For further reflection:
1. Read Psalm 86:11: "Teach me Your way, O Lord; I will walk in Your truth. Unite my heart to fear Your name."
Why do you think the Psalmist prays to God for help instead of pursuing spiritual growth on his own?
2. Read Psalm 86:15: "But You, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, Slow to anger and abundant in lovingkindness and truth."
What aspects of God are depicted in this verse, and why do these aspects encourage us to pray?
3. In your own life, identify two areas of doubt in God’s character that keep you from talking to him. Then, find two passages in scripture that address these doubts.
Prayer
Psalms: Episode 11
Psalm 86:11–17
More from
Psalms
Trusting God
Psalm 1
For further reflection: 1. Read Psalm 1:1-2: "Blessed is the person who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, And on His Law he meditates day and night." What characteristics define the person who is "blessed"? 2. Read Psalm 1:3-4: "He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season, And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers." This verse describes the existence of someone who trusts in God. Interpreting the metaphor of the tree, how would you describe this person's reality? 3. Choose from one of the three situations and reflect on where you’ve been trusting in yourself rather than God. Ask God to help you trust him in this area. -Something unknown in the future you’re anxious about -A decision you’re having to make -Something that’s causing pain or suffering in your life
Weakness
Psalm 8
For further reflection: 1. Read Psalm 8:2: "From the mouth of infants and nursing babes You have established strength." Why do you think God chooses to work through weak people to put his strength on display? 2. Read John 15:5: “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” This verse tells us that abiding in Christ is what give us strength. What do you think it looks like practically to "abide" in Jesus? 3. Think about an area of weakness being exposed in your life right now. What are three ways in which you could praise God for his strength in this area?