Psalms 67-71

As we read through the Psalms, I take so much comfort in knowing (through these timeless prayers and praises of others) that our prayers and conversations with God can be very personal and specific to our current circumstances.

God cares about each one of us.  He wants to work in our lives.  

It's really okay to spell out to God exactly what's on our minds.  Psalms 67-71 are a reflection of that truth today.

This truth may be obvious to you, but it wasn't always obvious to me.

I have always prayed freely and very openly for others.  But, I used to think my prayers needed to be more general and non-specific when it came to my own life because I feared being selfish.  

And as I have grown in my faith, I realized the more targeted, specific, and detailed I am in my prayers, the more God can guide me and use me.  Really, it's the difference between surface conversation and deep life-changing conversation.  That's not selfish, it's purposeful for God.

It's really amazing to talk to God and see Him work before your eyes on the very things You have been talking to Him about.  

The more I hand over to Him in conversations and in my heart, the more I see Him work wonders in my life and in those around me.

My prayers, more and more, aren't about my wants but about making sure what I am doing day to day is in line with God's will for me because His way is so much better than mine.

My mouth is filled with your praise,

    declaring your splendor all day long.

Psalm 71:8

As we go about our day today, let's spend time praising God for all the ways we are able to see His splendor.  Let's say "thank you" to God for all He is doing.  

And you know what?  I challenge you to join me in pushing yourself a little today.

Let's pray for the opportunities to go beyond being thankful in our own hearts to sharing our thanks and praises with those that cross our paths today.

A prayer for today-

Dear God,

I thank You for revealing Yourself to me throughout my days.

Your wonderful works are so many that it is impossible to praise You enough.

Forgive me for all the ways my heart and mouth fail to reflect Your perfect love.

I pray You will fill my heart and my mouth with Your praises all day long.  Help me see You and feel Your presence.  And as I do, Lord, help me to share Your splendor with others in a way that fills them with the love of Christ.  Give me the right words to draw others closer to You.

Use me this day for Your great purposes.

In Jesus' name I pray,

Amen

Grace,

*This post is part of A Mind-Maker-Upper's Everyday Reading Project.  Click here to read more.