Invigorate my soul so I can praise you well,
use your decrees to put iron in my soul.
And should I wander off like a lost sheep—seek me!
I’ll recognize the sound of your voice.
Psalm 119:175-176
Observation: The tone of the writer changes from that of asking the Lord for protection from external forces, to internal guidance for his soul and his faith. He asks that his soul be invigorated, motivated to even higher levels of praising Yahweh. He desires that his soul be strengthened like iron. And, if in any of this his soul - his attention, devotion, praises, prayer-life - should wander away from its central focus on the Lord, may the Lord come get him. Like the shepherd, may the Lord seek him as a sheep, and he will respond to the shepherd's voice.
Application: While this psalm often addresses issues I've had in my life about attacks and struggles in life, this section mirrors my current situation. I am lost. My soul wanders, uninvigorated and unmotivated, without strength and resolve, missing the point about the Lord's decrees and guidance. I am not praising him well, connecting with him daily, praying to him regularly.
My soul needs my shepherd.
Prayer: Lord, I am only your lost and hurting sheep. I am wandering aimlessly, and as I do I only wish to hear your voice. Yes, I will listen for your voice, and I will go where you tell me. I may not be where I should be, and I may not even know where I am let alone where I am going, but I cannot be lost if you are with me. Please call me. Please take my hand and lead me, or just hug me here and give me comfort while we are standing still. However, in all of this, whether moving or waiting, please Lord invigorate my soul. May I praise you well. May my soul be strong in your teachings. Amen, and amen.
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