Our Daily Bread: UnshakableExemplo

Strong and Weak

Bend down, O Lord, and hear my prayer; answer me, for I need your help. -Psalm 86:1

When I was struggling with some difficult health issues last year, several people told me I’d discover that I was stronger than I thought. This was encouraging to hear, and I did find it to be true.

Because of what God and I had already been through together over the years, He gave me strength and the ability to press on. But I also learned another lesson quite quickly: I’m weaker than I thought.

Physical problems were new to me, and my trust in God’s goodness and my emotional stability wavered at times. That felt unnerving. Sometimes all I could pray was, “Jesus, You’re wonderful. Jesus, You’re powerful. Please bring healing today.”

The psalmist David recognized that he too needed help (Psalm 86:1). He understood his need to rely on God’s truth (v. 11). He also reminded himself that God is “a God of compassion and mercy . . . filled with unfailing love and faithfulness” (v. 15). He begged God to have mercy on him and to show His strength on his behalf. And he cried out, “Save me” (v. 16).

David was looking for and asking for signs of God’s goodness (v. 17). He was vulnerable with God and talked honestly with Him, and God always proved Himself faithful.

When you learn you’re weaker than you thought, pour out your heart to God by praying Psalm 86. He hears you.

Anne Cetas

During what experience did you discover that you’re weak? How did you experience God’s presence and power?

Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.