Our call to worship this week is Psalm 31:1-8, taken from the New International Version (NIV).
In you, Lord , I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame; deliver me in your righteousness. Turn your ear to me, come quickly to my rescue; be my rock of refuge, a strong fortress to save me. Since you are my rock and my fortress, for the sake of your name lead and guide me. Keep me free from the trap that is set for me, for you are my refuge. Into your hands I commit my spirit; deliver me, Lord , my faithful God. I hate those who cling to worthless idols; as for me, I trust in the Lord . I will be glad and rejoice in your love, for you saw my affliction and knew the anguish of my soul. You have not given me into the hands of the enemy but have set my feet in a spacious place.
The psalmist calls out to God for rescue and refuge. This prayer confirms our trust in God’s strength and acknowledges our inability to save ourselves. It is often hard for us to admit our weakness because we fear giving up the control we think we possess.
God gave us the gifts of reason and free will to make decisions and act on them. We are special to Him because of the way we are made. However, we know that our choices sometimes lead to failure.
Asking for God’s assistance doesn’t make us less worthy, it only proves we trust in His wisdom and not our own. He is always ready to hear and help us. Scripture tells us “Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7). Give God your fears and He will give you His strength.
Gracious God, we are grateful that we can come to you when we need help. Show us the path You have for us and keep us in Your care. Amen.