Jan 22 Daily Rhythm

Morning
Psalm 79:1-6

O God, the nations have come into your inheritance; they have defiled your holy temple; they have laid Jerusalem in ruins. They have given the bodies of your servants to the birds of the heavens for food, the flesh of your faithful to the beasts of the earth. They have poured out their blood like water all around Jerusalem, and there was no one to bury them. We have become a taunt to our neighbors, mocked and derided by those around us. How long, O LORD? Will you be angry forever? Will your jealousy burn like fire? Pour out your anger on the nations that do not know you, and on the kingdoms that do not call upon your name!

Oh God, when you allowed your city Jerusalem to be ravaged and razed, your people suffered. Your people always suffer for turning away from you as our first and greatest hope. May we be faithful to you. God, do not allow us to become hopelessly broken. Allow our hearts to burn with love for you and a desire for you. Allow our emotions to lead us, but only after you grow our emotions for you!

Afternoon
Psalm 79:7-9

For they have devoured Jacob and laid waste his habitation. Do not remember against us our former iniquities; let your compassion come speedily to meet us, for we are brought very low. Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of your name; deliver us, and atone for our sins, for your name’s sake!

God, allow grief for our own sin to bring us low. Cause us to cry out for mercy and forgiveness. For the sake of your own glory we ask that you would heal our hearts and call us forth after you.

Evening
Psalm 79:10-13

Why should the nations say, “Where is their God?” Let the avenging of the outpoured blood of your servants be known among the nations before our eyes! Let the groans of the prisoners come before you; according to your great power, preserve those doomed to die! Return sevenfold into the alap of our neighbors the taunts with which they have taunted you, O Lord! But we your people, the sheep of your pasture, will give thanks to you forever; from generation to generation we will recount your praise.

Oh Father, you are so very good. Even though we have undoubtedly sinned against you, even though we have hearts that stray. We know you never abandon your people. Thank you that even though we are not worthy of you, you have made us worthy by the blood of Jesus. Thank you that we have the privilege and great hope of singing your glories and your praises. Remind us of your goodness tonight!