Have you thought about what a privilege it is that we can go to God and ask? A king’s subject would never consider “bothering” the sovereign for daily needs, or for a boost in morale, or for relationship advice . . .
but the king’s child would. And I am a child of the King of Kings.
Incline your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Preserve my life, for I am godly; save your servant who trusts in you — you are my God. Be gracious to me, O Lord, for to you do I cry all the day. Gladden the soul of your servant, for to you, O Lord, do I lift up my soul.
For you, O Lord, are good and forgiving, abounding in steadfast love to all who call upon you. Give ear, O Lord to my prayer; listen to my plea for grace. In the day of my trouble I call upon you, for you answer me. Psalm 86:1-7
When troubles abound, when life is hard, energy spent, hope faltering . . .
I am not left to my own devices. God does not turn His back on me and say, “come back when you can be happy!”
I admit my need. I am assured He is my Father. I cry out to Him. I ask Him to “gladden my soul.”
And God hears. God listens. God answers. Amazing.
There is none like you among the gods, O Lord, nor are there any works like yours . . .For you are great and do wondrous things; you alone are God. Teach me your way, O Lord, that I may walk in your truth; unite my heart to fear your name. I give thanks to you, O Lord my God, with my whole heart, and I will glorify your name forever For great is your steadfast love toward me, you have delivered my soul from the depths . . .Psalm 86:8-13
I can ask God for a heart of gladness. A heart of thankfulness. God doesn’t shake His finger and scorn me for unhappiness and trouble. He delivers me.
Turn to me and be gracious to me; give your strength to your servant. . .show me a sign of your favor, that those who hate me may see and be put to shame because you Lord, have helped me and comforted me. Psalm 86:16-17
Strength. Help. Comfort. These are gifts of a loving Father to His precious child.
And I am so grateful!
Plea for Grace 