A Psalm and A Prayer
Psalm 38

Psalm 38
[For New Years]

Leader: O Lord, all my longing is known to you; my sighing is not hidden from you.

People: It is for you, O LORD, that I wait. It is you, O Lord my God, who will answer.

Leader: I pray,“Do not let my enemies rejoice over me, those who boast against me when my foot slips.”

People: I confess my iniquity. I am sorry for my sin.

Leader: Do not forsake me, O LORD. O my God, do not be far from me.

People: Make haste to help me, O Lord, my salvation.

Heavenly Father, Your Word meets my every need for spiritual life and understanding. The great men and women of old, who suffered pain and persecution, survived by Your grace and the faith Your loving Spirit inspired in them. Grant us this day the same measure of understanding, faith, commitment, courage, and Spirit-filling that You bestowed on them. As we move into a new year, help us to follow You more nearly, see You more clearly, and love You more dearly day by day. Grant us even now a greater understanding of the Scriptures that we might trust in You and in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ with a full measure of faith, even as we pray in Jesus’ name: “Our Father. . .”