A Prayer For Discernment

I am your servant; deal with me in unfailing love,

and teach me your decrees.

Give discernment to me, your servant;

then I will understand your laws.

LORD, it is time for you to act,

for these evil people have violated your instructions.

Truly, I love your commands

more than gold, even the finest gold.

Each of your commandments is right.

That is why I hate every false way.

Psalm 119:124-128

The trials and struggles in our lives often force us to turn somewhere for help. Too often, however, we anxiously seek out any listening ear when we’re confronted with a troublesome situation. The psalmist knew to turn to the Lord first for wisdom and discernment. He asked God, “Teach me your decrees,” and “Give discernment to me.” He knew that living God’s way would keep him from foolish actions and the path of destruction. That is why he committed himself to learning God’s laws in the Scriptures and applying them to his life.

What difficult situation are you facing? God promises to give us wisdom when we ask for it (James 1:5), so pray for God’s discernment in your struggle and ask him to show you how to apply his wisdom to your situation.

• Dear Lord, as your servant I ask you to give me discernment . . .