Workday Prayers: Remembering God’s Deliverance

Scripture Reading – Psalm 94:17-18 (NRSV)

If the LORD had not been my help,
+++my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence.
When I thought, “My foot is slipping,”
+++your steadfast love, O LORD, held me up.

Prelude

All of us know what it’s like to go through hard times at work. This is true, by the way, whether we’re talking about paid or unpaid work, and no matter the role we play in our work. There are always seasons of difficulty and anxiety, times when we wake up at night and can’t sleep because of the pressures at work.

Looking back upon those times from a distance, however, we can see how God has been present and helpful, both during those times and afterward. Even if we had to experience failure or injustice, we can see how God has been able to work in all things for good (Romans 8:28). With perspective, therefore, we’re able to echo the words of Psalm 94: “If the LORD had not been my help, my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence.”

Prayer

Gracious God, I think back to difficult times at work, times of great pressure and anxiety, times of anger or sadness, times when I feared I would fail, and times when I did fail. I remember how hard it was to go through such times, and how easy it was to fall into despair.

Yet, as I look back, I can see where you were present with me. And I can see how you have worked in all things for good. You have a way, Lord, of redeeming the worst of situations.

I also remember occasions, Lord, when you helped me. You provided what I needed to get out of a jam. Or you worked in the hearts of those who were making my life difficult. Or you gave me strength and patience I didn’t think I had. You have been so faithful, Lord, so gracious and merciful to me.

There’s no doubt in my mind, gracious God, that I wouldn’t have made it without you. If you hadn’t held me up, I would have fallen utterly. I would have sunk into debilitating despair. I would have been lost. But you, O God, have indeed held me up. You’ve embraced me with your love. You’ve helped me to know that I am secure in you no matter what happens.

Thank you, Lord, for your deliverance. Thank you for your grace. Amen.

Ponder Throughout the Day

Because God is your helper, you’ll be okay.

For Further Reflection

Read all of Psalm 94.

You might also read Psalm 107.

Find all Life for Leaders devotions here. Explore what the Bible has to say about work at the unique website of our partners, the High Calling archive, hosted by the Theology of Work Project. Reflection on today’s Life for Leaders theme can be found here: The God of Vengeance?

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