Silence can be a wonderful thing. Just ask any librarian, schoolteacher, or parent of young children. As the saying goes, silence is golden.
Yet silence can also be deafening—sometimes painfully so. During trials, have you ever felt as if God isn’t listening to your cries for help? Or worse, like He’s listening but doesn’t care? David felt this, too, when he wrote the searing words of Psalm 22.
My God, my God, why have you abandoned me? Why are you so far from my deliverance and from my words of groaning? My God, I cry by day, but you do not answer, by night, yet I have no rest.
—Psalm 22:1–2
We don’t know what prompted David to write this brutally honest psalm, but it’s clear he was under attack (vv.12–13) by those with no remorse (v.18). He felt abandoned (v.1), despised (v.6), and mocked for his faith (vv.7–8). Under great duress, he wasn’t sure where relief would come from (v.11). His situation had plunged him into extreme weariness on all levels of his being (vv.14–15).
If David had stayed in that state, wallowing in excruciating circumstances, who knows what might have happened. Trials can feel like black holes where the light of hope seems absent. Indeed, if we focus exclusively on the painful circumstances in our lives, God will feel far off. We, like David, will wonder if He has abandoned us, preferring to lounge in the luxuries of heaven, oblivious to earthly cares, rather than sully His divine fingers in the dirt of human chaos. But this attitude greatly misconstrues the “silence” of God.
In fact, God is not silent. He is always working sovereignly for His glory and the good of His children. Sometimes we perceive it. Often we don’t. But our perception is not God’s reality. Rather, God’s reality—His unchanging presence and character—should be our perception, and even more, our hope!
God’s past faithfulness should inform our present state of mind. Amid his severe trials, David remembered: “Our ancestors trusted in you; they trusted, and you rescued them. They cried to you and were set free; they trusted in you and were not disgraced” (vv.4–5).
Once David remembered, he rejoiced: “I will give praise in the great assembly because of you” (v.25).
On the cross, Jesus Himself reiterated David’s words in Psalm 22:1–2, as He absorbed the full wrath of God against our sins (Matthew 27:46). Yet He also put His hope in God. “Father,” He cried, “into your hands I entrust my spirit” (Luke 23:46). God saved David, and He vindicated His Son.
God has not abandoned you. He is not silent or far off. He is, in fact, very near (Philippians 4:5), dwelling in the hearts of His beloved children. When you cry out, He listens.
So in the silence, remember—and rejoice in God’s salvation.
Written by Josh Cooley
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153 thoughts on "Psalms 19–22"
Always remember that God will always hear your cry out to Him. It’s important to have faith in God because faith without works is dead.
Amen!
❤️✝️ Amen
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Silence can be incredibly painful at times and yet what God uses most to prune, purify, and refine us!
Our perception is not God’s reality. ❤️
Does anyone know how to find the musical version of Psalm 22 that Dr. Grant mentioned?
God is always there!
Love the reminder throught these psalms and writings ❤️
So much emotion and up and down expressed in these passages today. David is feeling all the feelings and his cries and praises are ao relatable – I have been there. A couple points really stand out from the devotional….”But our perception is not God’s reality” and “God’s past faithfulness should inform our present state of mind.” Both of these reel my thoughts back into line. God is Sovereign. He is in control and He rules and reigns above all and I need to be rightly focused on His heart for me. Goodness that is SO hard, when I think I know what is rhe best answer or outcome for me. And, in making it a practice of praising God and recounting His faithfulness it should keep my heart and mind on the right track and shift my focus. I love Psalm 19:14, May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. I don’t want to go down the path of discouragement, frustration, worry and questioning. I want to have a heart of praise and hold fast to my Rock abd Redeemer. Psalm 21:13 is a great verse too, Be exalted O Lord, in your strength we will sing and praise your name. What a great reminder that we dont muster the praise on our own – its in HIS strength. Our great Lord is the One who gives us the strength to keep our hearts rightly focused, to fully trust in Him, to face what we perceive as silence and lift our praise. Thank you Lord that you are always near❤️
Psalm 19:4 “…In the heavens he has pitched a tent for the sun.”
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Beautiful, isn’t it?
Powerful reminder! Lord thanks Uou for always being near. Holy Spirit prompt me to always know that. In Jesus name, Amen
Thankful that God is always near, even when we may feel like He is not. This devotional study came at just the right time for me, giving me hope in my suffering – thank you Jesus!
I chose Psalm 22:24 today because it comforts me. It reminds me that God doesn’t turn away from suffering and that gives me peace knowing my struggles aren’t ignored
Psalm 19:14 May the Words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you. Lord, my rock and redeemer.
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I want the words that leave my mouth to honor God. To be pleasing to Him.
I’ve loved this verse, ever since honey M out it into song!
So true though, Traci, every word that leaves my mouth should be honouring to God..
May it be so..
Hugs dear Traci..❤
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Amen. same here.❤️
Be thou exalted, Lord, in thine own strength: so will we sing and praise thy power. – Psalm 21:13
We are not alone, God is always there. We just have to quiet down and let him speak to us.
Amen Julie ❤
Happy Friday. This week went by so fast. Well, i must admit, this is a marathon of psalms reading for me lol. I was about to whine (in my heart), and then the Lord asked me this, is it hard for you to handle someone else’s honest pains over the years? And then, He gave me a thought, if someone opens your journals that you have written in the past ten years, would it look like these psalms of tears and distress? Or would they find sunshine and roses? I sat and thought, my journals? oh geez, it will be filled with distress, with complaining and some anger, and a whole bunch of “How long Lord?” type of lamenting all over, and perhaps very few words of praise and relief. Then it hit me. Lord forgive me, I repent. David is so brave. Would I ever be comfortable sharing my journal entries of distress for all to read like David? Will I ever show that kind of vulnerability so others can learn how good God is? Forgive me. King David in these psalms, without fail, he always sandwiched his pain with praise and thoughts of hopes, thoughts of God’s promises. That is a mentally strong and an incredibly hopeful man. If I sat down and re-read my journal (do I dare), I doubted if I would find much positiveness in my own words, perhaps a “thank you Lord” at the end. Why do people resist hearing others’ complaints and distress, yet desire to be heard wholeheartedly when they experience distress themselves? Humans are so fragile, and funny. Listening to distress requires emotional labor: attention, empathy, regulation, and moral responsibility (is this pain unique or universal to all who seek to live a godly life?). Humans like to protect their emotional energy and preserve from discomfort. Ouch. And this brought us to another bigger truth, God is our ONLY hope and our closest friend. He listens with all the patience He has and He collect our tears.
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This reminds me of Job’s three “friends” who sat and listened to Job for seven days straight. They began well, with patience… without judgment, and then ended up judging “suffering is always the result of sin, you must have sinned somewhere Job”. Ouch. But no they were wrong and hurt Job with such condemnation. Suffering is not always the result of sin, but for the training of endurance, character building that leads to hope that keeps us from shame (“We also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us” Romans 5:3-5). So this is the truth. Truth will set us free. When we learn Truth, it is for discerning counterfeits that seek to tear down our peace, self worth in God, and strength to keep going. If someone tells us that our current sufferings are because of the secret sins, make sure we know this truth if we truly follow His commands. Humans are so fragile, and not equipped to carry one another’s pain well. Only God can. Therefore, come to the throne of Grace and Mercy, cast your pain, confusion, burdens and heartbreaks to God, our prayers will sound just like these psalms (depending on the extent of the battles of course). And our strength shall be renewed like the eagles when we wait on the Lord, we will mount up with wings like the eagles, we will run and not grow weary, we will walk and not faint. Wait patiently for the LORD; be strong and courageous. Wait patiently for the LORD! (Psalm 27:4). We go from strength to strength, until each appears before God in Zion (Psalm 84:7). For the evildoers will be cut off, but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land (Psalm 37:9).
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Btw, thank you SEARCHING and our beloved shes who pray for Canada against the restrictions of freedom of speech. Please keep praying with me on this legislation. My heart sank when I found out this is to protect the Islamic communities and their rights in Canada. This is how it slowly started and what else would be rolled out later under greater control and surveillance here. Lord have mercy. Thank you for your prayers. Be blessed dear sisters.
Praying Mercy. Next week TX is voting on a bill regarding sharia law. Last night a pastor was saying he loves, feeds and clothes everyone but we have to speak up in truth.
Amen sister. I stand in complete agreement with you. We must pray fervently that our nations, our homes, Texas remain a stronghold for truth and that any legislation attempting to integrate foreign or pagan systems is defeated. It’s time for the Church to be both a light and a shield. Thank you for this wake-up info. I did not realize how this is spreading quietly.
It’s coming, we better be prepared.
Such wisdom in your comment; continued prayers for Canada! ❤
This is so good Mercy! Indeed what if our journals got out.
OMG.
Let’s shut that one down now. !
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BUT GOD.❤
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Much love, Mercy..❤
lol..My friend and I used to joke, if I die- go grab my journals and burn them! But honestly I LOVE my journals I I tell all my groups to journal!! Not only are they SO good for us to talk to God honestly, but purposeful for us to look back and see how God answered us! I have my first “journal” from 23 years ago, that I still take to small groups, to show them how my simple prayers were there. My “David” crying out to help me! And I can see where God was right there in my heart in my worst trial. Plus, even though I laugh, it truly is a gift for whoever reads it, especially a child, after we are gone.
I read a particular journal page to my husband just a couple of days ago, about my frustration with our marriage. It was from 22, and he didn’t really want to hear it, but it was huge for him to know my feelings and how I was turning to God And he can actually see how in the last 3 years my heart has been for God to help our marriage, and my actions reveal it.
Such wisdom, Mercy! Thank you for sharing! Continued prayers for Canada AND the USA! ❤
I’m in Cznada too Mercy….fervent prayers indeed.
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Good morning sisters, I am over the worst of the Norovirus but not quite back to feeling normal. Thank you so much for your prayers!
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Things that I gleaned from today’s readings:
→Psalm 19:1-3 “The heavens declare the glory of God…” and my how they do! Every sunset, every sunrise, the rainbows, the galaxies – they all attest to His glory without a spoken word!
→Psalm 22:14 – “Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” This is my daily prayer.
→Psalm 20:7 “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Why do I ever trust in anything other than God – He is almighty, none is greater, none is more powerful!
→Psalm 21:7 “For the king trusts in the Lord through the unfailing love of the Most High he will not be shaken.”…and there it is once again, “hesed” which describes a sense of love and loyalty that inspires merciful and compassionate behavior towards another.
→Psalm 22 – a remarkable psalm of prophecy that parallels Matthew 27:27-49, and Matthew 28:10.
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So much take in from these Psalms. One thing that stands out as has been mentioned through the week is the humanness of David. But, even though he suffered and had many trials, he always returns to the hope he has in the Lord and past victories. May I learn to always do the same.
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So many good insights and comments from this week – thank you to all who have shared!
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@Mari V – praying for Alyssa and her situation at school.
@Kimberly Z – praying your interview goes well today and you will have confidence and peace as to whether to accept the job or not if offered.
@Tami – praying for you as you battle the enemy in thinking you are not good enough or as good as someone else. As one who battles with the same thoughts, I can totally relate. The sin of comparison is a great tool of Satan. I read lots of encouraging words for you and I echo them!
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Happy Friday She’s, may you be blessed today as you walk in the light of the Son. ❤️
I am so glad you’re feeling better today Sharon!
I hope Jonathan is as well.
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Continued prayers for your family ❤️
So happy to hear you are better Sharon. Praying that the conference goes well!
Glad to hear you are better and pray your stamina returns quickly and that Jeff and Jonathan stay healthy! ❤
Oh Sharon, thank God for your feeling better!
Ah, may we always return, no matter the trials, to the Hope we know we have in the Lord!
Amen.
Much healing love coming your way, Sharon.❤❤❤❤
So glad you are feeling better, Sharon.
Appreciate your thoughts ❤️
Psalm 22 is just such a powerful image that points to Jesus’ suffering on the cross and all the humiliation and pain He endured for us. What a powerful Psalm to read especially during this Lent season.
I feel like I get emotional whiplash reading through these all in a row :) :) :) However, I need the constant reminder that it’s glorifying to bring ALL of my emotion to God, the way I would a good friend, to pour out every part of my experience to him, and to simultaneously remember the truth that he is good; his plans are good; he’s working continuously that eventually all things will be used for good. So as we live in the present we can keep the perspective that is eternal. It points my heart to remember I do not serve a God who is in the slightest bit unfamiliar with suffering. True, gut wrenching suffering. He is the God of all comforts. He comforts us, then it multiplies as he comforts OTHERS through us… it’s just ongoing comfort. I have to remember that, intentionally, or the discomfort will take center spotlight, absorbing all of my attention and energy. The discomfort will turn into the thing I worship. Yuck. No thank you…
AMY LAFOLLETTE- Praying for you and Eden; My sweet loved one whom I mentioned in my reply-post to you on Wed. (who celebrated 1000 days sober last nov!!!) is earnestly praying daily for you and Eden as well ❤️ God is not silent –
Such a good reminder that God can hear it all. We do not need to hold back or assume that its too much to lay at His feet. Thank you for your thoughts.
My heart feels like psalm 22 but I don’t want to believe the lies that God has abandoned me because he has not. What a great reminder that God’s salvation is always near and in that I can rejoice.
God, never, has never will NEVER abandon us. Ever. Such truth!
Praying Katarina, that your heart will begin to feel the gentle love and beholding of God, who has never let go of His creation … You!
He is near..❤
Josh Cooley said, “God has not abandoned you. He is not silent or far off. He is, in fact, very near (Philippians 4:5), dwelling in the hearts of His beloved children. When you cry out, He listens.
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My verse for this reminder is Psalm 16:8 NLT-
I know the Lord is always with me.
I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.
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I ‘just happened upon’ this song- just released today. It echoes the verse I shared above. I haved lived this song and also thought of ‘our’ prodigals as I listened. Beautiful song! Going to listen again now!
SONG SHARE:
Lost – Steph Macleod & Pat Barrett (Music Video)
Lyrics:
I thought I lost my way
Searching for some mistakes
Been running in circles around in my head
Tryna to make sense of all that I’ve done, that I’ve said
But forgiveness is nothin’
If I can’t forgive myself
I’m not lost I’m just finding my way back home
I’m not broken I’m learning to let it all go
Over and over, I’ve lied to myself
I can’t hide from You anymore
I’m not lost I’m just finding my way back home
I’ve come a long, long way
Still can’t believe I’m safe
And holding me back is the weight of regret
All the hurt that I’ve caused, that I long to forget
I’m praying for changes
I’m willing to make amends
I’m not lost I’m just finding my way back home
I’m not broken I’m learning to let it all go
Over and over, I’ve lied to myself
I can’t hide from You anymore
I’m not lost I’m just finding my way back home
I don’t have to wait ‘til the end of the journey
To know of Your goodness and the sweet taste of mercy
I know that you’re here Lord, walking beside me
Show me the way
I’m not lost I’m just finding my way back home
I’m not broken I’m learning to let it all go
Over and over, I’ve lied to myself
I can’t hide from You anymore
I’m not lost I’m just finding my way back home
Show me the way
I don’t have to wait ‘til the end of the journey
To know of Your goodness and the sweet taste of mercy
I know that you’re here Lord, walking beside me
Show me the way
I’m not lost, I’m finding my way back home
I’m not lost, I’m finding my way back home
Show me the way
Written by Jonathan Jay, Pat Barrett, Nathan Jess & Steph Macleod
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Love, hugs, and prayers! ❤
Thank you Cee Gee for sharing!
The lyrics resonate with me as well.
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So glad, Martha! ❤
That blesses my heart, Martha! So glad it spoke to you, too!❤
Thank you for such a powerful song ❤️, you know so many good songs :) I tested the check/uncheck box and the Edit button is back. That was so clever of you to notice. Were you in IT before ? (I am genuinely curious)
Sweet sister, NO, I have never even had a beginner course in computers! ☺☺☺ What I know is just through trial and error! Mostly trial, and like I mentioned the other day – curiosity and tenacity!!! Just glad it worked! You blessed my heart with that question and compliment on songs. ❤
OMG..Cee Gee, what strong resonating words”I’m not lost, I’m just finding my way home ”
Amen!
Hugs Cee Gee!❤
The music is perfect for the lyrics- so soulful! ❤
I will return when I have finished reading the passages, but unsure how much time I will have to post. I wanted to ask if anyone would be open to pray for a woman in my bible study who is undergoing surgery for cancer today. I don’t know if she would be comfortable with me sharing her name on an open platform so I’ll just ask you to pray for “Anne” – God knows her name :) Her procedure is at 11:00 eastern, but prayers are received retroactively, thank goodness, so whenever it crosses your mind, I know it will be beneficial :) She has a husband and children – has been battling through this for quite a while now… God has her – pray, among other things, that she experiences his peace in all of it ❤️
HEIDI, I will pray for ‘Anne’ and for the medical team! Prayers for successful surgery, no infection, smooth and quick recovery, wisdom and compassion from the medical team, peace for her heart and her family! ❤
Praying ❤️
Praying for ‘Anne’ and prayerful all went well..
May it be so..❤
Heidi, I would consider it a privilege to pray for your friend. I know she has already had her surgery (since I am seeing this Saturday morning) but I pray for healing for her and wisdom for her care team. ❤️
Psalms 19:7-14. Just struck me with the beauty of it! Everything the Lord does is perfect because He is perfect. Even in silence He is perfect. He is using His silence to cause us to trust His plan and that He is working where I cannot see! But, we always have is Word so we can read comfort in our waiting! He never leaves us alone!
I needed this today. I’m on my 82nd visit to physical therapy for my wrist and shoulder! I have gotten weary and lost my focus after they told me it was my 80th visit! But God reminded me today to keep my eyes on Him and that He is at work!
God is faithful! Praying for all and for our prodigals!
82nd! Oh my! Cheryl, praying the healing is in sight..
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BUT GOD..
Sending you some healing hugs❤
82 visit….understandably that feels discouraging. I can relate to the wait of very slow healing and it is SO hard. Eyes on Jesus. He knows this path to healing❤️
God’s past faithfulness should inform our present state of mind. Sigh…. Last night was first time meeting for our bible study with women who have experienced divorce, or as I am, currently going through a divorce. I’ve shared it here before and shared it last night, that even in my most loneliest times, sitting on the corner of that black couch at the place I once called home. I know, that I know MY JESUS was with me and He heard my cry. Happy Friday sweeties! Its 33 degrees. Trying to get to work a little earlier to turn on the heater so our kiddos and I don’t freeze.
God’s past faithfulness should inform our present state of mind.. Amen.
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Mari, sending love across the pond, covered in hugs ❤
Wow, dear Mari! Who knew that it got that cold in CA? Praying for you (and others) who have gone through divorce or are currently going through it. God is with you through it all, dear friend! Praying for your court date in May. ❤️
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When my father died, I was crushed and to this day, I still grieve him. But when it happened, while I felt like I couldn’t connect with God, I also knew he was not far off. I felt disconnected but I could still feel him. Think of it like when you’re looking for a radio station and there is interference— you can hear a little bit of the music but not very clear. And I’m so grateful for that, because knowing that He was not far off, helped me not take on potentially unhealthy behaviors to deal with the grief that I was feeling. Thank you father for never leaving my side. I am so grateful for you.
Radio interference: great examole! ❤
Agreed!
I love the example Maria..
Hope your heart is knowing peace now and that our Father God, is close in your grieving..
Hugs ❤
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GM! It’s hard to go through the Psalms at this pace for me, although I agree it shows the theme of David’s dependence on God no matter his circumstances. But does that mean we have 100 plus more to go of the same!? (little laugh!). I do love Psalms, but I don’t think I’ve ever read it at a pace and grouping like this.
But, like I have said, I have never had an under par study from SRT in over 10 years- So this one must be great! Have we ever had a Psalms study?
I have only had one time in my life when I cried out to God to hear me and felt like he was silent. Yet even then I knew he heard me, just like David, I knew, but I wanted action on his behalf. I remember I would go back and forth between willfully sin and obedience. The willful sin was a quick balm! The band-aid that felt so good, then leaves you with regret. I felt abandoned and broken when my husband left me, and it was easy to get attention from other men after a few drinks. Oh how that cycle would keep repeating even though I hated it. It is a message to ones going through a valley, fire, pit season. Oh the devil will come to kill, steal, and destroy- easier when you are weak and sad. But stay close to God and rebuke the devil. For God always gives you an escape! FLEE. Quickly! Keep you armor, not close, but ready and prepared! For this is a spiritual war and Psalms is a great way to keep you focused on God, and that he sees and hears you. Surround yourself with Christ-followers to keep you accountable and focused. We can overcome our battles with the one that helps us through them in His strength, not ours. He is developing good fruits in us if we are patient and faithful, and steadfast.
I am always thankful that I had planted in me the seeds growing up in his truth. And so do are prodigals. When they come into their trials and barren lands…they too will remember God and look to him, and call out to Him! And then they will get clothed in his family robes again, a ring on their finger, and a great feast! That is what it took for me, (many of us). Our test ARE our testimony. Are you sharing yours?!
I was thinking this morning that I may refer to the older studies.I just scrolled through and was reminded that we did Psalms of Ascent, Psalms of Gratitude, etc., and spent 2 weeks in Psalm 119. When I have time, I think I will check out the old devos, too. ❤
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I agree CEE GEE, I remember those studies but don’t remember going through the entire book this way.
I’m getting into the groove of this study aware that, yes, Psalms are typically treated as a “I feel like this, I need to read Psalm ____” (and I might ‘miss something’ going this quickly
but….I HAVE loved over the years reading the Bible every which way… different translations, Chronological, 90-Day or One Year, adding in Deuterocanonical books, and then leaning into SRT’s themed studies….
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I think each experience worked / cultivated something different in me.
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I hope we will each glean what Jesus has for us this Lent.
Amen, Foster Mama! Yes, the studies before were thematic in nature rather than chronological. Just a thought:
It helps me to re-read the Plan Summary at the beginning of each week to realign my thinking. ❤
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Jesus said Psalm 22 when He was hanging on the cross!
Psalm 22 reminds me of the agony of the cross and how Jesus in his humanity turned to the Psalms in the darkest time of his law.
Psalm 19:14 ” May the words of my my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord, my rock and Reedemer.”
Our thought lives are so important that God even told us in the book of Phiilipians what to dwell on: ” “…whatever is true, whatever is honorable,whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely whatever is commendable- if there is any moral excellence and if there is anything praiseworthy- dwell on these things.” Phillipians 4:8
ABSOLUTELY!! Psalm 22 has so many details of the crucifixion of Christ!!
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But my delight today was to see these verses nestled in between,…
YESTERDAY, I was telling a woman that I love Jesus because He is Who He is and owes me nothing but, still has proven Himself faithful countless times in my own life and that of my parents. I acknowledged that I am so blessed that I grew up in a home where His name was lifted up (both being One to be feared and as a Daddy)
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Then just now, I read (22:9-10)
“It was you who brought me out of the womb, making me secure at my mother’s breast. I was given over to you at birth; you have been my God from my mother’s womb.” (CSB)
“But You are He who took Me out of the womb; You made Me trust (You) while on My mother’s breasts.
I was cast upon You from birth.
From My mother’s womb
You have been My God.” (NKJV)
LOVE THIS!!❤️
Thank you for the Phillipian reminder. Such a strong, steady advice for those who love and belong to Christ Jesus. This will boost anyone’s day.
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When I became Psalm 21 the header was the Kings victory. I started reading and I thought is this reference to David the king? Is this reference to Jesus the king? So I read the song twice. One with David in mind as king. And the second time with Jesus in mind as king. Really great exercise if you’re interested and gives different reflections.
Love you thought this – you’re not alone! :) Something I learned about this (and some other Psalms as well) is that in ancient Jewish understanding, the “king” was absolutely referring to the coming Messiah. However, towards the middle ages and greater rise of Christianity, there was a Rabbi who still felt this was possibly Messianic language, but felt more strongly/”ruled” the king reference in Ps 21 was to David. There are still 2 camps on the idea, but I feel like with all the Psalms we have that ARE Messianic in their theme of the coming Savior, it really could be either/or. I don’t know. But I LOVE that you read it with both perspectives because I think THAT is the point and is a very wise approach ❤️❤️❤️
thank you so much for this idea.
Amen
He is not far off! Grateful that sentiment rings true even when we feel distant from God! Verse of the day for me is Psalm 19:14 Psalm 19:14 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.”
Same!
Years ago we had a pastor who closed every service with that verse. He and his wife were lovely people and I remember them each time I hear it.
12 Who perceives his unintentional sins? Cleanse me from my hidden faults.
13 Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins; do not let them rule me. Then I will be blameless and cleansed from blatant rebellion.
14 May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.
I’ve been in a state of wallowing in my circumstances. The grass looks greener everywhere. I need a heart change. A word change. A thought change. God, please forgive ny sins. Please forgive ny wayward heart. Cleanse me Lord and guide ny heart and mind to you and your Word. Amen.
Amen!
I noted those verses, too, Meagan. v. 12 really caught my eye. I haven’t been looking for greener pastures, but I have felt some despair in current circumstances. I have made that a matter of prayer the past few weeks and it has helped steady me. We are on different ends of the spectrum age-wise with different circumstances, but He is our anchor and hope no matter our age or circumstances. Praise God!
God’s past faithfulness should be our current state of mind not concentrating on the present trial/the silence/or lies of the devil…..this aligns right along a sermon series we just finished
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Keep me safe, also, from willful sins; don’t let them rule over me.mThen I shall be perfect and free from the evil of sin…AND
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord, my rock and my Redeemer. AMEN!
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“Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name…”
Psalm 19:1 — “The heavens declare the glory of God…”
Father, Your name is already proclaimed in the skies. Creation honors You.
Let my life declare Your glory the way the heavens do.
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“Your kingdom come, Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven…”
Psalm 22:27–28 — “All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord… for kingship belongs to the Lord.”
You are King over all nations.
Bring Your reign into my heart today.
Rule my desires, my plans, my reactions.
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“Give us today our daily bread…”
Psalm 19:7 — “The instruction of the Lord is perfect, renewing one’s life.”
Feed me not only physically but spiritually.
Let Your Word sustain and restore me today.
Be my true nourishment.
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“Forgive us our debts…”
Psalm 19:12–13 — “Cleanse me from my hidden faults… keep your servant from willful sins.”
Search me, Lord.
Forgive what I see — and what I don’t see.
Guard me from pride and deliberate sin.
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“As we also have forgiven our debtors…”
Psalm 20:7 — “Some take pride in chariots and horses…”
Free me from pride and self-reliance.
Help me release others the way You release me.
Let my trust be in Your name alone.
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“And do not bring us into temptation…”
Psalm 21:7 — “For the king relies on the Lord… he is not shaken.”
Ground me in Your steadfast love.
When I am tested, keep me anchored in trust.
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“But deliver us from the evil one…”
Psalm 22:24 — “He did not hide his face… but listened when he cried for help.”
When I feel surrounded or distant from You,
remind me that You hear me.
Deliver me from despair and fear.
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“For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory…”
Psalm 21:13 — “Be exalted, Lord, in your strength…”
All strength, victory, and glory are Yours.
I end where I began — honoring You.
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Amen
Amen ❤️
Amen – great way to really pray the Lord’s Prayer. Thank you!
Perfectly beautiful.
You have a gift, KIMBERLY, I am always blessed to read your wonderfully assembled words.
Thank you, much love..❤
This is a beautiful prayer.❤️
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Another beautiful prayer! Thanks so much for sharing! ❤
How do you keep doing this?! ❤️:)
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May God bless you and keep your gift always for His glory…and OUR hearts!!
I really like this “Rule my desires, my plans, my reactions”, what a bold prayer of surrendering.
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Beautiful!
Perfectly beautiful.
You have a gift, KIMBERLY, I am always blessed to read your wonderfully assembled words.
Thank you, much love..❤
This is so beautiful. I love how you are doing this and I pray your prayers!
Thank you!!
BG verse today Proverbs 17:9
NKJV He who covers a transgression seeks love, But he who repeats a matter separates friends.
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LIVING BIBLE Love forgets mistakes; nagging about them parts the best of friends.
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HEATHER SAVAGE praying for the Lord’s comfort and guidance during this tough time
MEAGAN C – yes, may I also choose Him and His ways each day, realizing I need Him everyday – not just when I think I do.
DONNA WOLCOTT and others – yes, Andrew Ripp’s I’d Do It Again, so good.
KIMBERLY Z – praying for today’s interview and the Lord’s wisdom as you evaluate this new opportunity and vice versa. May He guide you today.
SHARON JERSEY GIRL – praying for a speedy recovery from this virus, and that Jeff and Jonathan remain in good health. Praying for healing of Jonathan’s ear!
GWINETH52 ❤️
MARTHA HIX ❤️
CEE GEE – thanks for song ❤️
KRISTY ❤️ “I want this for you”, God
ADRIENNE ❤️ comment made me ask, am I doing my right, or seeking and doing God’s right?
MARI V – praying Alyssa has been able to get things sorted out with her class
MARIA B ❤️
TAMI – ❤️ Thankful yesterday was a great day! Praying the Lord has given you clarity in this struggle, we know He has given you the talents and gifts you need for this trip, He is enough and has equipped you well. And the bullying, it was relentless throughout my school years, elementary and on up. It took a long time (I’m much older than you) but I finally learned, what does it matter if I can’t do things they can do? ‘Cause guess what, most of them can’t do things I can do. Let’s praise Him that we are fearfully and wonderfully made by Almighty God, in His image.
TINA ❤️
A WALTON praying for wisdom and guidance by our Lord with the house and all things. Praying an even better deal will show up at just the right time.
Thank you Searching!
Praying!
❤ Thank you again for the prayer shout-outs!
Thank you Searching!
I appreciate your thoughtfulness, wisdom, and prayer reflections!
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I am so sorry that the bullying happened at such a young age for you. That broke my heart. And yet you are one of the kindest and most gentle voices on here that seek to bring such comfort, love and encouragement to so many of us day after day year after year. What a tremendous blessing you are to us sister. I pray the painful memories be healed. Hugs and love.
Amen! I totally agree with Mercy on this! I LOVE your encouragement for Tami! You are a ‘rock star’ sister in Christ and we love you so! ❤
Echoing Mercy’s comments. ❤️
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“God’s past faithfulness should inform our present state of mind”
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Psalm 19:12-14 stuck out to me today. Thankful that confession of known (willfull) sin brings cleansing from unknown (unintentional) sin (1 John 1:9)!
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KIMBERLY Z – praying all goes well with your interview today.
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SHARON JERSEY GIRL – so sorry you are so sick! Praying it passes quickly so that you can go to the conference.
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MARI V – praying Alyssa’s crisis is resolved quickly.
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MARGARET W. – praying the Lord continues to bring healing to your heart.
Yes that was the verse that captured me this morning as well!
Praying over requests
That passage spoke strongly to me, too! ❤
Thanks again for your prayer mentions! ❤
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How is your mom doing, Kelly, and the young mom we have prayed for?
Thank you Kelly..❤❤
I’m kinda finding reading so many Psalms in one go hard, but… today I am really encouraged by how real David is. His emotions vary almost as much as mine do – one minute victorious, the next full of despair! The one thing that doesn’t seem to change is his worship, the way he looks to God and trusts in His love, faithfulness, promise keeping goodness. I’m inspired again to be the same, whatever my emotions might be today and whatever comes my way.
Me too. It’s hard to fully absorb it all. You’ve given us a really good summary to keep in mind. Thanks.
agree, and agree!
I agree. Each day is reading and study and prayer time is more than traditionally needed with these studies. I have decided that it will be my sacrifice for lent. Because I really got to thinking about it. What do I want to stop reading and studying in God’s word for? To watch a TV show? To scroll the internet? When did I ever decide that 15 minutes in the word was enough?
I’m struggling with this as well. I find it hard to be present in each one. Thank you for your insight
yes- WORSHIP. Worship and prayer are two of the greatest postures we can hold and yet I think we don’t often credit them as we should. We tend to think worship is for when all had gone well, but worship is a state of mind we are so privileged to have the opportunity to live in, if we choose to. In one of the most devastating seasons of my life I remember verbally “challenging” God on his call of worship and the idea that peace and anguish can actually coexist. And I’m telling you- he met me right there and proved it. When I chose to intentionally, actively participate in constantly naming and acknowledging who God was and praising him for it, it brought comfort, purpose, peace and community into my pain. I KNEW I was not alone, he was so close. I wonder sometimes had I not taken him up on his word, how damaging that season of my life COULD have been. Worship is not a response to our circumstances, it’s a minute by minute calling that brings glory to him and peace in us.
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Praying you have a heart shift in the reading of the Psalms, Helen…❤❤
“Cleanse me from my hidden faults. Moreover, keep your servant from willful sins; do not let them rule me.” Oh the faithful conviction of the Holy Spirit! Father, keep me so close to You that I am quick to repent and much, much slower to repeat sin – willful or otherwise!
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Yes @Sally B this stopped me in my tracks too- I have a sin problem and I am praying v14 over my life today “may the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, Lord my rock and my redeemer!!!”
Amen! ❤
Amen Sister!! This jumped out to me too!
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God is still working for us behind the scenes even if we dont know it yet. Loving reading Psalm by Psalm and digging deep in this devotional x
Great devotional to remind us of God’s character. I just told my husband the other day I am so unsure of making decisions as God seems so silent. I need to focus on what I do know of God.
Update on house: still haven’t started. Got bad news they need to build another retaining wall (where will the money come from??). They are working on draining plans now and once that is finished I think they can begin? I am not sure. At least it isn’t our fault for the hold up this time. I don’t know why our engineer waited so late to look at our land, so now these new plans have taken more time. We were hoping to order our kitchen soon as IKEA has a deal going on right now (very good one), but now we don’t have a house for them to deliver it to. So many problems because of the delays.
Also would appreciate prayers for my dad. He was recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Thanks. It’s hard to be so far away.
Praying for your dad’s healing and the Lord’s guidance of treatment route. It’s a hard diagnosis to hear, for sure. Thankful my husband is a 10+ year survivor.
ugh, had written out, and it erased for both of you!
But praise God for your husband’s healing and prayers for your dad A. I said you must have the patience of a saint with this house and living in that small apartment with the kids and hubby!
Praying for your dad A Walton and for the house situation.
Praying for your dad and for your house to get going on the build and no more delays.
Praying for successful and tolerable treatments for your dad and complete healing! Praying for your daughter heart in not being near and praying all the timing/delays will reveal God’s Hand in the end. I know it’s hard to see that while while things are happening or NOT happening!
After a long day I am still up and now the first one to post. I can’t thank you enough for your encouraging words. You are truly my sisters in Christ and I am grateful. Today was a great day! I leaned on the Lord to help me navigate the old wounds surfacing. And I’m sure he heard your prayers. I loved what Rhonda wrote, I am only to be focused on my audience of one. Thank you for that reminder. Have a blessed day ladies! And thank you again!
So glad to hear the Lord met you andbyou are encouraged. Remember He has prepared good works for YOU to do and you bring Him glory when you are faithful to do them.
Yes, amen!! He HAS PREPARED us!! He just needs our Yes! Did you order the book study we are doing Tami? What happens when women say Yes to God? I think that will be helpful!! I have learned, from not really learning in my long Christian life, that we need the infilling of the Spirit! New and fresh all the time to give us the fire to “make things happen” with boldness and courageousness!! Then you know it is not by yourself, but He who lives in us! A game-changer!! For Jesus himself did all the miracles after the dove landed on him. And the disciples, after already being saved and baptized were told they would receive it and do great things! As I’m writing this I remember you did say you had questions about all this in our Acts study. Ask the Lord! :) I know I could not do any leading on my own for sure..it is ALL by my dependence and asking him to fill me! And then I’m amazed when I come alive! I would literally feel a change when I would get in my own head again.
I agree with Kelly- all of our days are better when we focus on the fruit we should be bearing. As Jesus said in John 15 – love people like He loved us and that means loving other people sacrificially by giving ourselves, our time, effort, money. It’s life changing when we make this our daily goal.
It sure is Pam—life changing when we make loving people our daily goal. I pray for diving moments and to say YES!
Answered prayers, Tami! Awesome! Continued prayers for the rest of your trip! ❤
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What a God we look to. What a Father God who heard the cries of His children. So glad your day was a good one. As you continue to lean on Him I will continue to hold you in prayer for the rest of the trip..
He is near.
He is faithful.
He is good.
Amen.
Much love to you and thank you for what you are doing in His name..❤❤
Praise the Lord for great encouragement for your hearts as you serve Tami. Eyes on Jesus as you minister.❤️