Hear my cry, O God; listen to my prayer. 2 From the ends of the earth I call to you, I call as my heart grows faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I. 3 For you have been my refuge, a strong tower against the foe. 4 I long to dwell in your tent forever and take refuge in the shelter of your wings. Selah 5 For you have heard my vows, O God; you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.

While it is wonderful to have the opportunity to be part of a physical family that serves God, this is not the most important heritage one can have. To be raised by parents who fear God and live for him does afford one great privileges along with tremendous responsibility. What is even more important is that we belong to the family of God. What greater heritage could one claim that to be a son or daughter of the ruler of the entire universe? What greater inheritance could one imagine than what is waiting for each person who belongs to the family of God?

It is with this thought in mind that we can face each day with its problems, trials, pain and hardship with complete confidence. We know that our Father is totally in control and that he will never allow us to face more than we can handle. In fact, he allows just enough to be put on us to draw us closer to him and to deepen and strengthen our faith in his providence. It is thru these situations in our lives that we are being prepared to live with him in eternity. Paul tells us that the worst problems we ever face cannot begin to compare with the glory of heaven with our Lord. So, no matter where I am or what I am doing, I can go to my Father and talk to him with complete assurance that he will listen to me.

As a teenager, I once tried to talk to my Dad who was busy at work. I would go into his office and wait but he just had too much going to stop and talk to me. I finally gave up waiting, went across the street and called him on a pay phone (before cell phones). When he answered, he asked why I was calling him instead of just coming into his office. I told him I did but he was too busy to talk. He apologized, stopped and talked. Our heavenly Father is never so busy that he does not have time to listen with his undivided attention and to respond to our every need. It may be just a word or it may be a lengthy conversation but God wants to hear from us.

O God, it is with thanksgiving that I come to you with the assurance that you will hear and respond to me. I realize that I have not right on my own to even approach you but praise you that thru your Son and my brother, Jesus, I can come into your presence. Please strengthen my faith, give me wisdom, and multiply the love in my heart as I allow your Spirit to work in me. I pray in the name of Jesus.

May God bless each of us as we live for him.