From Everlasting

I appreciate how the Psalms were written and how we can use them for lessons, encouragement, praise, and also as a prayer. Today's devotional and prayer are based on Psalm 90 about how we are finite and limited, along with our need for wisdom contrasted with our God, who is eternal, loving, just, and unchanging. Written in between the italicized verses is a prayer for today, along with a link at the end for the song From Everlasting that I hope you will click on and listen to.

Psalm 90

A prayer of Moses, the man of God.

1 Lord, you have been our dwelling place throughout all generations. 2 Before the mountains were born or you brought forth the whole world, from everlasting to everlasting you are God.

We praise you, Lord, for your faithfulness from generation to generation. You are our security, rest, and refuge. Before the world was created, Lord, you were there and had a plan for me. You are unchanging, eternal, and limitless. Your greatness is unfathomable. We praise you for being our stronghold, strength, and guide today and every day.

3 You turn people back to dust, saying, “Return to dust, you mortals." 4 A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night.

While our life on earth is temporary, may our days be filled with growing to be more like you, fulfilling the purpose you have for our lives, and loving one another as you do. May we have a grateful heart because we know that every moment is held and directed by you. When our lives feel out of control, assure us that you are sovereign.

5 Yet you sweep people away in the sleep of death—they are like the new grass of the morning: 6 In the morning it springs up new, but by evening it is dry and withered.

Help us to remember that there is a meaningful purpose and significance to our brief, fragile life. May we realize ways where we can positively touch the lives of others, not to wait until later but to act today when we feel you nudging us. Prepare us for what you have in store so that we may use our gifts while on earth to honor and glorify you.

7 We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation. 8 You have set our iniquities before you, our secret sins in the light of your presence.

Loving and merciful God, we sin against you every day, by our words, thoughts, and actions. You are all-knowing, and nothing is hidden from you. Search me, Holy Spirit, and convict me of my secret sins and shortcomings. May I have a heart of repentance and gratitude so that I may fully experience the joy of walking with you, and fully appreciate each blessing you give.

9 All our days pass away under your wrath; we finish our years with a moan. 10 Our days may come to seventy years, or eighty if our strength endures; yet the best of them are but trouble and sorrow, for they quickly pass, and we fly away.

Our time here on earth has its challenges and struggles. Pain that seems unbearable and unending. Brokenness that doesn't heal. Trials that push us to the edge. At times we are overwhelmed. Help us to trust in your timing, your perfect plan, and your love for us. Thank you for your protection over us.

11 If only we knew the power of your anger! Your wrath is as great as the fear that is your due.

So many things in this world draw us away from you. We have idols, temptations, and distractions. Thank you for your grace, kindness, and mercy. Thank you for Jesus who stands in our place and takes away our sins.

12 Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.

Give us wisdom, Lord, to face what lies ahead so that each day we grow to know you more and increase our faith. May what I say and do be pleasing to you, and make choices that honor you and lift others up.

13 Relent, Lord! How long will it be? Have compassion on your servants. 14 Satisfy us in the morning with your unfailing love, that we may sing for joy and be glad all our days.

At times, Lord, life is not easy. May we find satisfaction, contentment, and joy in you, and not by chasing after the things of this world. Thank you for your steadfast love and continuous commitment to us, even when we fall short.

15 Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us, for as many years as we have seen trouble. 16 May your deeds be shown to your servants, your splendor to their children.

All powerful and glorious God, help us be joyful through the good and difficult times. Show favor to us, your children, and align our will with yours. May we stand firm in the truth of your Word and your promises that we may look for ways to bring hope and light to a dark world.

17 May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.

Thank you for your loving kindness and compassion, Lord. Please open our eyes and reveal our purpose to focus on what matters and see the needs of others so that we can be your hands and feet to serve those around us. "Complete the work you started in me" (Phil 1:6). AMEN

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3HIhj_KuxXs

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OUR 'SEASONED' BLESSING