Praying with Psalm 86 - A Prayer of Grace for Christians

Prayer is the foundation of our Christian life. It is our communication with God, our refuge, our means of receiving God's grace and strength in our lives. Psalm 86 is a beautiful prayer that calls us to God's grace, help and guidance. In this prayer we find words of encouragement and hope, words that remind us that God is our help and protector at all times.

1. The prayer of petition for grace

Psalm 86 begins with a prayer for mercy. "Incline your ear, O LORD, and hear me, for I am afflicted and poor." This first statement expresses the author's state of mind as he seeks God's favor in his life. We can all identify with this, for we all need God's grace in our daily lives.

2. Trusting in God

The psalmist goes on to trust in God: "Keep my soul, for I am godly; save your servant who trusts in you." We can learn to trust God in all circumstances, knowing that he will protect and guide us in everything we do.

3. Calling on God for wisdom

Psalm 86 continues with a prayer for wisdom: "Teach me your way, O Lord; I will walk in your truth; unite my heart to the fear of your name." This request reminds us that we all need God's wisdom to guide us in our choices and decisions.

4. Rejoice in God's goodness

The psalmist rejoices in God's goodness: "But you, Lord, are a merciful and forgiving God, slow to anger and rich in kindness and faithfulness." This statement invites us to reflect on God's goodness in our lives, and to find comfort in his faithfulness and mercy.

5. Trust in God's protection

Psalm 86 ends with an expression of confidence in God's protection: "You, Lord, see me, and know my distress; you take up my cause; do not forsake me, O God of my life!" This reminds us that we are safe under God's protection, no matter what circumstances surround us.

Psalm 86 is a beautiful prayer that calls us to God's grace in our lives. It reminds us of our constant need for God's mercy and wisdom, as well as his goodness and faithfulness in our lives. Whatever challenges we face, we can rest assured that God is our protector, our help and our guide, and that we can always turn to him in prayer. Let us pray with Psalm 86 and let God's grace fill our lives.

Amen!