Praying to the God Who Hears Us by Katy MorganSample

Today’s Bible passage is a prayer all about praying! Before you read, start by asking God to speak to you through his word.

1. Read Psalm 138:2-5. What is the person in this prayer saying to God? Here are some answers. Can you match the right verse numbers to each statement?

I will praise you because you are loving.

I hope that kings will praise you.

You have answered my prayers.

2. Read Psalm 138:6. How come we can talk to God even though we can’t see him?

Sometimes God seems far away. But he wants us to talk with him about anything, any time, any place! This psalm tells us how God spoke to people about how to live (that’s what “decree” means) and he answered them when they prayed. God might seem far away but he loves it when we talk to him!

The words “exalted” and “lofty” in verse 6 mean “high up.” God is far beyond us and much bigger than us. That means that he is strong enough to answer our prayers. God is also loving, faithful, and kind. That means he always wants the best for us! It’s the perfect combination. We can pray to him about anything we like, knowing that he will answer in the way that’s best for us.

3. The psalm says, “When I called, you answered me.” Can you think of a time when God has answered a prayer that you’ve made (or a prayer that someone you know has made)?

4. When we are getting ready to pray, why is it helpful to know that God looks on us kindly (v 6)?

5. How could this psalm help us when God doesn’t seem to be answering our prayers in the way we want?

Choose one verse or section from the psalm and use it as the basis of your own prayers.