Category Archives: Psalm 34

The Lord hears us

James Tissot (1836–1902).
The Pharisee and the Publican (Le pharisien et le publicain), 1886–1894.
Opaque watercolor over graphite on gray wove paper. Brooklyn Museum.
(Photo: Brooklyn Museum)

The prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds; it does not rest till it reaches its goal, nor will it withdraw till the Most High responds, judges justly and affirms the right, and the Lord will not delay.
Sirach 35:21-22a

Holy scripture assures us God hears the cries of the oppressed, the poor, the downtrodden, the marginalized, and all who are treated with disdain, injustice, and inhumanity. God invites us to open our hearts and pray from our pain and our need—without subterfuge, self-delusion, or self-aggrandizing. Our faith teaches us that God hears and answers all who willingly pray in humility and truth.

Today I will humbly admit to God my weaknesses and failures, sorrows and fears, desires and needs. I will ask God to strengthen me and guide me along the path of forgiveness, reconciliation, love, and compassion. I trust I will be heard. I trust God will respond with mercy.

Being led to the light

The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;
and those who are crushed in spirit he saves. Psalm 34:19

It has been a long week of pain, panic, and distress. With gratitude, I remember the kind people who are praying for me. And I also remember that Jesus knows the truth of human suffering and is walking with me, guiding me through this dark tunnel to the light at the other end.

Today I will trust the Holy One of God is leading me to new life.

God answers

(Hans) Sebald Beham (1500-1550)
Die Geschichte des verlorenen Sohnes/
The Prodigal Son, 1538
Private Collection

When the poor one called out, the LORD heard, and from all his distress he saved him. Psalm 34:7

God is present. God hears me when I call out. God saves me from distress by blessing me with courage and strength to bear a burden, by showing me what to do in a difficult situation, by giving me the right words at the right moment, by removing my resentments, by helping me to grieve, and through the kindness and compassion of other people.

Today I will call on God for all my needs. I will trust that my prayer will be answered and stay alert to receive the help God provides.