This week I begin a four-part series on Psalm 5. Today’s episode covers the first three verses, which assure us that God listens to us when we pray. I like to picture God leaning in, cupping his ear, and giving a welcoming nod as he takes the time to hear my cries and consider my requests.

The obvious intimacy between the author of Psalm 5 and God gives me the confidence to boldly ask God to listen to my own cries and laments. The hope in these verses prompts me to offer up my prayers first thing each morning and wait with expectation that God will answer me.

Longing to Belong: Discovering the Joy of Acceptance is now available for purchase on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com, Walmart.com, Booksamillion.com and Christianbook.com. It’s also available for download to your Kindle or from the Apple store for your iBooks app. Or visit my website to purchase a copy at shawnamariebryant.com

This week's scripture: Psalm 5:1–3