READING: Psalms 68-70, 86, 101
In the prayer of David that is Psalm 86, the psalmist cries out for God’s help. In the midst of that prayer, he recognizes the unique authority and power of God—“there is no one like you among the gods, and there are no works like yours”; indeed, all the nations will bow before this God (Psa 86:8-9). Knowing who this God is, David asked him to teach him his ways, helping him to live a life of truth.
Moreover, he prayed for an “undivided mind” (Psa 86:11), that is, a united mind focused with great reverence on the Lord. His goal was to praise God with all his heart and honor His name forever (Psa 86:12). In the words of one commentator, the psalmist prays that “his heart might be single in its views and purposes; that there might be no distracting purposes; that one great aim might be always before him.”* That prayer ought to be ours as well today.
No diversions or distractions. No idolatrous worries. No ongoing sin. No controlling lusts. No other gods.
Just a complete focus on the Lord, who alone is God (Psa 86:10).
PERSONAL REFLECTION: Is your mind focused entirely on God?
TODAY’S PRAYER: “God, give me an undivided mind.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Psalms 103, 108-110, 122, 124
* Barnes, A. (1870–1872). Notes on the Old Testament: Psalms (Vol. 2, p. 355). Blackie & Son.
