The psalmist is crying out to the Lord for rescue, and his prayer was answered. There is no greater joy than experiencing answered prayer. Especially when the answer is what you were hoping for. Unanswered prayer may really be answered prayer, just not the outcome we were hoping for.
I don’t know about you, but I have found myself telling God how he should answer my prayers. When I catch myself doing that, I correct myself and claim it as my desire, but that the will of God is what I truly long for. God knows best. God has a better plan in store for us. We need to trust him.
I had to smile to myself as I read verses 6-7. Peace vs. War. This is a struggle that is as old as the hills. And we all know people who seem more content when they are picking a fight or stirring the pot,, so to speak. Do you have someone in mind, too? I want everyone to be happy all the time; I am a people pleaser. I avoid confrontation at all costs. I would not have been a good trial lawyer, even though I was an amazing paralegal getting ready for trial. So I can identify with the psalmist.
In the bigger picture, in our world today, peace is hard to find. There are so many countries at war with each other. Over what? Some battles have been raging for decades. Can those fighting even remember what they are fighting for? Even within the same country you’ll find tension, differences of opinion, and evil words are being bantered around like a tennis ball. While not full blown warfare, there are casualties, hurt feelings, and broken hearts. What happened to peace? Are there any peacekeepers left in the world?
Let’s pray. Father, stir in our hearts the desire for peace. Help us to love each other despite our differences. You have created each one of us, and we are all special to you. Thank you for how you have made us. Give the leaders of countries wisdom and a desire for peace and not war. Reveal yourself to me today. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
