Unleashed: As You Go – Pray

“You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11

“The life of prayer, like life itself, is not always happy and peaceful. Into prayer we take our anxieties, loneliness and discouragement along with our joy, awe and celebration. In order to deepen any intimate relationship, we must be honest about our feelings.” (author unknown)

The collection of 150 Psalms are inspired and honest prayers; containing songs of praise and prayers of lament, hymns celebrating God’s steadfast love and prayers for vindication against enemies. The Psalms cover the full range of emotions of our ups and downs on our spiritual journey.

The story is told of a professor who would often ask his students, “How are things with your heart?” This simple but powerful question forces us to stop and reflect. The Psalms put words to this question that go beyond our superficial responses, especially as we encounter the major recurring theme in the Psalms that “God’s path is a way of life.”

I didn’t hesitate to follow the Google map directions as we drove through the Colorado mountains last week. I knew we were on the right path if I listened and responded to the directions. Such is our life as we let God ask us the question, “How are things with your heart?” and then follow the path upon which He directs us.

Read and reflect on Psalm 16 with this question before you, “How are things with your heart?”

“Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge. I say to the LORD, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.

As for the holy ones in the land, they are the noble, in whom is all my delight.

Those who choose another god multiply their sorrows; their drink offerings of blood I will not pour out or take their names upon my lips.

The LORD is my chosen portion and my cup; you hold my lot. The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places; I have a goodly heritage.

I bless the LORD who gives me counsel; in the night also my heart instructs me. I keep the LORD always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be moved.

Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure. For you do not give me up to Sheol, or let your faithful one see the Pit.

You show me the path of life. In your presence there is fullness of joy; in your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16

What are the spiritual gifts you have found along your path?

What moments in the last 24 hours do you feel grateful for?

What counsel has God given you this last week?

LORD, show me the path of life that I may walk fully and completely in your presence and secure your fullness of joy and pleasures forevermore.

God is great,

Pastor Lynn