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1 Be pleased, O God, to deliver me.

O Lord, make haste to help me!

2 Let those be put to shame and confusion

who seek my life.

Let those be turned back and brought to dishonor

who desire to hurt me.

3 Let those who say, “Aha, Aha!”

turn back because of their shame.

4 Let all who seek you

rejoice and be glad in you.

Let those who love your salvation

say evermore, “God is great!”

5 But I am poor and needy;

hasten to me, O God!

You are my help and my deliverer;

O Lord, do not delay!

 

Psalm 70 begins with urgency: “Be pleased, O God, to deliver me. O LORD, make haste to help me!”

That prayer feels close to home right now. Staff departures, unexpected responsibilities, concern for the congregation, and the work of welcoming new people have left me feeling both hopeful and unsettled. I can be relieved about what lies ahead and still feel worn by what it took to get here.

The psalmist gives me permission to bring all of that to God. I don’t have to organize my feelings before I pray. Sometimes the most honest prayer a pastor can offer is simply, “Lord, help me.”

Even in this prayer, there is room for joy: “Let all who seek you rejoice and be glad in you.” I can notice God’s goodness while questions remain. In our faithful preschool teachers who keep showing up, leaders who offer support, a new colleague arriving, and people who quietly remind me they are praying.

I am called to shepherd this congregation, and I need the Shepherd’s care, too. Today, I can take the next faithful step and trust God with what I cannot yet see.

Let us pray: Lord, make haste to help me. Give me patience for difficult conversations, wisdom for decisions, and a gentle heart toward the people in my care. Help me receive the care I need as well. Let me find joy in your presence today. Amen.

Pastor Steve Cauley

pastorsteve@livinglord.org

 

Prayer Concern: Pray for those who are going through life transitions.