Prayer: Assurance of Lovingkindness and Guidance (Psalm 143:8)

Sermon Summary

Pastor David Yan

05 Jan 2025

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David was overwhelmed by circumstances. (v.4)

He appealed to the faithfulness and righteousness of God. (v.1) Effective prayer begins by looking God-ward. Do not look at circumstances. Look to the Lord. Jesus is our high priest. Look to him.

David says “Hear my prayer.” The Lord’s ears are open to words; his heart open to cries; his hand open to deliver. Speak to the Lord God through Jesus. He will receive you for Jesus’ sake.

The psalmist appeals to God’s mercy and not his own goodness. (v.2) In God’s sight no one living is righteous. In his presence we plead mercy not merits.

The psalmist recalls past blessings. (v.5) God rescued ancient Israel with mighty acts. He has blessed the church with mighty revivals. Know church history. Be encouraged by the reviving acts of God. Jesus is unchanging.

The psalmist prays to hear the lovingkindness of the Lord in the morning. (v.8) He seeks assurance of the Lord’s constant love. Hearing comes from the word of God. The ideal time to hear God’s word is in the morning when you are free from distractions. Guard your morning time.

The psalmist prays for the guidance of God that he would know the way he should walk. Difficult days need wise decisions. The Lord guides us by his wisdom. Ask of him for he gives freely and without reproach.

The psalmist prays the Lord to revive him for his name’s sake. The Lord revives his people because they bear his name. The Lord protects his name. Christians, like ancient Israel, carry the name of the Lord. He will not allow his name to be dragged into the mud. Your salvation is assured because the Lord protects his name --- the name you bear. Jesus holds you safely in the palm of his hands. Be assured of this.