Psalm 34
July 26, 2026 Father, you are great! You are boundless! You are a God merciful, and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. Before the foundations of our universe, you were expressive and relational by your nature.
Nothing we say or do can add to your greatness.
You alone instruct and rule our planet, our social structures, and all that grow all around us.
You confound us sending gently rains and storms on the just and the unjust. Your ways and thoughts are higher than any we can imagine.
Although we seldom think of angels, we believe you have the power and the desire to work for our good in our world both in ways we see and in those that we don’t see. And we come to you seeking refuge.
We are all journeying through life, uncertain of the number of days we have. Facing new challenges day in and day out that wear us down, zap our energy and sometimes cause us to question if you are there or if you are really a God who cares enough to concern yourself with the circumstances of our lives. Although David’s situation was far different than ours he was not in a good place when he used the words of this Psalm to encourage himself and those around him to change their hearts and lift their souls.
Father, teach us through this Psalm how to boast about you and exalt in your name. Nourish our souls as we read, digest and consume your words in scripture.
Help us live in our world where corruption and evil are rampant. Protect us in our times of trouble and remind us of the times we have tasted your joy!
Even without all the advertising we see, we are all overstimulated, overzealous wanter’s. We want new, we want shiny, we want bigger, we want nicer … and we even talk about all these wants as our needs. Teach us again to seek the Lord and find our fulfillment in you rather than being hungry young lions with selfish excessive wants.
Be patient with us and forgive us, for we are lifelong learners humbly leaning into your love and learning to fear you appropriately.
Instruct us now as David leads us to meditate further on this Psalm together.
We offer this prayer before you now, Amen.