Psalm 143: Asking for Guidance
"The way I was taught to pray," explained Sue, "was to list for God the things I wanted done. I would give God a long list of 'requests' that were really thinly disguised expectations or demands. It amazes me now, but I really felt I knew what everyone needed and that my job was to bring these needs to God's attention. I would decide what needed to be done and God would do it. Sound backward? I think so. I was surprised to discover a humbler way to pray. I learned to say, 'show me your will today and give me the power to carry it out.' I stopped telling God what to do and started to ask for guidance and help. Now I pray with an awareness that I am talking to my Creator, who knows me better than I know me, who loves me more than I love me, and who is personally involved in my life."
Warming Up to God
What fears might keep you from seeking to know and to do God's will?
Read Psalm 143. »
Discovering the Word
- What specifically does the psalmist say he longs for in this text (vv. 1, 7)?
- What does the psalmist fear might happen (vv. 2, 7)?
- Why does the psalmist need God's help (vv. 3-6)?
- The psalmist asks for knowledge of God's will and the power to carry it out. What specifically does he ask for (vv. 8-12)?
- The psalmist reminds God: "I have put my trust in you. . . .To you I lift up my soul. . . .I hide myself in you" (vv. 8-9). What do you think the psalmist is trying to communicate to God?
Applying the Word
- In what area of life do you feel a need for knowledge of God's will?
- What knowledge of God's will have you received, but are hesitant and needing power to carry out?
Responding in Prayer
What guidance would you like to ask God for today?
For Further Study
Knowing God's Will by M. Blaine Smith