God’s Saving Word: Prayer
Introduction
Psalm 126: Today’s reading is a communal psalm of thanksgiving from the “Songs of Ascents” collection. This psalm is in the form of a prayer expressing joy for deliverance from exile and a petition for God’s blessing.
Scripture Reading
A Prayer for Deliverance
126 When the Lord brought us back to Jerusalem,
it was like a dream!
2 How we laughed, how we sang for joy!
Then the other nations said about us,
“The Lord did great things for them.”
3 Indeed he did great things for us;
how happy we were!
4 Lord, make us prosperous again,
just as the rain brings water back to dry riverbeds.
5 Let those who wept as they planted their crops,
gather the harvest with joy!
6 Those who wept as they went out carrying the seed
will come back singing for joy,
as they bring in the harvest.
Today’s Key Verse: Psalm 126:2b
The other nations said about us, “The LORD did great things for them.”
Reflect
Verses 1-3 recall the time of Israel’s return from Babylonian exile (538 B.C.). What is being remembered? What is being asked of God in verses 4 and 5? How many times does the word “joy” appear in this psalm? What will be your song of joy today?
Pray
Sovereign God, I sing for joy because of your mighty deeds. Remind me of all the great things you have done. I thank and praise you for your steadfast love and care. Amen.
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Tomorrow’s Reading
Psalm 127: A psalm of praise for God’s blessings.