Psalm 119:171-176 (MSG) - “Let praise cascade off my lips; after all, you’ve taught me the truth about life! And let your promises ring from my tongue; every order you’ve given is right. Put your hand out and steady me since I’ve chosen to live by your counsel. I’m homesick, God, for your salvation; I love it when you show yourself! Invigorate my soul so I can praise you well, use your decrees to put iron in my soul. And should I wander off like a lost sheep-seek me! I’ll recognize the sound of your voice.”

We can see in this passage the psalmist’s deep desires. This is the heart that longs for God, the heart that longs for salvation, and the heart that longs for God’s rescue. This person had a genuine encounter with God (”…I love it when you show yourself!”) and a very real relationship with Him (”Put your hand out and steady me…seek me! I’ll recognize your voice.”). In Christ we also have this reality, and words like these of the psalmist deepen our longings and passion for God’s transforming Presence and power. As we read and respond to these words we find our own hearts being drawn in and being filled with the same passions and intimacy.

Today let’s read and reread this passage a few times, slowly and deeply, aligning our heart, thoughts, and hopes with the words. Then prayerfully reread through this, declaring and asking that each of these expressions become true in your life this week.

-TR