PrayerBits for Friday

Scripture lesson: Psalm 130 Hesed

Time to reflect: There is a Hebrew word used in verse 7 that really can't be translated into English. “Steadfast love” is as good as any, although a variety of words and phrases are used in the English Bible for this one word. One aspect of the word is that it is “over and above the call of duty loyalty to someone with which one has a relationship.” It is usually applied to God who, alone has the ability to have this characteristic. It is a really strong word and English words are pale in comparison. The Psalm as a whole reflects the meaning of this one word.

Moving Throughout the day: Meditate on God's Hesed and what that means for you personally.

Scripture:

Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD;

O Lord, hear my voice.
Let your ears be attentive
to my cry for mercy.

If you, O LORD, kept a record of sins,
O Lord, who could stand?

But with you there is forgiveness;
therefore you are feared.

I wait for the LORD, my soul waits,
and in his word I put my hope.

My soul waits for the Lord
more than watchmen wait for the morning,
more than watchmen wait for the morning.

O Israel, put your hope in the LORD,
for with the LORD is unfailing love
and with him is full redemption.

He himself will redeem Israel
from all their sins.