Prayers From the Bible Part 2Uzorak

David's prayer

Read Psalm 3

These days, we tend to swing between two extremes when dealing with our emotions: we either vent them without considering how it affects others, or we suppress them entirely. Both approaches can take a toll on our wellbeing and relationships. However, the psalms show us a different way – a way to express our genuine feelings before God and allow His wisdom to guide us.

In Psalm 3, we find David facing real difficulties as he flees his son Absalom’s attacks. He has made mistakes – lying, adultery, murder – and lost his authority. His very identity is under threat, partly due to his own actions. Despite his fears, David turns to God, declaring His trust in Him as the one who lifts his head high.

This declaration speaks volumes about God’s character. As CH Spurgeon wrote, ‘There is a lifting up in honour after shame, in health after sickness, in gladness after sorrow, in restoration after a fall, in victory after a temporary defeat; in all these respects the Lord is the lifter up of our head.’

We see David speak out his trust in God’s goodness and choose to stand in his God-given identity despite all that’s going on around him. Today, we can be thankful for these prayers recorded in scripture. They offer comfort and strength, showing us the heart posture of those who came before us and teaching us ways to pray that allow God space to continue His work in our lives.

Written by LUCY WEIL