JENNY'S PSALM REFLECTIONS: 7 VERSE 1

THIS WEEK’S VERSE IS PSALM PSALM 7 V 1

"O Lord, my God, in you I take refuge."

Background:

In the 7th Psalm, God is described as a refuge to whom we can run in times of stress, carrying heavy burdens or danger. Running to God in difficult times is a sign of faith.

This Psalm came out of a sad experience which David had with Cush, a Benjamite who opposed David. David’s troubles have arisen from actually following God’s way. He knows that God is just, yet his current situation is marked by injustice and unmerited persecution. How can he make sense of this? Yet even in the midst of this distressing situation, he asserts that God is a God of justice. 

When we are experiencing problems, this Psalm highlights that we should examine our own hearts. When you find yourself in a difficult situation, look in the mirror and ask “Father, is there something in my life You are talking to me about?”. Difficult times are an opportunity for growth. It can help to view these situations as a gift, and that then has a knock-on effect on how we act and feel; the dark mood can lift.

Meditation

1. FIND A Relaxing PLACE. 

Find a quiet place inside or outside (weather permitting) or even comfortably curled up in bed!  Sit comfortably but alert if you are in a sitting position– feet flat on the floor, back pushed hard against the back of the chair. Hold a stone or pebble to remind you of God’s presence.

2. Focus on your breathing.

Focus on your breathing. Pay attention to in-breaths and out-breaths. You may think of breathing in God’s life and peace and breathing out any tension.

3. Be aware of your body.

Be aware of your body. Let your aches and pains be there. Rest your hands in your lap ; you don’t need to be doing anything with them now. Rest your feet on the floor; you don’t need to go anywhere. Shrug your shoulders, ease your neck. Take time to become still…

4. Say the verses aloud to yourself

Say the verse aloud to yourself. Read it again slowly, listening. As in this Psalm ,if there is a particular need at the moment, ask the question, “Father, is there something in my life You are talking to me about?”.

5.  Sit quietly

Sit quietly and see whether anything about it strikes you as important for you. Tell God what it is. Ask God for what you need. Make a note of anything you want to remember.

6. Finish with this prayer:

Finish with this prayer: Lord Jesus Christ, move me to examine my heart in the most difficult times and decisions I have to make. Help me as I trust You to do good work in me. Amen.