Before the Throne: A 5-Day Devotional on PrayerSample

### The Psalmist: Finding Strength in Times of Need The Book of Psalms is one of my favorites in the Bible. I often go to the psalms in my quiet times to draw my focus to God as they guide me through a time of prayer. The psalmists wrote the very thoughts I feel or want to say but don’t know how to put into words. David and the other psalmists wrote from various situations—praise and worship, discouragement, confession, needing strength and protection, even asking God to deal with their enemies. I can often relate to what they were saying. We all find ourselves in situations when life overwhelms us and we need help. It may be a job loss, financial uncertainty, health issues, family struggles, fear of what tomorrow holds, or losing a loved one. Where do we turn when we find ourselves in need? Scripture tells us to turn to God—go before the throne. He is our help in times of trouble. Psalm 121 is one of the Songs of Ascents. Worshipers sang these songs (Psalms 120–134) as they made their journey up to Jerusalem for the annual feasts. We don’t know who wrote this psalm, but it expresses a prayer for help from God. #### A Time of Reflection What needs or concerns are you facing today? How are you responding to them—trying to handle them on your own or turning to God for help? How does Psalm 121 strengthen you in these hard challenges? #### A Time of Prayer Be honest with God about how you’re feeling. Use Psalm 121 to guide you through a time of prayer. Look to Him for help. Father, thank You that I can look to You for help and know You are there. Thank You that You care about every detail of my life, and You don’t forget about me. Thank You for caring for me and providing what I need.