Day 5: Psalm 31 - Into Your Hands
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.
This psalm holds several expressions of trust: taking refuge in the Lord (1), committing one's spirit into God's hands (5), and declaring "You are my God" (14). Jesus quoted the second of these from the cross. Choose one of these to pray to God as you begin.
The beginning of the psalm describes characteristics and actions of God that form the basis of the psalmist's trust. He also takes a long-term view of his suffering (10). At one point he panicked, feeling cut off from God's sight (22), but he returned to remembering God's provision.
Which parts of this psalm draw you into a broader perspective of God's activity? Thank God for what he has done during your suffering, and conclude by praying through the entire psalm.
Reflection Questions
Personal reflection:
Why do you trust God? Tell God about the reasons you trust him.
Community discussion:
The psalmist had a moment of panic in his suffering (22) before regaining perspective. Have you panicked in the midst of hardship? Were you able to regain perspective, and if so, how?