Daily Bible Reading – March 2023, "God’s Saving Word: Prayer"Sample

March 17

Introduction

Today’s psalm is considered a communal lament dating quite possibly back to 722 B.C. following the fall of Samaria (in the northern kingdom of Israel) to the Assyrians (see 2 Kings 17). The psalm expresses a plea to God for the nation’s restoration.

Scripture Reading

Psalm 80

Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 80:19

Bring us back, LORD God Almighty. Show us your mercy, and we will be saved.

Reflect

The psalm opens with a plea for God’s help (verses 1-3), followed by a description of the nation’s plight (verses 4-7) and an allegory of Israel as a vine planted by God (verses 8-13). It concludes with a further plea for God’s help (verses 14-19). Verses 3, 7, and 19 serve as a refrain to the psalm, and the refrain concludes each of the psalm’s major sections. In what way does the refrain express the tone of the entire psalm? What promise is expressed at the conclusion of the psalm (verse 18)? Is this a promise you can claim?

Pray

God of mercy, hear our prayers this day for peace worldwide. Bring healing and restoration to wounded nations, and teach everyone to trust you. Make me an instrument of your peace, and keep me faithful and rooted in your love. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Psalm 84: A psalm celebrating the joy of worship.