In this chapter, the psalmist pleads with God three times to hear what he has to say (vs 1-2).

This sounds like me during the times of prolonged struggles. During these time I feel God is not listening because I'm not getting the results I want vs. what God wants. Or I feel God is not listening because I'm not getting the results as quick as I want vs. when God wants them. It's easy to beg and plead when we aren't getting our results as soon as we want them. I wonder sometimes if I sound like a spoiled brat because I'm not getting my way right now!!!!! And my prayers turn into DEMANDING God to respond!

I even find myself wanting to articulate very clearly and precisely and with repetition when I pray. Such prayers are all an example of my impatience and lack of trust in God. It's my way of trying to help God because he doesn't seem to understand the importance and urgency of MY situation.

Four things the psalmist said that act as a reminder to me when I pray:

1. God does REALLY LOVE me (vs 7).

2. God does hear my prayers. All of them (vs 3)!

3. I CAN trust God!  The psalmist trusts in God because he says he is waiting expectantly for his response (vs 3)!

4. Go before the Lord with humility and respect (vs 7).

Dear Lord, thank you that your love is great for me! May I always come before you with humility and respect. Thank you that you hear all of my prayers and that I can trust you to respond. And if your response comes with a delay, help me be patient and to learn all you want me to learn through the struggle.

Amen!