Teaching Notes

Even before you open your mouth to speak, God is already ready to answer. Can you image that? God so wants to talk to you, that he is waiting for you. (sketch by Joselyn Williams).

Does God Want to Talk to Me?

Psalm 61:1-4 (The Message)

God, listen to me shout, bend an ear to my prayer. When I'm far from anywhere, down to my last gasp, I call out, "Guide me up High Rock Mountain!" You've always given me breathing room, a place to get away from it all, A lifetime pass to your safe-house, an open invitation as your guest. You've always taken me seriously, God, made me welcome among those who know and love you.



Notes: This psalm is one of seeking help from God. The writer (David) says listen to my shouts (cries in the NIV version), and give your ears to my prayers. The writer is in a time of despair and is seeking God to lift them from their troubles to a place of safety.



Question: What do you think the writer means by "you've always taken me seriously"? (The NIV version reads: "For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe.")



Answer: The writer is acknowledging the fact that God has never ignored his prayers. God has listened to his request for help and he has helped. He has become to David, what David has needed. When he needed him to protect, he protected. When he needed comfort, he comforted him. This is true for you and I. God takes your prayers seriously. He does not dismiss them nor does he ignore them. That is a comfort to know that God does want to talk to you as well as answer with what you need from him.



Prayer: Today, Lord I need you. I need you to lend your ear to my request. Help lift me from where I am, to where you are. Help me to always listen to you when you speak to my heart.