Study 92

Text: Psalm 25

LEARNING HOW TO SUSTAIN A CONSISTENT PRAYER-LIFE

One of the best expressions of a genuinely strong faith in the Lord is found in our prayer life. Many are unfortunately unable to sustain a consistent prayer life. Let us consider how David was able to sustain a consistent prayer life.

“Turn Yourself to me, and have mercy on me,
For I am desolate and afflicted.
The troubles of my heart have enlarged;
Bring me out of my distresses!
Look on my affliction and my pain,
And forgive all my sins.”
Psalm 25:16-18  

1. Praying is not whining!

This text must not give us the impression that David was a whiner He was anything but that! He was a warrior-king. He led his men into battle personally! He cannot be charged with being a whining wimp!

2. Praying is admitting human limitations

David knew his limits. He knew just how much strength he possessed! As he assessed his personal strength, he knew that the circumstances he was in far exceeded his human strength! In his prayer, he freely admitted that he could do so much and no more!

3. Praying is pouring out the heart to God

We are allowed to pour out our heart to God in prayer! In this outpouring, David highlighted he predicament he found himself faced with.

a) Desolation

b) Affliction

c) Enlargement of the troubles

d) Pain

e) Sins

There was no mincing of the very real need for God’s hand to intervene in this set of circumstances! David found special release in prayer!

A CHALLENGE TO OPEN OURSELVES UP TO GOD IN PRAYER

Can we say that we are as candid and open to God in prayer as David obviously was? If we are ever to find consistency and depth in prayer, we will have to learn to open our hearts far more candidly to God when we pray.

~ Pastor Charlie Tan ~

Released 11th September 2005, © Bethany Independent-Presbyterian Church, Singapore