A Prayer For Rescue

O God, insolent people rise up against me;

a violent gang is trying to kill me.

You mean nothing to them.

But you, O Lord,

are a God of compassion and mercy,

slow to get angry

and filled with with unfailing love and faithfulness.

Look down and have mercy on me.

Give your strength to your servant;

save me, the son of your servant.

Psalm 86:14-16

What situations have revealed your weakness and vulnerability the most? When have you most needed God’s power? In this prayer, David described to God the predicament he found himself in. Arrogant people were opposing him, and some wanted to murder him. The odds against him were overwhelming, and he frankly admitted that to God. Yet David used a simple word to turn his prayer around—the word but. He used the word but to move his thoughts from his sizeable problems to his infinite and almighty God.

Once you have listed and lifted your troubles to God, follow David’s example and acknowledge that no matter how daunting your situation may be, God is greater. He is the source of power—now and always.

• Almighty God, give me your strength and save me, for I am your servant . . .