Teach me thy way, O LORD, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies. (Ps. 27:11, KJV)

The Psalms are a favorite place in Scriptures for many people–me included. Perhaps this is true because they speak so clearly and often so succinctly of our daily lives. We can identify with the emotions expressed. Because frequently the Psalms are brief; they may be helpful when one is full of emotions and low on mental concentration.

Most commentators believe Psalm 27 was written by David.  Certainly David had many days filled with trouble that brought him waves of anxiety.  He was threatened by physical and emotional harm;  pursued by enemies.  The Scriptures show that when David was troubled and needed guidance he turned to God.

When we are anxious about the cares of daily living or the trouble that surrounds us; like David we can seek God’s help and guidance.  When we humbly seek Him, He can show us how to live. He can bring our focus to the peacefulness of His presence whatever the circumstances in which we are living.   God has promised “Even to your old age and gray hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.”  (Isaiah 46:4)

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Then Jacob prayed, “O God of my grandfather Abraham, and God of my father, Isaac – O LORD, you told me, ‘Return to your own land and to your relatives.’ And you promised me, ‘I will treat you kindly.’  I am not worthy of all the unfailing love and faithfulness you have shown to me, your servant. When I left home and crossed the Jordan River, I owned nothing except a walking stick. Now my household fills two large camps!  O LORD, please rescue me from the hand of my brother, Esau. I am afraid that he is coming to attack me, along with my wives and children.  But you promised me, ‘I will surely treat you kindly, and I will multiply your descendants until they become as numerous as the sands along the seashore – too many to count.’”  (Genesis 32:9-12 NLT)

Are you in a place in your life where you don’t know where to turn? Is there a situation that has you feeling backed against a wall and there seems like no escape? Do your problems seem to be multiplying faster than rabbits reproduce?  Maybe God seems very far away and you want to pray but don’t know what to say.

Scripture records such a situation in Genesis chapter 32. Jacob was going to meet his estranged brother Esau. The incoming reports were not promising; indeed they were the opposite! Icy fear filled Jacob’s heart as he pondered the fate of himself and his family. What did Jacob do? How did Jacob pray?

First Jacob acknowledged Jehovah as His God. Jacob submitted himself to God’s authority.

Then Jacob reminded God of His promises. Praying Scripture verses can help our hearts and minds line up with God’s plan.

Jacob recognized his total dependence on God. Jacob had a humble (not demanding) spirit as he poured out his heart to God. He remembered God’s blessings. Some of the most resilient people I have met are those who can see God’s blessings in the middle of the storms of life.

Note that Jacob really shared his emotions with God —he admitted his fear and confusion. He was honest with God about his mental and emotional state.

Lastly Jacob made his request to God. Jacob prayed for God’s deliverance.

What a great prayer!  What an awesome God Who listens to our prayers, cares about us beyond our wildest imaginations and responds to the struggles that are part of our lives here on earth.

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