Praying the Psalms: Psalm 5

1 Listen to my words, Lord, consider my lament. 2 Hear my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray.

3 In the morning, Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait expectantly.* 4 For you are not a God who is pleased with wickedness; with you, evil people are not welcome. 5 The arrogant cannot stand in your presence. You hate all who do wrong; 6 you destroy those who tell lies. The bloodthirsty and deceitful you, Lord, detest. 7 But I, by your great love, can come into your house; in reverence I bow down toward your holy temple.**

8 Lead me, Lord, in your righteousness because of my enemies— make your way straight before me.*** 9 Not a word from their mouth can be trusted; their heart is filled with malice. Their throat is an open grave; with their tongues they tell lies. 10 Declare them guilty, O God! Let their intrigues be their downfall. Banish them for their many sins, for they have rebelled against you. 11 But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.

12 Surely, Lord, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.

Heavenly Father, please hear what I pray now. I will put my requests before You and wait for You to work in Your marvelous way. You can't stand lies, deceit, arrogance, jealousy, corruption. I know You are saddened by the state of the world You created. But in this world, I have come to know You, by Your grace and great love. Thank you! So I come before You now, asking You to lead me in ways of righteousness. In ways that are honourable and bring glory to You. Let me rest in You. Let Your joy be on my lips forever. Protect me against the darkness of evil. Help me to rejoice in You. Bless me please as I walk through this life. Shield me with Your favour. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Questions for discussion and reflection

* What request can you lay before God today?

** What can you boldly, yet reverently confess to God today?

*** Do you feel lost and directionless at the moment? What can you ask God for to guide you?