PrayerBits for Friday

PrayerBits

A bite sized devotional program
produced by the West Side Presbyterian Church

Friday

Scripture Lesson: Psalm 4 A happy song

Time to reflect: Almost all of the Psalms were intended to be sung in the Temple. They were, we believe, a part of a series of songs: appeal to God, God's response (from a Prophet), a response of joy from the original petitioner. A petitioner could come in with an original song or they could hire one of the Temple musician groups. The “Psalms of David” were from a particular group. Headings to the psalms, such as this one, gave instruction to the musicians. As best as we can determine “Selah” means a musical break or solo.

Moving Throughout the day: What kind of “Psalm” song would you write if you were to present yourself before God today? What existing hymns or songs would you choose to use?

 Scripture:

Answer me when I call to you,
       O my righteous God.
       Give me relief from my distress;
       be merciful to me and hear my prayer.

  How long, O men, will you turn my glory into shame ?
       How long will you love delusions and seek false gods ?
       Selah

  Know that the LORD has set apart the godly for himself;
       the LORD will hear when I call to him.

  In your anger do not sin;
       when you are on your beds,
       search your hearts and be silent.
       Selah

  Offer right sacrifices
       and trust in the LORD.

  Many are asking, "Who can show us any good?"
       Let the light of your face shine upon us, O LORD.

 You have filled my heart with greater joy
       than when their grain and new wine abound.

I will lie down and sleep in peace,
       for you alone, O LORD,
       make me dwell in safety.