers for help and rescue! He brings times of Favor to replace times of despair.

God is both powerful and loving, righteous and good. Escapes from death belong to God. Trust in Him! And celebrate with joy before Him. God is your Father - doubly so if you are fatherless. He is mindful of the widows. Bless God in His sanctuary!

Our God is Lord of all of the earth. He is Lord over every place and every people. Let His name be glorified everywhere! Let His name be praised today in your geography!

God has used His strength to bless His people. He has acted on our behalf in awe-inspiring ways. Contemplate His goodness and give thanks to Him. Make His praise glorious!

God has created heaven and earth -- and it all gives Him glory. He also created you and all of humanity. We too are called to give God praise and glory. Notice the wondrous creation and give glory to God.

Have you been pierced by sharp words? You are not alone! Words can cut and leave wounds. Left untreated they can fester. Take time today to allow the Holy Spirit to do some spiritual surgery to remove the venom. Surrender your hurts to Him - then offer praises to God!

Are you in a spiritually dry place? Draw near the oasis of God's love. His living water will refresh your spirit! When He does, be sure to lift up your praises to God. He loves to hear your voice.

We live in a busy and noisy world! It call all feel exhausting. Good news - there is rest in God! Allow your heart to experience the peace that comes in the presence of God. He loves you and loves when you draw near to Him.

Are you overwhelmed? Life can pile up until it's too much. The psalmist had just such an experience and found a place of stability - a rock - on which to stand. Be encouraged with this psalm and take your stand on the Rock!

Are you in a time when things aren't going your way? Have you been tempted to ask where God is at this time? The Psalmist had the same kind of season. Yet in the end, our hope is not in our own strategies but in the goodness and faithfulness of God!

We live among treacherous people and agendas. Many are far from God and live in mockery of God. How should you live in such a world? By trusting in God your shield! He is your refuge and stronghold. Sing praises to Him!

God's retribution will stark. I wonder if His retribution will be offensive even to those who ask "why doesn't God do something?" This psalm is stark. Be blessed by the Lord's reward for those made righteous through Jesus Christ ... and help others know the grace of God in the gospel.

God's faithful love is as high as the heavens! What's more - His love is flowing toward you today. Take time today to recognize God's grace and glory and sing praises to Him today! It will open your heart to JOY!

All of us face stress, conflicts and even adversaries. What do you do when you are afraid. Psalm 56 gives a solid formula when facing fearful circumstances! And what's even more -- God sees your tears! Be blessed by this psalm and pass it along to friend.

Conflict and stress rages .. in homes and hearts ... in the circumstances and in the city. Sometimes it feels like too much. Sometimes I'd like to just run away from it all. But our refuge is in God and so I cast my burdens on God!

God is your helper! He sustains your life! He will rescue you from every trouble! Praise His name! Be aware of His faithful presence today.