Daily Bible Reading – May 2023, God’s Saving Word: FaithSample

May 4

Introduction

Today is being observed as National Day of Prayer. Psalm 85 is a prayer for reconciliation with God. The psalmist recounts God’s blessings and asks God’s forgiveness for the sins of the people. The psalmist promises to listen to God, and envisions a future in which the land will be fruitful; and love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace will prevail.

Scripture Reading

Psalm 85

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 85:11

Human loyalty will reach up from the earth, and God’s righteousness will look down from heaven.

Reflect

Reread verses 1-7. These verses suggest that the psalm was written about the time the people of Israel returned home to Judah from exile in Babylon (after 539 B.C.). After they returned from exile, new problems developed, and the people once again needed to pray for deliverance. Have you ever prayed for God’s deliverance? If so, how did God respond to your prayers? On this National Day of Prayer, for what will you pray today?

Pray

Loving God, forgive me for those times when I have failed to do your will. Help me live according to your ways of peace, justice, and mercy. I thank and praise you for your constant love and saving help. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 86: A prayer for God’s help.