Psalm 3

Read Psalm 3.

In verses one and two David expresses what's happening around him.  He sees and hears the overwhelming hordes.  Now He has a choice to make.  Will he meditate upon their bad news, become intimidated, and attempt things in his own strength?  Will he turn to God? 

David chooses the second.  In the rest of the psalm he challenges a dark statement that got back to him:  "There is no help for him in God."

So David begins talking to God about the situation, about Who God is, and about what God does. Then David takes a nap.  When he wakes, he is reinvigorated.

David reminded himself or was reminded by God that certain things hadn't changed.  God was still the . . .

• Shield, Glory, Lifter (v. 3).
• One who hears and answers prayer (v. 4).
• Sustainer (v. 5).
• Security, Confidence, Remover of fear (v. 6).
• Savior, Deliverer (v. 7).
• Source of blessing (v. 8).

It is okay to tell God what He already knows about you, your situation and those causing it.  Be real.  Cry unto God.  Away with sterile prayers that only sound good!  Give your prayers some umph!  Then rest. Wait for God to change things.  Review what is true and good about God more than you review the misery of your situation.

Three Things Needed For Self-Care (Mt. 14:22-23)

Read Matthew 14:22-23.

Three Things Needed For Self-Care:

1. Separation from the crowd (small or large as it might be),  The crowd, on its own, won't separate from you.  You have to separate from the crowd.  Without being rude, you have to send the crowd away.  Remember, Jesus had just fed 5,000 plus.  When others are full, you become empty.  It is your responsibility to get refilled.
2. Seclusion.  Go to a place no one else is present or knows you will frequent.  Make the effort.  Shut out all distractions.  Withdraw.  Enjoy the quiet.  Only turn on your cell phone if you need to make an emergency call.
3. Solitude.  Seclusion has to do with location.  Solitude has to do with you.  Just you, no one else with you.  Some people are scared to be alone with themselves.