In God I Trust

God Instructs the People of God

Listening for God in Changing Times:

Use God's Strength

Psalm 56:1-11

The Message (MSG)

 ^1-4 Take my side, God—I'm getting kicked around, stomped on every day.
   Not a day goes by
      but somebody beats me up;
   They make it their duty
      to beat me up.
   When I get really afraid
      I come to you in trust.
   I'm proud to praise God;
      fearless now, I trust in God.
      What can mere mortals do?

 ^5-6 They don't let up—
      they smear my reputation
      and huddle to plot my collapse.
   They gang up,
      sneak together through the alleys
   To take me by surprise,
      wait their chance to get me.

 ⁷ Pay them back in evil!
      Get angry, God!
      Down with these people!

 ⁸ You've kept track of my every toss and turn
      through the sleepless nights,
   Each tear entered in your ledger,
      each ache written in your book.

 ⁹ If my enemies run away,
      turn tail when I yell at them,
   Then I'll know
      that God is on my side.

 ^10-11 I'm proud to praise God,
      proud to praise God.
   Fearless now, I trust in God;
      what can mere mortals do to me?

For Reflection
The psalmist may not know it but God has already answered his prayers.  "Fearless now," he says, "I trust in God, what can mere mortals do to me?"  You may not outlive your enemies, but God is on your side?  We never fall from the grace of God.

Pray
Pray for unflinching trust in God.  Pray that you have the courage of your faith that propels you through hard times.  Pray for all Christians who suffer, that they may be comforted.