Calling Myself

Read: Psalm 26

Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity. --- Psalm 26:1

The Bible In One Year:
Exodus 31-33
Proverbs 14:1-11

As I was moving my laptop, cell phone, and assorted books and papers from one room to another, the "regular" phone rang. I hurriedly set down my stuff and rushed to answer the call before the answering machine kicked it. "Hello," I said. No reply. I said hello again when I heard rustling, but still no response. So I hung up and went back to my stuff on the floor. When I picked up my cell phone I realized that I had accidentally speed-dialed my home phone number!

I laughed at myself, but then wondered: How often are my prayers more like calling myself than calling on God?

For example, when I am falsely accused, I plead with God for vindication. I want my name cleared and the guilty person held accountable for the harm done to my reputation. But then I get impatient with God and try to vindicate myself. I may as well be praying to myself.

Vindication does not come from self-defensive arguments; it stems from integrity [Ps. 26:1]. It requires that I allow God to examine my mind and heart [v.2] and that I walk in His truth [v.3]. This, of course, requires patient waiting [25:21].

When we call on God, He will help us --- but in His perfect time and in His perfect way. --- Julie Ackerman Link

I prayed: the answer long deferred
Brought not the thing I sought;
He answered better than my plea,
Yes, better than my thought. --- Anon.

THE PURPOSE OF PRAYER IS NOT TO GET WHAT WE WANT, BUT TO BECOME WHAT GOD WANTS.