HEALING
He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.
Psalm 147:3 (ESV)
In Psalm 147, the author goes back and forth between praising two of God's characteristics: His power as the Creator of the world and His relational nature as the God of Israel. In our relationship with God, some of us might struggle to see just how intimate and personal He is to each one of us.
God is described as providing healing to the brokenhearted. As a husband who might not be as emotionally intuitive as my wife, I often struggle just to be present and listen to her heart. My instinct is to jump in and fix things. But in my well-intentioned desire to help, I can sometimes leave her feeling disconnected when all she wants is to share her struggles with me.
While I might be one of the least touchy-feely guys I know, it's crucial for us to take the time to share and listen to each other. So, here's a challenge: share one thing you feel today with your spouse or with a friend if you're not married. Then, ask them to share their heart with you. It might initially feel awkward, especially if this isn't your strong suit. But trust that God wants to use your weaknesses to show His power!
APPLICATION: Share one thing you are feeling today with your spouse and ask them to share in return. Listen to them intently. Let the conversation flow as the Lord leads you.
PRAYER: Lord, thank You for being attentive to what I really need! Thank You that You are never in a hurry to end a conversation with me. Please help me be more attentive to those in my path today, especially those closest to me. Amen.
“… Our Father in heaven…” Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
- What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
“… may Your name be kept holy.” Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
- What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
“May Your Kingdom come soon.” Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
- Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
“Give us today the food we need,” Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
- Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I’m around today?
“and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us” Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
- Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
“And don’t let us yield to temptation…” Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
- Is there anywhere I’m vulnerable to temptation?