THE FIRST VERSE of Psalm 34 always causes me to reflect, for the Lord's praise is not continually in my mouth. Sometimes I am led to repentance -- but always it is my prayer that it would be so, that his praise will be continually in my mouth.

The Psalmist quickly gives a reason why the Lord is to be praised: "I sought the Lord, and he answered me and delivered me from all my fears." Take some time to remember the times you sought the Lord and he answered you, delivering you from all your fears.

Do we forget to cry for help? Tell God your troubles. Intercede for the trouble of others. Let the truth that "the Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit" sink deeply into your spirit. This is the confidence we have when we pray for ourselves and for others