A Prayer for When God Seems Silent

Open Your Bible

Psalm 77:1-20

Reading the first part of this psalm took me back to when I went through the most prolonged and scariest health crisis I’d ever experienced. 

My prayers during this season had many different colors:

“God, I’ve been asking you to heal my body for years and years…but now, instead of healing me, I’m worse than ever! I really believed that you’d heal me; haven’t I trusted you, Lord? Why is this happening?” 

It felt like there was no answer.

“Father, did I do something wrong that I didn’t know about?” I’d go through an inventory of my possible sins that might be causing my suffering—“maybe if I get ‘right’ with God, He will make me better!” But no clear revelations there either.

Or I would for many nights go down the spiral of thoughts: “I can’t work; what am I going to do for the rest of my life? Will I be alone forever? Who would want to be with someone like me, always sick and miserable? Now that I can’t even be useful in society, will I even have friends?” There isn’t enough space to write out all the self-torturing thoughts that would only worsen my symptoms. 

Then when I got too tired to say or think much, all I could breathe out was, “Lord, save me. Lord, help me.”

And to Jesus, that was enough. 

During this period, His silence was (dare I say) maddening. The more I dug into Scripture to find the answers and solutions to my problems, the less I found. However, in my weakest moments, when I was vulnerable enough to finally say, “Just help me,” Jesus showed up with love and embrace so warm, deep and soothing. Although my body was still so inflamed as if it caught on fire, I sensed the most gentle and kind, yet grandiose and powerful Presence holding me and whispering, “I’m here. You’re mine.”

“What, Lord? Did you just say I’m yours? But I’m so pathetic!”

When I thought physical healing and getting back to “normal life” was what I needed the most, Jesus gave me what I really needed—to finally know that He saw me. And that I still matter even if, no, especially when I couldn’t produce anything, contribute anything, and looked and felt unworthy. Me? This holy and awesome God, who moves the earth and waters, would say this? Yes. 

Perhaps, when He’s silent, He’s inviting us right into where He is. Quiet ourselves to His loving presence. Then we will remember who He is. He indeed hears us when we cry out to Him. His answers may come in ways we didn’t expect, but only He knows what we need most.

Written by Minnie Lee

(121) Comments
[x]

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

121 thoughts on "A Prayer for When God Seems Silent"

  1. Ashley NEMETZ says:

    Powerful that we are loved even when we are not productive or “useful” in our eyes

  2. Kelly Moniz says:

    Thank you ❤️ for your inspiration!

  3. Maegan Saunders says:

    Thank You God for being close to me even when I feel far from You.

  4. Karen Maxon says:

    I appreciate this. I’ve been having heart problems for five years with no answers, it feels like God forgot me. I’ve been pressing in so hard to find my healing, But maybe just pressing in is all I need.

  5. Sandra Maldonado says:

    So beautiful your testimony. It’s amazing that sometimes we have to walk through hurt, pain, sickness amongst other things and the way that God walks us through is just the purest way of love.

  6. Vonda Hall says:

    I’m feeling all this tonight! Exactly what I needed to read!! ❤️

  7. Paula Bilder says:

    Amen

  8. Cindy Matute says:

    ♥️

  9. Jessica Goen says:

    ❤️

  10. Lily Hunter says:

    ❤️❤️

  11. Lily Hunter says:

    ❤️

  12. Lauren Pennington says:

    ❤️

  13. Sareen Li says:

    To think that God loves us most we when cannot even produce a thing.

  14. Samara Hernandez says:

    This has just become my favorite go to reminder.

  15. sylvannah rowe says:

    Amen! This was what I needed tonight! ❤️

  16. Carolynn Dishong says:

    ❤️

  17. Camille Hurt says:

    Amen

  18. faith thompkins says:

    ❤️

  19. Sarah Abraham says:

    It’s called Held by Abby Wedgeworth

  20. Sarah Abraham says:

    Hi Krystin,

    I had two miscarriages prior to having my healthy baby girl and I also felt alone and confused and searching for God in the darkest of moments… there is no easy way to go through loss and I had to find strength in knowing that there was a greater plan for me and my baby and they had been called home sooner than I’d like but God was preparing me to be a mother to a beautiful baby in the future. I found comfort in a devotional specifically written for miscarriages… I’ll search and see if I can find it and post it for you. You are not alone and I’m so so sorry that you’re going through this !

    Sarah

  21. Amanda Herrera says:

    Love this. God is there for us and He knows best.

  22. Krystin Beno says:

    I have been pregnant since early august. At my 7 week appt, baby was so healthy and perfect. At the end of week 9, I went to an elective US and was referred to the ER as baby’s heartbeat was gone. I spent the weekend praying for a miracle. Praying through psalms, the story of the widow’s son in 1 Kings, and Lazarus. At my appt Monday, I asked for one more US bc I didn’t want to count God out like the drs did, but baby’s heart was still not beating. We have scheduled a D&C, but we left and I told my husband, we have one more chance. God can still provide a miracle. As I get closer, I feel like God is not there. I know He listens, is good, and hears, I just struggle with why he didn’t answer my daily prayers for a healthy baby leading up to this point. I don’t doubt that God can still perform a miracle, but I also struggle with wondering if He will give the miracle. I feel like thinking this way will cause Him to choose not to give a miracle if I’m not following with brave, unwavering faith, but I also know that sometimes God’s will is not what we ask for. I am really struggling with how to view my situation regarding asking for a miracle and not sure if it’s going to happen. If anyone has advice for how to view this situation when asking and hoping for a miracle, I would greatly appreciate it. I would also like to ask for prayers for a miracle and for peace and comfort during this time.

  23. Lauren Pennington says:

    Needed a reminder of how important quiet time in the presence of the Lord is!!

  24. Lauren P says:

    This was beautiful and so relatable. I have been in a long season of discomfort. Amen ❤️

  25. Anna Bindon says:

    ❤️

  26. Anna Bindon says:

    2 In the day of my trouble I seek the Lord;
    in the night my hand is stretched out without wearying;
    my soul refuses to be comforted. – Psalms 77:2

  27. Lizl De Villiers says:

    Amen

  28. Ebony Lewis says:

    Jesus is saying I AM HERE and YOU ARE MINE ❤️

  29. Nora Juneman says:

    Amen

  30. Shelly Fletcher says:

    Minnie Lee, thank you for this piece, this testimony. A beautiful, clear picture of our Savior saving. ♥️

  31. Char Hight says:

    This is my story too. My valleys are where I experienced the greatest growth in my faith.

  32. Aila Rhea says:

    The way I am in so much awe for the word of God, for His being, brings me to tears. The way He is able to show up for all of us and to guide us through the toughest of times. Seeking Him out in moments of darkness and having to truly trust in His plan. It’s been so hard to navigate this season of heartbreak but it’s brought me back to the Lord, to remember that He has done great things, beyond my own comprehension and He has a great plan for me too. Having to surrender is never easy but night exists to show us the power of the day. I am sending all of you my love, my prayers – you all, through your faith, uplift me in a phase of my life where I don’t know where to look except for up to God.

  33. chiquieta Russell says:

    Amen

  34. Annie Simms says:

    The deepest connection I have ever felt with God is during times of intense fear and suffering. He showed up. This is beautiful.

  35. Letitia Scott says:

    Wow just wow. Amen

  36. Ruby Hunter says:

    ❤️

  37. Teri Specht says:

    Wow.

  38. Amanda Robertson says:

    It’s been a tough season for me these past 3 years. The amount of time I spent praying for reprieve, is insurmountable. But in going through these past few years, I notice that He shows up when I completely break down. This Prayer is exactly what I needed.

  39. rina senjobi says:

    I needed this today

  40. Amanda Schreiner says:

    ❤️

  41. Vanessa Lynch says:

    His wonders are mighty

  42. Amanda Braswell says:

    Praying for healing for all ❤️

  43. Mary Jeffrey says:

    This, like it did for so many of you, spoke to me deeply. I am a very new Christian and this s my first time here with SRT. I’m so blessed to be here!

  44. Andrea P says:

    Lifting you ALL in prayer. ❤️

  45. Marica Laing says:

    Reading this devotional brought me to tears. Because it was like reading an entry from my own diary. I’ve been dealing with IBS since 2016. Now, it has gotten so bad that I have proctitis as well. The IBS seems to have calmed down and instead I’m stuck with this new (and much worse, in my opinion) condition. I’ve been to several doctors. Some of them have done more harm than good. Sometimes it would appear as if God finally healed me. I was good for 3 weeks now and finally started to feel like a normal human again, only for it to return yesterday. I had to go on antidepressants because the weight of this is so heavy and the constant fear of the pain worsening drives me mad. I dealt with suicidal thoughts and even though I wanted to trust God for healing so bad, I struggled so much. Every time I think it gets better only for it to get worse I feel disappointed in God. For me, that’s almost worse than being angry at him. Why can’t he heal me instantly and permanently like he did countless others during his time on earth? I feel so alone in this, but reading all your comments made me realize that I’m not. I wish more Christians would talk about this, because feeling so isolated in your illness and pain is the worst. Praying for all of you dealing with your own chronic illness. And thank you for sharing your stories. It made me feel less alone.

  46. Marica Laing says:

    Thank you so much for sharing this Angela, because I’m having the same experience. Doctors don’t seem to know what to do with me anymore. I’ve also experienced the thought that, maybe, God wants me to depend on Him instead of worldly things to heal me. It’s very hard to do indeed. Praying for you.

  47. June Pimpo says:

    ❤️

  48. June Pimpo says:

    I identify with everything the author wrote about. Chronic illness stinks. I hope in the Lord and continue to trust. Make beauty from my brokenness Lord.

  49. Teresa Donley says:

    CATHERINE – my prayers are for you in this illness you are facing. I pray for God’s peace to wrap around you like a warm blanket and allow you to get rest and sleep. I’m also praying for your oncologist and the rest of the care team, that God will give them the wisdom to make the best treatment decisions. God bless you, sweet sister.

  50. Marya Kat says:

    This is just I needed to read..I got a bad lab yesterday. I have ulcerative colitis and am in remission but inflammation levels are high for some reason. Recent blood work and imaging have been fine, don’t know what it could be. Colonoscopy is over a month away. So I think I will be coming back to today! Praying for Catherine and all walking the chronic journey.

  51. Sarah Nelson says:

    I know of someone who is debilitated with a horrible season of insomnia. As a wife, mother, sister and friend… she is left feeling hopeless. With this, I’ve never known someone who loves the Lord more. After spending time with her yesterday afternoon and waking this morning I sat in silence, not really sure what to ask our Father for when it comes to her healing. So I sat in silence for a few minutes when the thought hit me, “Sarah, you are reading Psalms right now, there is direction and prayer there… in His Word!” Psalm 77:11 I will remember the works of the Lord. May the entire Psalm of 77 bring my sweet friend comfort and may we sit this afternoon and reflect on this verse and I pray that it will bring healing to her mind, body and spirit. His Word is Truth

  52. Shannon L says:

    Praying for you so deeply Catherine, sending so much love your way

  53. Claire B says:

    ♥️

  54. Kara Daniel says:

    Jesus, please be near to Catherine as she faces this illness. We know only YOU can provide the ultimate healing needed. We pray for her doctors, nurses, and all who are on her care team. We pray for peace of mind and rest. That those around her will provide encouragement and positivity when she is in need of of it. We pray that all of her needs are met so she can focus on healing. In your powerful name we pray, amen.

  55. Kara Daniel says:

    Jesus, please be near to Catherine as she faces this illness. We know only YOU can provide the ultimate healing needed. We pray for her doctors, nurses, and all who are on her care team. We pray for peace of mind and rest. That those around her will provide encouragement and positivity when she is in need of of it. We pray that all of her needs are met so she can focus onIn your powerful name we pray, amen.

  56. ashley [email protected] says:

    This is what I needed today. God is always faithful.

  57. HL says:

    The responses to these readings have been so uplifting. I am trying to go through all of them. Thank you for all the beautiful words that many of you have shared.

    I tried to get what I could from all of the requests:

    @RHONDA-praying that you feel better quickly and get some rest.
    @CEE GEE- so thankful that the kitties made it through their first night. Praying for your sons anxious heart and that they will continue to thrive.
    @HEIDI-prayers for the family that you all are friends with. That the children will continue to show interest and may the Lord use them to be a witness to their parents.
    @CATHERINE AND ANGELA-prayers for healing, peace and rest.
    May His love and peace surround you all as we end out our day.

  58. Laura Hobbs says:

    I am someone that likes feeling productive and accomplishing things. I love the peace this gives me, knowing that God loves me without my “works” that I tend to use to justify my worthiness. He loves me

  59. Cee Gee says:

    CATHERINE MCVEY – You will be in my prayers! As I settle my head on my pillow, I will be praying for peace in your heart so your body can get the rest it needs. Praying for you in the waiting and praying for wisdom for the oncologist. ❤

    RHONDA J – So sorry you are so sick! Praying you start feeling better real soon! ❤

    HEIDI – Praying in agreement for this child/family!

  60. Catherine McVey says:

    Dear She’s, could I please ask for your prayers? After a CT for a back injury revealed multiple lesions on my spine and ribs, I have just been diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma. I meet with the oncologist on Tuesday. To say this has rocked my world is an understatement. I have a very strong faith and have seen God work in my life in miraculous ways, but the nights are long and scary right now and I don’t know what to expect. I appreciate your prayers for healing and for peace through this process. I have debated about asking for prayers here but this devotion and scripture was just to close. Love to you all. Praying for all requests lifted up here.

  61. Minnie Lee says:

    Amen Heather – thank you for sharing your story about your sister. May our Father God continue to strengthen her and you in His love. God never holds back his lavish love for us.

  62. Minnie Lee says:

    Thank you Pam!

  63. Minnie Lee says:

    Dear Angela, I’m honored to join you in prayer over your body, mind and heart. And I praise our amazing Father for embracing you to sustain you and heal from within. I once taught at my church on the bleeding woman, for I too have held on to that story for a long time. Thank you for sharing your story here.

  64. Jennifer Anapol says:

    I love this devotional. Lately God has seemed more quiet than he has been in the past. Sometimes I miss the ways he used to speak to me and how close I felt to him. He has been telling me that he is still the same God, and he isn’t done with me.

  65. Suz Bathurst says:

    Just what I needed today as I prepare my testimony to share in a couple of weeks.

  66. Angela Van Dyke says:

    I was and still am dealing with health issues. I went to see many doctors and done many tests. They all came back normal, and doctors could not really pinpoint the reason. God was really silent and distant (how I felt) during my most painful time. I prayed and did many Bible studies to find a miracle and peace. I resonate with the woman in the New Testament who was subject to bleeding for 12 years without a cure. One evening, I was praying to God to find a doctor that can cure me. Instead, He told me that all of this happened so that I will not be cured by man but directly by God. Just like the woman. Since then, I changed the way I pray. Now I pray that I will want what God want; I will be obedient to His will; I will be filled with His Spirit. Now, I am still dealing with health issues. But, instead of being anxious to the point of thinking I am dying, I feel His peace. There are still times when I think my life is over and anxiety just wash over me. I am reminding myself that God is perfect, and He cannot make imperfect plans.

  67. Mercy says:

    Such a lamenting prayer of psalm from the depth of the soul. Many of us have walked this path together with God and He is silent. However we should not mistake His silence for His absence. He is there in the midst of it all, closely watching us. The unseen footprints of God are there in the deep waters of our anguish (Psalm 77:19 esv). When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him (Isaiah 59:19 KJV). His delay is not slacking but to reveal something. The oil comes through the crushing. When we believe He will come, we are counted righteous for our faith, with the reward of our hopes becoming true. Let our tears become our praise, that none is in vain.

    @RHONDA J: praying for a quick recovery. I usually make the comfort soup (chopped up ginger 1 inch piece, dice 1 white onions + 10 cloves of garlic, 2 chopped up potatoes, all simmer 30-45 mins, season to taste, blend all at the end).
    @HEIDI: prayers for your friends’ family to come to the knowledge of Truth. Praise God that you brought their child to church, a seed planted when young into the child’s mind, child-like faith is the foundation.
    @KRIS: for God’s abundant provision, and strengthening all areas of need, healing from marriage betrayal.
    @HEATHER HICKEY: teared up at your love for your dear sister.
    @EMILY: praying for fruitfulness of the womb, the reward to come.
    @ALEIDA: deliverance for Victor from addiction, depression and any other snares.

    Ladies, may I ask for prayers for my aunt’s husband? I asked before. Current update, he is in stage 4 of colorectal cancer, he got a stroke recently from the chemotherapy aftermath. The cancer has spread out. They are non-believers, and have closed off communications with family members about this topic. Please pray for their salvation, healing miracle and a strong mind to go through. It is bleak. Thank you so much for your prayers on their behalf.

    Be blessed dear sisters.

  68. Allison Bentley says:

    Ryan Ellis – Everything is Gonna be Alright beautiful song that captures todays Psalm

  69. Heidi says:

    So here’s an unexpected prayer request for whomever would like to tackle it! ;)

    We have a close family that our kids are friends and we parents get along great… we have taken multiple family vacations together and weekend trips and couple’s trips… However, they are VERY not followers of Jesus and in fact the dad is a bit “hurt” by the church and is ACTIVELY not involved (as in – kind of against, though he “allows” it for us..). Mom is Hindu and doesn’t like the idea of “One God”. Also, culturally, she would not give up her family’s religion as it would be so incredibly insulting. Long story short – they let their middle schooler go to church with ours last Sunday and while there she heard about a camp they are all about to go on for a weekend. She really wants to go so her mom is asking logistical questions and thinking of letting her go. Ryan and I are shocked they are allowing it, but in their mind it’s more “it’s good to meet new people and it’ll be a fun weekend away”. WE KNOW that it opens a door for God to step further into her heart personally and into their family… We already told the middle school director that if they choose to go we want to anonymously pay for her registration. They can easily afford it, but not having the same faith value, they therefore do not have the same financial value in sending her and it is quite pricey. We just don’t want there to be any kind of roadblock where we can help it.
    SO- YA’LL PRAY. Pray that if this really is what He wants for her and her story, that He will work out whatever is needed for her to get to camp. And if He sees it would possibly be a hindrance, that He will put all the roadblocks He wants to and protect her from it. We know He is sovereign and there is no space for worry. He’ll use the methods He sees right and good and we will trust that :)

    Thank you friends!!! :) :) :)

  70. Pam Williams says:

    May I suggest the book Every Bitter Thing is Sweet by Sarah Hagerty. She has walked that same path.

  71. Teresa Donley says:

    I think the devil is working overtime today! I prayed for each request as I came to it, and kept a running list of your names and requests. Then, it disappeared! If that wasn’t enough, then I lost all of the comments on this page! I finally had to power off my iPad and reboot it. Comments are back. I am praying for each of your requests.
    I am loving this study! I truly needed today’s psalm and reflection. I’ve struggled for quite some time, thinking I can’t feel Gods presence with me. I’m thankful that I can still say that even though I don’t feel Him, I know in my heart that He is there.

  72. Tia Watkins says:

    What can i say…. #whew

  73. Teresa Donley says:

    Thank you for your prayers and for sharing the song. It is one of my favorites

  74. Brandy Deruso says:

    Hallelujah what a word!

  75. Paige Stakey says:

    Before I found God I had one of the scariest health crisis. Reading this psalm and her prayer brought back so many emotions. Thank you!

  76. Rhonda J. says:

    GM She’s!
    I am still sick, not sure what is wrong, just that I feel miserable! But I was able to read today and go through all the wonderful comments and insights, and prayer requests! Thank you @Theresa for always thinking of me and praying for my pain, it truly is like a big hug, and much needed today. This Psalm is so good and the devotional by Minnie because I have been there many times, as most have. We want our situations and afflictions resolved immediately, I mean who does enjoy the struggle? As I was reading and thinking about this a song came on the radio by Hope Darst “Never Walk Alone.” I had never heard it and looked it up and the words are so spot on with this reading. Hope you all have a good day, and prayers please that I feel better from whatever bug (more like a huge pack of Cicadas!) this is.

    Lyrics:
    If I knew then what I know now
    I wouldn’t have doubted You
    I wish I could tell my younger self
    Just to have faith
    There’s so many mountains
    You have moved
    Valleys You have led me through
    And it’s only by Your grace
    I’m standing here today

    I’m a witness to Your faithfulness
    In every storm, In every step
    Looking back
    Never once did You let me go
    And no matter what the future holds
    You’ll work it for my good I know
    You are faithful
    And I never walk alone

    My life is full of miracles
    The stories that I could tell
    All that You’ve healed
    All that You’ve done, I can’t forget
    So even if my life doesn’t go
    The way I plan or how I hope
    Our history has shown
    You’ve never failed me yet

    I’m a witness to Your faithfulness
    In every storm, In every step
    Looking back
    Never once did You let me go
    And no matter what the future holds
    You’ll work it for my good I know
    You are faithful
    And I never walk alone
    Oh, I never walk alone

  77. Teresa Donley says:

    ALEIDA- I can’t imagine what you are going through with Victor and, hopefully, his quest to break the addiction. I’m praying for you – and him – right now. Since it seems he is wandering in finding the right program for him, I wondered if you are familiar with Celebrate Recovery? It is a world-wide Christ-Centered recovery program. I just thought you might want to check it out…www.celebrate recovery.com

  78. Cee Gee says:

    I forgot to mention that my son asked me to tell y’all how much he appreciates your prayers for the kitties! And for him as he has been quite anxious for them.

  79. Allison Bentley says:

    Prayers for you @Emily as you walk through your infertility journey- continue to seek Gods provision and share your testimony with others so that good will come whether or not a baby does. You are not insufficient you are perfectly made!!!

  80. Allison Bentley says:

    Even in the silence God is there holding me, patting my head saying “there there my child-everything is going to be alright”. As my relationship with God has grown more intimate I know with my entire being He’s working it out for His glory EVERY time we hear silence. Father God, thank you for being a God of mercy, a God of grace and a God of wonder!!!!

  81. Laura says:

    So many great comments today. Thank you ladies. KRIS, I also have walked through the valley of betrayal when my husband confessed an affair to me seven years ago. It dropped me into a deep valley that I never saw coming. I literally clung to the Lord to get me through. Because of the circumstances, I lost a lot of my community and at the same time, my youngest daughter was going through a severe rebellion and getting into trouble with the law. Things didn’t get better for a long time. We are still married, praise the Lord, but things didn’t get better for a long time. So long. I felt like I was in the pit for a long time. But…I felt God so close to me, so present, like I never have felt Him before. It was supernatural. There is no other way to describe it. I clung to Psalm 139. I memorized it. I needed to feel that God knew me. That He saw me. I had people praying for me, which was such a comfort. Because I truly didn’t know how to pray. I didn’t know even what I wanted. Did I want to stay married or not? I didn’t get answers…did I mention it took a LONG TIME for things to get better? But even though things weren’t really getting resolved at the pace I was hoping for, God was not silent to me. Because I felt Him. I knew I could cling to Him. He was the only thing keeping me going. It was a terrible time and a beautiful time. There is no other way to describe it. I pray the same for you. That you will feel His presence, even if things feel silent. And that you can cling to the truth that is His Word. He sees you. He knows you.

  82. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    Thank you @Tami C & @Heather Hickey for sharing your stories. It’s when we hear the stories of others – how God uses those situations for His glory and our good – that are so encouraging and give us the hope and strength in our own times of need. Praise God for His working and intervening in the lives of your loved ones!

    @Kristine Loughnam – continued prayers for your plantar fasciitis. I too suffered with it for a long time. I had a cortisone shot in my foot about 3 years ago and it hasn’t bothered me since!
    @Jenny Somers – praying for Mary Felicity, and for you and your husband to have the love, support, and wisdom needed.
    @Emily, who is walking through fertility – my heart breaks for you, I will be remembering you in prayer and asking God to grant you your desire.
    @Sarah Ritchie – praying for relief from your plantar fasciitis.
    @Cheryl Blow – praying God gives strength as you battle your depression and fibromyalgia.
    @Kris – praying that God will provide all your needs for finances, a newer more reliable car, home maintenance and that you continue to look to Him for all of your immediate and future needs.

  83. Elaine Morgan says:

    ❤️❤️❤️

  84. Kris says:

    So, this Psalm and the words of Minnie Lee so resonate with me. No, I’m not sick, but I’m alone. I was married for 22 years when I found out my husband had been having multiple affairs. My life does not look like it was supposed to at my age. I am alone. I have to maintain a home by myself. I don’t have the finances to hire things out, so I have to do it all. The inside and the outside. And my car is old, has many miles on it. Sometimes its scary to think that some day soon I will have to replace it. I have cried out to God so many times over the past years, and even though He’s been faithful month by month, I still feel alone and scared about the future. This is when I have to dig in to God’s word and realize He is my Father, my Provider, my Counselor, my Companion. But the feelings of inadequacy still haunt me. And that’s why I love this Psalm. It doesn’t deny the real feelings, but also recognizes God’s faithfulness. We can’t pretend we don’t have feeling that don’t line up with what we think we should have. We should trust God, we should be happy, we should be confident in His provision… but at times we are still human and still have those feelings. And it’s ok. This Psalm proves it. David had faith and doubts right along side of each other. Sometimes negative and positive can coexist in the same place. And I believe God understands that. When Jesus was praying in the garden, He experienced both negative and positive at the same time. He prayed to be spared but He also prayed that the Father’s will be done. So, I take heart, and find time to rest in His presence which always revives my faith.

  85. Sharon, Jersey Girl says:

    As I read through this Psalm, I couldn’t help but think of my prayers these past months for my sister – concerning her housing needs. It’s as if this was written off of my prayers! These are some of the very same questions I asked that Asaph asks in Psalm 77:7-8. At times it seems like God isn’t listening, that He doesn’t hear our cry, that He will not show His favor. Why does it seem that way? Because as Minnie Lee points out, “His answers may come in ways we didn’t expect, but only He knows what we need most.” And there is my answer! Have I doubted? Do I think God doesn’t hear, that He doesn’t answer that He’s not capable? Then as the psalmist says, “I will remember the deeds of the Lord, I will remember your miracles of long ago, I will meditate on all your works..” (Psalm 77:10-12) Once I stop – remember and meditate, I then have the right perspective – God’s perspective! God is holy, He is great, and He STILL performs miracles! (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8) Hallelujah, praise His name!

    Happy Wednesday my SRT sisters – may God minister to your every need today!

  86. Cheryl Blow says:

    Praying for all the requests. This Psalm has been such a help to me. Crying out to God and remembering what He has done in the past has helped me battle depression that can be such a big part of fibromyalgia. God is faithful. He sees us, hears us, and cares for us! He has never let me down even in my darkest days!

  87. Mari V says:

    Good morning sweet She’s and happy mid week from Sunny and lately VERY Hot California! Yep we’ve been in the low 100s. But most of you here know, I like the heat. I’m kind of weird like that. I remember those nights, many nights, crying out to God with my whole heart. Though, I never felt abandoned or that He did not hear me, I did ask “when” would this be over. I had often heard that He would never give us anything we can’t handle, but recently, I heard, this is not necessarily true, but it’s during those times when we can’t handle our situation, He is walking us through it and giving us the strength to endure. HE becomes our strength. And that is why Philippians 4:13 became my life first, as “I can do all things through Christ, who gives me strength.” I am forever grateful to my God, my Jesus, that I am here today, and I stand with my head up only because of Jesus. I also know that are suffering does not go “unused“ our experiences can help others and encourage them to keep moving forward, keep looking to Jesus, because He is our everything!

  88. Cee Gee says:

    FIRST- I thought of this song immediately after reading and then I read KRISTINE LOUGHMAN’S and SEARCHING’S comments and knew I needed to share it. We sing it often at church and just sang it last Sunday:

    “Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
    We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
    Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
    We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
    Our God, You reign forever
    Our hope, our Strong Deliverer
    You are the everlasting God
    The everlasting God
    You do not faint
    You won’t grow weary
    Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
    We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
    Strength will rise as we wait upon the Lord
    We will wait upon the Lord, we will wait upon the Lord
    Our God, You reign forever
    Our hope, our Strong Deliverer
    You are the everlasting God
    The everlasting God
    You do not faint
    You won’t grow weary
    You’re the defender of the weak
    You comfort those in need
    You lift us up on the wings
    Like eagles
    Our God, You reign forever
    Our hope, our Strong Deliverer
    ‘Cause You are, You are the everlasting God
    The everlasting God
    You do not faint
    You won’t grow weary
    You’re the defender of the weak
    You comfort those in need
    You lift us up on the wings
    Like eagles
    From everlasting to everlasting
    God, You are everlasting”
    Songwriters: Brenton Brown, Ken Riley. For non-commercial use only.

    Outstanding devo! I was reminded to counter the negative thoughts with the promises in God’s Word. ie. Psalm 136 – “…His love endures forever…” and

    Psalm 116:5 – “The Lord is gracious and righteous; our God is compassionate.” There are so many from which to choose!

    Thank you, ladies, for sharing your heart stories, and THANK YOU to all who are praying for our little kittens. My son has been quite anxious for them, but he said last night he had to leave them in mama’s paws and God’s hands.

    ❤ – HL, TERESA DONLEY, MERCY, and SEARCHING.

    Praying for all requests! LYNNE FROM AL – Any update on Gaynell?

  89. Linnea Hart says:

    Thank you for sharing your story and beautiful thoughts

  90. Jaclyn says:

    Heather – thank you for sharing that testimony! I will be praying for your family — may God be glorified through your sister’s life.

  91. Heidi says:

    HEATHER HICKEY – thank you for sharing… the scenario you bring up has always been a struggle for me as well. For me, I have to take the emotional out of it to make any sense of it and it boils down to what you’ve said – there is purpose behind it and the testimony it brings is that purpose. It’s no less painful a loss, but AT THE VERY LEAST the loss is not in vain. It sobers my mind into remembering the reason we are all here is to point the world back to Him and if something does that, then we’ve lived “the Good life”. However, the emotion always floods back and I struggle once more. Praying that His heart continues to comfort, guide, and enlighten all of you as you walk through this unchosen road. I’m so grateful for the beauty that has already come from it for you!!! ❤️

  92. Annie says:

    @Tami C and @Heather Hickey thank you for sharing your family’s testimonies. Praying for both of your families and for continued healing. Such a wonderful reminder that God’s plan is so much higher than ours.

    This psalm reminds me that God is with me even in the darkest moments when I don’t hear anything from Him. He is there and He is listening.

  93. Sarah Ritchie says:

    Prayers right back at you Kristine. I am a teacher and have had plantar fasciitis, it’s awful! Blessings to you.

  94. Sarah Ritchie says:

    I am praying for her this morning. And you!

  95. Tami C says:

    Psalm 77:11 is my life verse. “I will remember the deeds of the Lord, yes I will remember your miracles of long ago.” Shortly after COVID hit, my 48 year old brother was diagnosed w stage 4 stomach cancer and the prognosis was NOT good. He is divorced and our mom is no longer with us so it was up to me to help him
    navigate doctors/treatment plans all during a time when you couldn’t see doctors in person. I remember we had a virtual visit scheduled for final prognosis and treatment plan. I was so anxious about this appointment, wondering how my brother would take the news. The day before as I was waking up, I had the thought “psalm 77:11” but went about my day. Later that night, again, “psalm 77:11”. Now God had my attention! I pulled out my
    Bible and read the verse. It was like he was telling me, “I got this. Remember all the miracles I have already done in your life and in the lives of those you love”. My anxiousness turned to praise! My fears to instant relief. I had never heard this Psalm before so I know this was the Lord’s sweet reminder to me that He was with us and that we need not fear. BTW 3 years later my brother is doing great! On maintenance chemo and doc told him he would release him from treatment at 5 year mark!! And he now knows the Lord! Amen!

  96. Jeanie Mclellan says:

    Amen

  97. Heather Hickey says:

    This touched Me so much today. In August of last year my Sister was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme(brain cancer) at the age of 40. It is one of the most aggressive forms of Brain cancer and most patients are given 12-18 months to love after diagnosis. My sister has 3 beautiful children and a husband. I cried for days, “Why Her?, Why not Me?” I have done more wrong in my life than she has, She is an amazing person and didn’t deserve it. I was angry at first with God, why Her? I sat on the floor of my shop and cried alone for hours asking “Why Her?” Why Her? Was answered. You see, My sister has so much Faith and Her Love for God is so big. God is using Her as a testimony to Him. Sometimes our deepest scariest struggles are answered in ways We never would have imagined. My Sister brought us back to church, We finally found a church We Love and feel at Home. Two of my children have accepted Jesus and my third just did last week. The first two pleaded to be baptized and my third will be soon. My son invited his buddies to church, they have been saved as well and baptized after youth camp! It’s been an amazing to watch How God has been working. So now I don’t ask why Her. Her testimony of the answer to that. She has been the 1 year mark. She has another small tumor growing but they are going to remove it in the next coming weeks. God is a Miracle Worker and I believe My sister has quite a bit of time left in this wicked world to keep leading others to Jesus.

  98. Michelle Patire says:

    Great comments, today. It’s so good to see all these familiar “faces” again in the comment section! I saw the cover of this study and thought, “What a beautiful cover! I’d buy this physical copy if I could!” Apparently, I am not the only one wooed by it’s beauty ;) and who doesn’t love the Psalms??

    I just want to say thank you again for all who have been praying for me. Reading @Tina’s comment, I can relate to her friend in some ways…Of feeling the prayers of others carry me. I have felt the presence of the Lord of our prayers. There’s a beauty sometimes, that shows up, when people are praying for you. A lightness. A gentle reminder that God loves us and is with us, even though the problem isn’t solved.

    I am grateful for all of you. May the Lord bless you all and be with you, when no one else is around. Or perhaps, in the midst of a difficult interaction with someone you care for. May we see His care for us, even when our situation screams the exact opposite. I know I preach to myself. We walk by faith and not sight. Grace and peace!

  99. Emily says:

    I’ve been walking through infertility now for 2 years. This Psalm echoes the many times my heart has cried out in frustration, wondering if God wasn’t listening, or was punishing me, or had forgotten about me. Looking around at the many young women in my life getting pregnant these past 2 years with ease while I prayed and longed in silence.

    But I love how the Psalmist affirms that he knows God hears, and that while he feels God to be silent or forgetful, he knows and remembers God to be faithful. I cling to that while my emotions rage wildly, that no matter what I feel, I KNOW God to be good. I know Him to be faithful and true.

    And I relate to this devotional so much. The Lord hasn’t given me the desires of my heart. I have not been able to conceive and I continue to deal with the health issues preventing me with no end in sight. But never has the Lord spoken so directly to me in any other season. In the times I felt most vulnerable, most surrendered, He has directly told me from the mouths of others that I am not forgotten, He is with me in the waiting, and that He is still using me in my great weakness for His glory (and I have a couple amazing stories attached to these, praise the Lord for His kindness!!). I am so thankful for the Psalms and a God who, in all His wisdom and goodness, allowed these outpourings of emotions to be included in His Word as a guide for His children in how to pray and grapple with the same emotions. He sympathizes with our weakness and knows our frame- Praise be to God.

  100. Jennifer Mulkey says:

    Praying for you, Jenny.

  101. ERB says:

    Psalm 77:11-14  I will remember the Lord’s works;
    yes, I will remember Your ancient wonders.
    12 I will reflect on all You have done
    and meditate on Your actions.
    13 God, Your way is holy.
    What god is great like God?
    14 You are the God who works wonders;
    You revealed Your strength among the peoples.
    **Let these verses be my daily/hourly prayer!!! Thank You God for Your faithfulness and for always ALWAYS meeting us where we are at and bringing us up to a higher holier place and way of existence!! SO Grateful and Thankful!!
    Psalm 77:19 Your way went through the sea
    and Your path through the vast water,
    but Your footprints were unseen.
    **I absolutely LOVE this verse!!! There’s SO much in it!!! I especially love “His footprints were unseen”. Makes me realize that even though I can’t always see or hear Him, God is ALWAYS present!!! So comforting!! And it also makes me want to seek Him out in places I normally wouldn’t. Thank You God!!

  102. Jenny Somers says:

    I feel this so deeply – seeking the Lord and feeling like he has stepped away or is not answering – with a situation with my 6 year old daughter. Something is going on with her and today she will serve an in school suspension for being violent towards a friend yesterday. My heart breaks because I know that she must be feeling so mixed up and anxious to be acting in this way. Please pray for my sweet Mary Felicity, and pray that my husband and I would be able to support her well. I have been asking the Lord for guidance but continue to feel helpless. Thank you She’s.

  103. Theresa says:

    I took a couple things away from this Psalm. First, when we feel like God is distant and silent, we reflect on all the things he has done before. The same God who was with us then is with us now, even when we don’t feel it. And the same God who was faithful in the past, will be faithful in the present and future. Reflecting on this can bring my attention out of what I call my “worry spiral” and back onto the nature of God.

    I also appreciated the references to worry at night in this psalm. I’m by nature an anxious person and night is a time when I can find myself giving into my “worry spiral”. I’ve struggled with this as long as I can remember. The last few months, I’ve been really trying not to let myself get too far down the spiral. I tell myself that I’m not solving any problems in the middle of the night and I meditate on Psalm 23 and the images of God as my care-taker.

    HEIDI- praying for Kin and thankful for the good drop off. My son will be starting kindergarten in a few weeks and he’s a little nervous too!

    RHONDA J- continuing to pray for healing for you

  104. Nicole Windhagen says:

    Something I needed to read and will be passing on to some people close to me. We are going through the thick of it currently and all I’m doing is praying, so this was encouraging. The Lord is always there even when we don’t feel Him.

  105. Taylor says:

    Such a good Scripture, devotion, and comments today! When I feel stuck in the waiting, I can reflect on God’s faithfulness in my life and throughout history and know He is working for my good and for His glory which is exactly where I want to be.

    Lifting up all the prayer requests <3

  106. Searching says:

    There are some prayers I’ve prayed for years, especially for unbelieving family and friends. Psalm 77, especially vs 10-12, remind me to think on all that He HAS done and not solely focus on my ongoing prayers. He hears each prayer, and will answer in His wisdom & timing. I bought a sign a few years ago that stays up – In our waiting, God is working.
    10 And I said, “This is my anguish;
    But I will remember the years of the right hand of the Most High.”
    11 I will remember the works of the Lord;
    Surely I will remember Your wonders of old.
    12 I will also meditate on all Your work,
    And talk of Your deeds. (NKJV)

    TINA ❤️ all of your words are always welcome – love you!

    So much wisdom in the comments – and we are only 3 days into this study!
    These especially got my attention – ❤️
    ALEXIS PADILLO – preparing our hearts & minds daily
    WESLEY DEDMAN – He is even in the mundane
    TERESA DONLEY – praise vs petition, my attention is needed on this
    TIA WATKINS – self centered prayer, your words grabbed me. Printing and personalizing for my own weaknesses. Thank you.

    ALEIDA – praying for Victor’s acceptance of Christ and his healing, that he will one day have a testimony of the Lord’s amazing work in his life.
    AG – congrats on the babysitting
    SUZ BATHURST – Ahhhh … thinking about the New Zealand frosty mornings you mentioned, as we face another hot day in the southern U.S.
    MIRIAM – will be looking up The Riot & The Dance – thanks for mentioning it
    HEIDI – praise for great drop off, and praying for more!
    CEE GEE – hope those kittens are doing well, and thanks so much for your research & sharing on the hyraxes!
    GRAMSIESUE – homeschooling grandchildren, awesome!
    KIMBERLEY Z ❤️
    MARI V – early morning quiet time, the best!

  107. Karen Elizabeth says:

    I appreciate the brutal honesty and relatability of this psalm. Vs 4, “You keep my eyelids from closing; I am so troubled that I cannot speak.” The references about night are so true. I generally sleep well, but sometimes I lay awake for hours when stress or anxiety creep in. Pondering and agonizing about problems that I cannot solve by staying awake worrying. Somehow, things that are troubling but manageable during the day, become overwhelming in the night. I love how Asaph gives a model of how to handle these moments by recalling God’s faithfulness in the past. Next time I am awake worrying, I will try to remember this psalm and focus on God’s faithfulness to me throughout my life.

  108. Courtney Barnard says:

    Thank you for you love, Jesus.

  109. Aimee D-R says:

    So hard to hear but needed. Lord Jesus help me, help those that cry out to You. All we need is You. Amen

  110. Kate K says:

    Even with all the grief in the beginning of this Psalm, the first verse has hope: he will hear me.

  111. Kristine Loughman says:

    “Let me remember my song in the night…” There were a couple times the author referenced the nighttime. We were admonished to hold fast, not grow weary, to remember our sing during this time of darkness. Sometimes the night seems endless. The mountain seems insurmountable. The finish line never gets closer. My tendency is to fall into these “depths of despair” where nothing will ever be good and right again, woe is me. But our author encourages us to remember- remember our song, remember whose child we are. Lord, help me remember today that You are with me. Though my arms grow weary I will still reach for you. When the darkness presses down, let your face shine upon me.
    Ladies, I’m feeling cautiously optimistic as my plantar fasciitis has seems better-ish these last two days. Choosing to be relentlessly grateful for the good moments instead of bemoaning the bad days, even if this recovery seems to be one step forward, one step back. Prayers for all the teachers on here working so hard daily to build that safe, loving classroom community and for all our brave students. Prayers for the entire island of Maui – that a light will come out of this darkness. Happy Wednesday She’s! So grateful to gather with you here!

  112. Laura Mayer says:

    I really like pointing out that when we become silent, then we can hear God speak and know His presence.

  113. Tina says:

    I have highlighted verse 11-12

    I will remember your great deeds, Lord; I will recall the wonders you did in the past. I will think about all that you have done; I will meditate on all your mighty acts.

    I think my thinking there in highlighting, was( and still is) that if He has said it, if He has done it before… then, no trouble, strife, hurt, “I can’t understand this season..” situation of mine, will have His hand over it. His love over me. His protection as the situation is navigated.

    I do not say..

    BUT GOD, because its something to say, I say it from my heart, knowing, wholeheartedly, that I have a Father in heaven who watches over me and mine. A Father in heaven who hears and will work whatever the pain-filled journey or trouble, He is right there with me, quietly waiting for me to open my heart to the possibilities that He/ God sees and knows are the better options for me..

    BUT GOD..

    AMEN.

    I am away with a friend for a couple of days, just yesterday, we spoke of this.. in a way..
    She had heart surgery, last year, and she was telling me how scared she was as the day approached. Her words..”..of course it was successful, great surgeons, but I guess I ought to say God had a hand in it and that the prsys of other carried me through..” This friend challenges me.. often, but here’s the thing.. my response, stopped her in her tracks.. I said that in her weakness, ie, (scare), the prayers of others were able to reach God, because she was not fighting it, and therefore GOD was able to be present to give her the peace and loving arms around her, whilst the surgeons had God’s hand over theirs..

    We are sometimes, our own worst enemy!

    Prayers wrapped in love and hugs to all She’s, old and new..❤️

    Sorry for the length of response today..❤️

  114. Mary Ann Graves says:

    Amen

  115. Erica Chiarelli says:

    Thank You God for giving us what we need and not what we want…what is best! Only You know! And thank You for always hearing me, being there for me, loving me!

  116. Kelly (NEO) says:

    Totally agree Minnie Lee, “Perhaps, when He’s silent, He’s inviting us right into where He is. Quiet ourselves to His loving presence.”

    His silence does not indicate lack of presence or loving care. Thank You, Lord for Your faithfulness.

  117. Teresa Streit says:

    We complicate our lives. We have to learn to ask for help. Just ask for help. Sure. Search yourself. Take inventory of your heart and actions, but put your petitions confidently before the Lord. You are loved.

  118. Becky Berube says:

    This is one of the most personal and meaningful SRT studies I have done in the past 3 years. Thank you SRT team!

  119. Ana Gonzalez says:

    Amen

  120. Ana Gonzalez says:

    Q

  121. Aleida says:

    Happy Weds my sweet Shes. Wow Asaph wrote this Psalm and gave me the words I could not utter on my own. I’ve been there, and I’m in the thick of it now with my son’s addiction and mental crisis. I’ve cried out to Him numerous times and in my prayer and fasting He has revealed to ME things in my heart (unconfessed sin) that I’ve had to gravel with and ask to be forgiven. This was all the while I was praying for my son’s healing. What a revelation to my soul! Yet my son is still struggling. Just today he started again another new program. Please pray that he’ll stick to this one and not jump ship anymore. That this time around he’ll get to recovery and stable enough to hold down a job. He’s in a huge amount of debt by now. That we’re able to afford all these treatment programs. And most important, that someone around him would share the Gospel with him and he would surrender his life to Christ.

    I also love how Asaph starting in verse 11 remembers how merciful the Lord was to him in the past. He is truly a God of miracles and wonders (vs 14). Oh how I can thank the Lord for His faithfulness to me! Although it’s been such a trying time and just feels like there’s no end in sight, I have to remember how faithful and merciful and gracious He is and has been, as He continues to work behind the scenes. He is for us and not against us. Ladies let us all remember that especially during times of trouble❤️