Praying the Psalms: Psalm 4

1 Answer me when I call to you, my righteous God. Give me relief from my distress; have mercy on me and hear my prayer.

2 How long will you people turn my glory into shame? How long will you love delusions and seek false gods?

3 Know that the Lord has set apart his faithful servant for himself; the Lord hears when I call to him.*

4 Tremble and do not sin; when you are on your beds, search your hearts and be silent.

5 Offer the sacrifices of the righteous and trust in the Lord.

6 Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine on us.**

7 Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound.

8 In peace I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.***

Father in heaven, I call on you now. Please hear me. The burden I carry on my heart is weighing me down. I see the way people forget You, reject You, ignore You. They look to anything and everything to push You away. But You pursue us relentlessly. You have set apart those whom You've called. You hear me when I call to You. Spirit, search my heart. Help me to trust in You, God. When others are lost and wondering where help will come from, help me to remember You and to point them to You. Fill my heart with Your joy, no matter what situation I'm in. Let me rest in Your arms. Bring me peace and help me sleep. For You alone make me dwell in safety. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Questions for reflection and discussion

* Although we may not always get the answer we desire, how can we know that God hears our prayers?

** What questions are you hearing cried out by those around you today? How can you bring God's message of hope and love to them?

*** Do you ever have trouble sleeping? What promises from Scripture can you dwell on to bring you peace and the rest you need?