Psalm 61. To the choirmaster: with stringed instruments. Of David.

1 Hear my cry, O God,
listen to my prayer;
2 from the end of the earth I call to you
when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
that is higher than I,
3 for you have been my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy.
4 Let me dwell in your tent forever!
Let me take refuge under the shelter of your wings! Selah
5 For you, O God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
6 Prolong the life of the king;
may his years endure to all generations!
7 May he be enthroned forever before God;
appoint steadfast love and faithfulness to watch over him!
8 So will I ever sing praises to your name,
as I perform my vows day after day.
Psalm 61 (ESV)

David seems to be sinking in this psalm. He says, "Lead me to the rock that is higher than I," because God, our Rock, will lift him up from where he is.

In an effort to personalize Psalm 61, here are some questions to consider:
• When in your past has God been your rock and refuge?
• What was the result of His Presence in your life at that time?
• Where in your life today are you at the end of your rope?
• In what circumstance do you need God to hear your cry?
• Are you dwelling in God's tent right now taking refuge under the shelter of His wings?
• If you haven't been, how can you start?
• Are you singing His praises even in the midst of the circumstances you are in?

As you ponder and answer these questions, take a moment and simply praise Him and list every blessing you can think of and be overwhelmed by realizing how God has been good to you.

May you sense the Provision, the Protection, and the Presence of the Father today. And may you live deeply into your calling as shepherd of the sheep in your life.