May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Psalm 19:14
Ever watch a pastor pray before he begins his sermon? He may be praying the verse above. All week long the pastor has studied, wrestled with and meditated upon a text of Holy Scripture. Then the writing and rewriting of the manuscript or outline takes place. Finally, the day comes for the pastor to proclaim the word of God to the flock. As he looks out at the people who have gathered, he recognizes those who have suffered disappointment, who struggle with destructive habits, who are going through times of testing and doubt. So the pastor prays this psalm verse. It's what all pastors want - that their words would proclaim the forgiveness, salvation and peace that only
God can give. And that God would be pleased with their meditation and preaching.
But this verse is not just for pastors. It serves as an excellent prayer for every believer in Christ Jesus. We all want God's Words on our lips. Who knows when we might be able to speak His Word of encouragement to someone who has lost a job, or speak His Word of comfort to a friend awaiting test results from a doctor, or speak His Word of compassion to a church member who is overwhelmed with the details of daily life.
We can speak of our God, our Rock, our strength. Remember Jesus' Word to the apostle Paul? "My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is made perfect in weakness." We can speak of God our Redeemer, our Savior. Remember the "new song" of the Saints in heaven? "You (Jesus) are worthy to take the scroll and to open its seals, because You were slain, and with Your blood You purchased men for God...."
As you meditate upon God's Word to you in the Psalms, look for those verses that you can place on your lips and speak to others. God bless your speaking this day!
