TAU - Our conversations with God have at least three components – prayer, supplication and thanksgiving. All three are demonstrated in these verses. Verse 169 he prays and ask God to allow his prayers into the Throne Room. We often forget how exalted a privilege we have to simply bow our heads and pray – no sacrifices, no fear or being struck down because of our unworthiness, we just pray. The Psalmist asks for understanding and we know the Holy Spirit gives us understanding so we pray according to the will of the Father.
The he speaks of supplication. What exactly is supplication? Webster’s Online Dictionary gives this definition: A humble petition; an earnest request; an entreaty. One gets the idea this has a lot to do with attitude. Let us never forget when we pray we are God’s beloved children not demanding but believing our prayers will be answered simply because he loves us. This does not mean we always get instantaneous answers. Sometimes we have to “press in” i.e. go against our inclinations to give up or doubt God will answer. We also learn to put our own desires under subjection believing God will always have our best at heart.
Verses 171 and172 talks about giving praise which goes hand in hand with worship. Simply put we praise the worth of our God. Where shall we begin – God’s power in creation as the architect and sustainer of all things? We can speak of salvation, redemption, healing and daily provision – a truly endless list. Here’s a little exercise. The very next night you have trouble sleeping try counting blessings instead of counting sheep. If by chance you run out of things to be thankful for, start praising.
I love the Psalmist because he never gets so engaged in his devotion he forgets his weaknesses. None of us are strong enough to live the Christian life on our own because sheep will always behave like sheep. We wander. I have gone astray like a lost sheep; seek thy servant; for I do not forget thy commandments verse 176. If sheep are always "sheepish" imagine our faithful Shepherd who is the same yesterday, today, and forever! He truly deserves our praise. Copyright 8/2010
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