Day 56: Mercy

Everyone goes through hard times--some more than others, perhaps, but no one is exempt. I myself face difficult challenges every day. By no means am I trying to argue that my life is any more challenging than anyone else's, because I know that there are others who struggle much more than I do. However, just because each of us faces our own unique obstacles doesn't mean that we have to conquer them alone. God is on our side.

Be merciful unto me, O God: for man would swallow me up; he fighting daily oppresseth me.
Mine enemies would daily swallow me up: for they be many that fight against me, O thou most High.
What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.
In God I will praise his word, in God I have put my trust; I will not fear what flesh can do unto me.
Every day they wrest my words: all their thoughts are against me for evil.
They gather themselves together, they hide themselves, they mark my steps, when they wait for my soul.
Shall they escape by iniquity? in thine anger cast down the people, O God.
Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book?
When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know; for God is for me.
In God will I praise his word: in the LORD will I praise his word.
In God have I put my trust: I will not be afraid what man can do unto me.
Thy vows are upon me, O God: I will render praises unto thee.
For thou hast delivered my soul from death: wilt not thou deliver my feet from falling, that I may walk before God in the light of the living?
~Psalm 56:1-13 (KJV)

Okay, I know this is a long one, but I felt compelled to use the chapter in its entirety; it really is a simple yet beautiful prayer. I especially like the fact that it repeats, sort of like a song. Not only is it rhythmically pleasing, it emphasizes the message of this passage: praise God and trust Him. Also, while I can't speak for everyone, it's easy to repeat oneself when praying. That isn't a bad thing! If you really need guidance and/or strength, you may find yourself repeating the same thing over and over. If you're praising God and thanking Him repeatedly, I don't think He minds. You don't have to be a loquacious scholar to pray "correctly." You just need to speak from your heart.

Now, onto the actual message. The world may be a cruel place, but that doesn't mean that God is any further away from us. On the contrary, living in such a troubled place brings us closer to God. Even though there is evil in the world, God is with us--there is no need to fear. With His infallible protection, nothing on earth can touch our souls. Our bodies may age and get hurt, but our souls are protected by God. Think of your body as a house and your soul as a person: if your house is destroyed, you can still survive because God is your insurance! Nothing that happens to our bodies can damage our spirits if we keep our faith and trust strong in God Almighty!

Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for my family, friends, and pets; I ask that You please watch over them and keep them safe, strong, happy, and healthy. Lord, I ask that You please bless them with the desires of their hearts, just so long as they are in line with Your plans. Please watch over those who serve this country and defend Your name; please bless them with strength and courage and bring them home safe. Please watch over their families and friends and bless them with strength as well, especially in times of separation and/or loss. Bless those who cannot defend themselves with family and friends who can help to defend and take care of them. I pray that those who do not believe in You are blessed with good Christian family and friends who can help bring the non-believers back to You, Lord. I ask that You please watch over me and give me strength in tough times. Please forgive me of my sins and continue to guide me down Your path as You always have. I trust and love You, Lord, with all of my heart and soul and mind and being. I am forever Yours no matter what happens. In Jesus' name, Amen.


Love and God Bless,
M.C.