Daily Devotional for Friday, November 15

David Fellowships with God in Prayer

“Lord, I cry unto thee: make haste unto me; give ear unto my voice, when I cry unto thee. Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice. Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity: and let me not eat of their dainties,” Psalm 141:1-4.

David’s words resonate as a heartfelt plea for guidance and spiritual discernment. The psalmist’s prayer becomes a poignant reflection on the power of words and the desire for a life lived in alignment with God’s will. This plea is not a mere formality but a passionate expression of dependence on the Lord. In our own lives, how often do we find ourselves in need of divine intervention, desiring God’s prompt attention to our prayers?

The psalmist’s supplication continues with a striking metaphor: “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice” (verse 2). Here, David invoked the imagery of incense rising before God, a fragrant offering that symbolized the sweet aroma of a sincere and humble heart. In this visual metaphor, our prayers are not just words; they become a pleasing fragrance in the presence of the Almighty.

David’s prayer took a contemplative turn as he expressed a commitment to guard his words and actions: “Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Incline not my heart to any evil thing, to practise wicked works with men that work iniquity” (verses 3, 4). These verses underscore the importance of self-discipline, and the recognition that our words and deeds have profound spiritual implications.

DAILY REMINDER
As we ponder these verses, let us echo David’s prayer in our own lives.

Steven Ridings