Today’s scripture: Psalm 142 (NRSV) (The Message) (KJV) What might God be saying to me?
My thoughts (Steve Adams):
The psalmist seems to be going through an extreme episode of what all of us experience at times:
1) We’re overwhelmed;
2) We open to God in trust;
3) God gives support, perspective, and deliverance.
The trouble is that step number one often lasts a long time and/or recurs. Our souls can become imprisoned, as if we’ve been suddenly trapped in a stuck elevator.
So what can we do when we experience a similar dilemma? In order to answer that question, I’d like to share with you something that helps me tremendously. In the “Notes” feature of my cellphone I have what has developed into a very, very long entry, which I look at almost every morning. Part 1 consists of spiritual nutrients — anything that helps my mind be closer to God.
It starts out with, “Thank you, God, for the gift of this day. The gift of life! Thank you for you!”
I’ve written an ever-increasing number of Bible verses, quotes, and insights that I’ve learned over the years. I’ve also written short entries, capsulizing sermons by Pastor Jeff that have especially impacted me (and there are many). One that often lifts me, and relates to this Psalm, is from a May 2015 sermon titled, “What If I Don’t Have It In Me?” My note reads, “Participate, share in the Spirit – ruach, parakletos, pneuma. Philippians 1 – if there is any fellowship in the spirit.” That reminds me to breathe in the encouragement, comfort, and refreshment of the Spirit when I start to get that trapped-in-an-elevator feeling.
Following this is Part 2, my prayer list, which spiritually connects me with loved ones and others, as well as giving the joyful realization of helping others.
The wonderful aspect of having this kind of note on your phone is that you can easily add to it or change it at any time. And it’s almost always there with you. After all, who doesn’t always have their cellphones with them these days? (If you don’t have a cellphone, then of course this can be put on paper.)
The reason I share this with you is so you can consider if this is something you would like to do. For me, it grounds me and gives me perspective each morning; and it is also a resource I can access during the day, such as during a break at work, or any other time when I’m able to pause for a moment. I couldn’t recommend it more highly!
Thought for the day: We can grab powerful, life-changing spiritual nourishment when circumstances try to overwhelm us.
We encourage you to include a time of prayer with this reading. If you need a place to get started, consider the suggestions on the How to Pray page.