Today's psalms (read Psalm 137-142) reflect the roller coaster of my emotions. What a comfort to know that I am not alone!

• Psalm 137 – An “imprecatory psalm” calling on God to defeat the enemy who has defeated us. In times of discouragement, we are not alone as we cry out, “Remember, O LORD!” To understand the gruesome nature of this prayer, imagine you were living through the worst horrors of war. After you have seen your home destroyed by drones and your loved ones die, you may pray like the psalmist, that your enemies would experience that same horror in judgment from God. 
• Psalm 138 – A psalm of rejoicing that our God does hear!
• Psalm 139 – A psalm for meditation when I cannot sleep. You know all about me. You are always present. In love you guide my life. Notice that all three “omni” characteristics of God are applied to us. First, God’s omniscience – he knows everything about me. He is never surprised by my sin and already has had his Son atone for it. Secondly, God’s omnipresence – no matter where I am and how dark the circumstances, my Savior is right there with me and can clearly see the way out. Thirdly, God’s omnipotence – the God who used his power to create me will use his power to sustain and help me.  
• Psalm 140 – When I am afraid, “Rescue me, LORD!”
• Psalm 141 – When I see the power of my own sinful heart, “hear me when I call.”
• Psalm 142 – When I feel all alone, like David hiding in the cave while King Saul is outside seeking his life, “I cry to you, LORD; I say, ‘You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living.’”

Our New Testament lesson (read 1 Corinthians 6:12-7-9 here) deals with the issue of sexual relationships in a culture very similar to ours.

Is sex like food? A desire you simply must fulfill? Corinthian culture and our culture say, “Yes.”

Paul speaks frankly into that culture and challenges us to see our sexuality is to be part of the way we honor our God. “We are not our own. We were bought with a price. Therefore, let us honor God with our bodies.” 

Prayer: Dear Father in heaven, hear us as we cry out to you in joy, in sorrow, in fear, and in despair. Lord Jesus, help us remember how precious we are to you. We were bought at the price of your own death. Holy Spirit, give us strength to resist temptations and honor you in every area of our lives. Amen.