Day 11: Psalm 13 - How Long, Lord?
Take a moment to close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Then open your eyes and slowly read and pray today's psalm in the image above.
In the first two verses, the psalmist asks "How long?" four times. He names three sources of distress: his relationship with God, his relationship with himself, and his relationship with his enemy (1-2). Consider which of these your hardships fall into.
In verses 3-4, the psalmist asks God for help in his circumstances. Express your own plea to God for the suffering you're experiencing. In verse 5, the psalmist expresses trust in God because God's love has been unfailing. Tell God about the reasons he has given you to trust him, and conclude your time by praying through the entire psalm.
Reflection Questions
Personal reflection:
Have your troubles extended over a long period of time without relief? Begin your prayer by telling God about these experiences of ongoing suffering.
Community discussion:
What do you see in your past that encourages you about what God will do in your future (5-6)?