Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, prepare me to receive your word. Clear my mind and warm my heart. Assure me of your loving purposes for me, and speak into my life today.
In the Good News Bible, this psalm is headed, 'The prayer of an innocent person'. This is a fair description: the psalmist is convinced that God knows his heart and 'found no evil desire in me' (verse 3). He says he has 'always walked in your way and have never strayed from it' (verse 5). The psalm paints a picture of someone whose faithful living has grounded them and provided a firm foundation for when they face times of trouble. As often in the Psalms, these troubles are personified as attacks by evil people. That may be true for us, but sometimes when we're going through trials that are no one's fault, it can feel as though we're being personally targeted.
Because of the way the psalmist's character has been shaped by a lifetime of faithfulness, he can pray with confidence, asking God to 'Protect me as you would your very eyes; hide me in the shadow of your wings' (verse 8). He is aware of living in a precarious world, where evildoers watch for him like hungry lions (verse 12) and all too often seem to prosper. But his faithful discipleship armours him against fear or doubt.
Habits of prayer and spiritual self-discipline can be hard to acquire, especially in a world with so many distractions. But they help see us through the dark times when we feel we're under attack.
God, teach me the path of patient discipleship. Help me to dwell in your word and trust in your love and mercy day by day, so that I can stand firm in times of trouble.
This reflection was written by Mark Woods, Bible Society's Editor
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