I Call On You (Devotional)
Scripture: Psalm 86
Key Verse: "I call on you in the day of my distress, for you will answer me." (Psalm 86:7)
There's an old story about a pastor asked to pray at a Monday night football game in 1974. He thanked God for the "gentle dolphins" and asked protection from the "voracious tigers." It was funny, but it wasn't worship. Prayer isn't entertainment. It's the heart talking to its Maker.
David knew that. He wrote Psalm 86 in a crisis — ruthless men wanted him dead (v. 14). Yet his prayer wasn't panic. It was worship.
Notice three movements in David's prayer.
He asked God to hear him. David was poor and needy, but he called on the Lord anyway, not because he deserved an answer, but because God is "kind and ready to forgive, abounding in faithful love" (vv. 1-7). When life pulls you into distress, you can call on the Lord because of His faithfulness, not your worthiness.
He asked God to teach him. "Teach me your way, Lord, and I will live by your truth" (v. 11). True prayer doesn't just ask God for things — it asks God to shape us. David wanted an undivided mind, a heart set on pleasing God alone (vv. 8-13).
He asked God to help him. "Turn to me and be gracious to me. Give your strength to your servant" (v. 16). David admitted his helplessness and trusted God's helpfulness (vv. 15-17). Prayer isn't a last resort — it's a first response.
Takeaway:
When distress comes, don't wait to get your act together before you pray. Call on the Lord humbly and confidently. He hears the heart that trusts Him, and He answers.
Prayer:
Lord, You are kind and ready to forgive, abounding in faithful love. Teach me Your way, and give me an undivided mind to fear Your name. When I'm in distress, remind me that You hear me. I call on You, for You will answer me. Amen.