God, Jealous?

(Ezk 23:25)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May our hearts burn hot & unapologetically against sin (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭23:25). #TurnNowToGod #Repent #SpeakTheTruth #StandAgainstSin #PrayForAmerica

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel 23:22-34 is a repetition of God‘s judgment on Judah. She followed the same detestable path as Israel. But verse 25 reveals God‘s state of mind – “JEALOUS”.

Years ago I heard a preacher say, “Some say the God of the Old Testament is a God of wrath; the God of the New Testament is a God of love. Not so,” he said. “He is always a God of love provoked by his adulteress people to jealousy.“ [read Exodus 20:5,6]

The question for me is, do I identify with God over sin (does it break my heart?) or am I just comfortable with sin all around me? Lord, may I have a heart that burns for righteousness.

Twisted Sisters (Pt2): Righteous Beware

(Ezk 23:11-21)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

WALK consistently in CLOSE harmony with God (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭23:11-21). #TurnNowToGod #Repent #LetTheRighteousBeware

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Ezekiel does not paint a pretty picture of Judah (the younger sister in this parable). It is downright lude. Even though Judah saw the depravity and destruction of Israel (older sister), she dove deeply into even greater idolatry with even more lust than her “sister”.

Her alliance with Assyria brought severe spiritual degradation. Other alliances with Babylon and Egypt further degraded her. God, in his extreme disgust at her depravity, turned away from her, rejected her. The imagery is unimaginable. May the righteous beware. I know that on any given day, I may be just as vulnerable to a fall.

Lord, may there never be any daylight in the relationship between you and me.

Twisted Sisters (Pt1)

(Ezk 23:5-10)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May we seek God while we still may (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭23:5-10). #TurnNowToGod #Repent #AmericaRepent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

In the parable of the two sisters, Ohola, the older (representing the northern Kingdom of Israel) went whoring after the Assyrian might in an alliance. In her twisted thinking, Israel left her dependence on Jehovah God for victory and prosperity to unite with the godless Assyrians.

Israel also served/worshiped Assyrian gods. She traded the truth for a twisted lie. God abandon her to her sin filled ways (as in Rom 1:24-26). Israel was stripped of her national identity and found herself in rubbles.* Lord, may I seek you while the seeking is still possible (Isa 55:6,7).

_________

* Hosea also condemned Israel for her adulterous ways and prophesied her downfall: Hosea 5:8-15; 7:11,12 & 8:8-10.

A Disloyal Passion

(Ezk 23:1-4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Turn your heart’s love/loyalty to God alone (‭‭Ezk‬ ‭23:1-4). #TurnNowToGod #Repent

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This is the second of three oracles by Ezekiel. It is spoken by God as a parable. It regards to two sisters, both of whom had gone the way of prostitution in Egypt. The one named Ahola (the older), represented Samaria (capital citi of the northern kingdom, Israel). The second named Ohlibah, represented Jerusalem (capital city of the southern kingdom, Judah).

The two sisters’ Origen: their story begins in Egypt, the place from which God delivered them (his people) out of slavery. These two sisters showed their unfaithful and ungrateful heart towards God by their disloyal passion for idolatry.* Lord, reveal any idolatrous, adulterous way in me, that I may turn from it in loyal love to you.

_____

* For a full explanation of the disloyal idolatry of these two sisters (God’s people) in Egypt, read Ezekiel 20.

Reaping A Whirlwind

(Jer 30:23,24; 3:1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May our actions reap honor and not judgment (Jer 30:23,24 & 31:1). #ComeCleanWithGod #RepentTowardsGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Jeremiah posts this brief reminder that God‘s judgment will be like a driving whirlwind on the heads of the wicked. It will not stop until God has finished what he planned. Eventually, all will thoroughly understand God‘s actions and intentions.

Nevertheless, Israel, well once again lay claim to honor towards Jehovah God, and he will lay claim to them. Reconciliation and restoration will be the end result. Israel will once again flourish. Lord, may my daily actions reap honor and not a whirlwind of judgment.

HOPE THAT SECURES

(Psm 43:1-5)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Turn quickly to God when lonely or discouraged (‭‭Psm‬ ‭43:1-5). #TurnNowToGod #GodOurHope

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

[Psalm 43 is actually a part of Psalm 42 in Hebrew manuscripts. It is also a stand alone Psalm (note 42:5,11 & 43:5). The theme in both psalms are HOPE in times of discouragement and loneliness]

The Psalmist declares it is HOPE in God that assures, rescues and secures him in times of discouragement, loneliness and attacks from enemies.

His questions are sincere and thoughtful. They clarify his values and give him strength in times of grief. He looks to the light of God‘s truth, his source of joy. His HOPE is firmly in God. Lord, may my heart turn quickly to you in times of discouragement.

Self-talk, Questions & God

(Psm 42:9-11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Ask of God sincere, thoughtful and reflective questions (‭‭Psalms‬ ‭42‬:‭9-11). #GotQuestions #AskGod #SearchYourHeart

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The Psalmist is here doing a fair amount of self-talk. He is making an honest appraisal of his life circumstances. On the surface it feels like he is questioning God. But it is only his enemy that insolently asks, “Where is your God?“, and that pains the Psalmist (v10).

The questions the Psalmist asks here are mostly of himself; “Why am I discouraged…sad?” (V5,11 & 43:5). His questions are reflective, thought provoking and sincere.

These questions move him to action, discovery and further intimacy with God. They clarify his values. “I put my hope in God.”

Lord, may my questions lead me further into an intimate relationship with you.

A Song For The Dark Nights

(Psm 42:6-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Listen for God’s song in the desperate night watches (‭‭Psalms‬ ‭42‬:‭6‬-‭8‬ ‬‬). #TurnNowToGod #GodIsYourSong

“Raging seas and surging tides sweep over me” (Psm‬ ‭42‬:‭7‬)

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

How easy it is to become discouraged. At times we, like the Psalmist, might feel like troubles just sweep over us. They are like wave after wave that washes over us. One becomes frantic and breathless, trying to survive the surging seas of troubles.

“But,“ by God’s grace and unfailing love I pray in the night watches, and though my loss is great, he gives me new life. I am able to rise above the maelstrom and receive the gift of God‘s beautiful song through each dark night.

Lord, even now I sit in the night watch and meditate on your goodness; I hear your song.

Hope Rests In God

(Psm 42:1-3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Turn fully towards the face of God (Psm 42:3-5). #PraiseTheLord #SeekGodWithAWholeHeart #HopeAloneInGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

It is disheartening when you feel attacked by those who would kick you while you’re down, make light of your frailties or mishaps. Malevolent marauders may come from places you least expect.

I have been the target of such senseless accusations. It’s hard. But then I recalled the joys of better days. I remembered when there was celebration of victories won. I recalled the joys of the movements of God in revival. I can strengthen my discouraged heart with hope in God.

I will praise the Lord again, my Savior and my God. Lord, may I look to the hills, the great mount of God, from whence comes my help.

“Obey Your Thirst”

(Psm 42:1-3a)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May your heart thirst for God; get there quick as you can (Psm 42:1-3a). #SeekGodWithAWholeHeart#ObeyYourThirst #ThirstyForGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

There is an ad for a power drink that beckons athletes to, “Obey Your Thirst“. It promotes an energy drink that satisfies the thirst and refreshes nutrients in the body. The Psalmist had said this ages ago. “As a deer pants after water so my heart thirsts for God.“

The spirit of the Psalmist within him longs for that “living water“ that only God can give. This living water refreshes the soul and renews the spirit of man like no other. Jesus tells us that he is that living water (Jhn 4:14; 7:37–38). The Psalmist can’t get to God soon enough.

Lord, I bring my old broken and thirsty heart to you today.

GODLY SORROW

(Psm 38:15-22)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Do not delay to confess sin and live (Psm 38:15-22). #ConfessSin #GodlySorrow #ReturnToGod #Repentence

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

It is clear that the Psalmist models for me, the importance of my immediate and sincere confession of sin. He expresses a deep sorrow for sin committed (2Co 7:10). But he has ignored his sin until he is at the point of total collapse of his health and life. He wishes for, prays for, God to hurry up and save him.

Of course, God always forgives the repentant sinner, but oh how much better it would be if we would come sooner than later to God. How much hurt, pain and anguish would be avoided? My repentance clears the way for God to move. Lord, may my life be marked by a “godly sorrow” for sin.

Cleared Conscience

(Psm 38:12-20)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Surrender, repent and let God clear your conscience (Psm 38:12-20). #UnconfessedSin #Repentence #LeanInToGod #ClearYourConscience #LetGodFightYourBattle

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When, in my heart, I know I have sinned, and my conscience has called out to God for forgiveness, he will not disappoint. Yet, the residual effects of my sin may continue to cause me pain. No one knows the agony of soul I feel for my sin and its results, but God.

My sin has taught me that I deserve nothing. But those who wish to do me harm, “kick me while I’m down“, gloat over me. I call upon God to fight my battle for exoneration (Exo 14:14). Only God‘s grace can sustain me through the process of repentance (1Jn 3:19-21).

Lord, may the repentance in this old sentry produce a clear conscience before you.

Collateral Damage

(Psm 38:9-11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Stay alert to the effects of unconfessed sin (Psm 38:9-12). #UnconfessedSin

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

I see the effects of unconfessed sin on me personally (vv1-8). But I do not exist in a vacuum. The effects of my unconfessed sin radiates out. Collateral Damage: First, my sin is always open to the Lord. My broken condition (spiritually, emotionally, mentally and physically) is laid bare before God.

Second, my condition will eventually cause friends and family to avoid me. Unconfessed sin is like a disease. No one wants what I’ve got.

Finally, my enemies, which includes Satan, will use my condition to torment and accuse me. Satan and all his minions would ruin me if they could.

Wish I could say, “It ain’t so.“ But, unfortunately it is. So, I need to ruminate on the collateral damage of my unconfessed sin. I long for something better. Lord, may it be so.

SIGNS

(Psm 38:1-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Pay attention to SIGNS of unconfessed sin (Psm 38:1-8). #UnconfessedSin #SourcesOfPain

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The psalmist here acknowledges his sin up front. He owns it. But he also seeks mercy from God. Sin has caused the psalmist much physical sickness. His guilt/shame is an emotional burden. He regards his sin as foolish. It has caused him physical and emotional pain and grief. It has manifested itself in SIGNS of fever, ill-health, and distress of soul.

Not every health problem is caused by sin. But when I violate God‘s moral code and persist in hiding it, it may be accompanied by SIGNS of anxiety, depression, and isolation as a result. Confessing sin and clearing the conscience will lead to peace with God and man. These are facts that have been proven across many cultures.

Lord, may I be alert of any physical SIGNS revealing unconfessed sin in my life.

Willing Surrender

(Psm 32:9-11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Willingly surrender to God‘s direction (Psm 32:9-11). #WillingSurrender #FollowTheLord #ListenToGod

Verse eight promises guidance from the Lord. Here is some of that guidance. Don’t be unwilling or too stubborn to be tamed or moved by God towards a willing spirit.

The horse and the mule can be ornery by nature, brought under control only by brute force or fear. But man Should not be the same. He can reason and has a conscience. Men are not meant to be governed in such a corporeal manner.

“Men should allow themselves to be controlled by appeals [from God] to their moral conscience. Man is of a higher [moral] nature and should allow themselves to be governed by it.“*

Lord, may I willingly surrender to God’s leadership & direction

_________

* Barnes Notes on the Old Testament, Pg. 276.

Time is Now

(Psm 32:6-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Turn quickly to God in repentance & surrender (Psm 32:6-8). #GoodConscience #ConfessSin #RepentTowardsGod

Churchman (1914-2004): renown American philosopher; man of faith

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The time to repent of sin is now. Keep short accounts with God. Don’t wait until some calamitous event drives you to God. To God is the place we need to go. Seek God now while he may be found (Isa 55:6,7).

God can calm the noisy waters of trouble and instead, surround us in victorious songs. Conceal sin and suffer; confess and prosper (Pro 28:13). God will turn us back on the right path for our lives. From there, he promises to guide us, advise and watch over us.

Lord, lead my oft wayward heart quickly to you in repentance and surrender.

The Best Joy

(Psm 32:1-5)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Confess your sin; know the joy of forgiveness (Psm 32:1-5). #GoodConscience #ConfessSin #RepentTowardsGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When I sin egregiously against another I hope to be forgiven. Yet even that forgiveness may not relieve the guilt I feel, or remove the sin from the mind of the offended. BUT God…forgives my sin, he puts it out of his sight and memory and he clears my conscience of all guilt.

When I refuse to confess* my sin, it weighs me down. It turns against me – consequences/discipline will break me down and sap my strength. When I confess* my sin and expose my guilt, God is faithful to forgive, forget and free me of all guilt (see also Rom 4:4-8; 1Jn 1:9,10). I am able to face the truth and any lingering consequences of sin.

Lord, may my heart confess sin and know the joy of forgiveness.

______

* To confess sin is to agree with God about my rebellion against him.

Good Testimony of Conscience

(Psm 25:16-22)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Make certain a clear conscience before God and man (Psm 25:16-22). #GoodConscience #CallUponGod

“I always strive to have a clear conscience toward God and men.” (Acts‬ ‭24‬:‭16‬)

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This prayer closes as it began (v1,2). The deep distress of soul reaches for divine favor and mercy. Things have gone from bad to worse in the life of the psalmist. The difficulty, sorrow and distress of spirit is heavy upon him. He relies upon his good testimony of conscience. He has done nothing to provoke his adversary.

The psalmist closes seeking remedy and relief from those who wish to do him harm. But God knows the truth. His trust and hope is in God alone. He calls upon God to redeem him from his troubles. At times, only I alone and God know the motivations of my heart and actions. Lord, may I always have a clear conscience toward God and man.

Life Purpose

(Psm 25:11-15)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Make this be your one purpose, to please God alone (Psm 25:11-15). #HonorGod #PleaseGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Here is a powerful promise of God. Those who reverence, honor God, will be shown the path they should choose. They will live in prosperity [peace, health, well-being; security and abundance].

Their children will inherit a good fortune. The Lord will be their friend and clearly teach them his covenant. A life characteristic of such a one is that his/her eyes are always on the Lord.

The Lord will steer them clear of any enemy, adversary or temptation.

Lord, may it ever be my one purpose in life to please you alone.

Exalted In Forgiveness

(Psm 25:11)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Revere God in humility and worship (Psm 25:11). #GodHighAndLiftedUp #RevereGod #Forgiveness

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God is honored by forgiving my sin because forgiveness is centered in his character, not mine. Who is the bigger person in forgiveness? Ans: The one who forgives! Isaiah 43:25 says, “I blot out transgressions for my own sake.“

Forgiveness glorifies God because it reveals his divine nature. When Jesus died on the cross, his death was payment for all our sin (Exo 23:7; Nah 1:3; Rom 1:18; Isa 53:10). I am justified, made right with and reconciled to God. Only God can do this. Lord, I am humbled and acknowledge you as Lord and friend.

The Path

(Psm 25:8-10)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Remain faithful to follow the path God sets you upon (Psm 25:8-10). #FollowGod #ThePath #TheWayOfTruth

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God can be counted upon to do what is right. If I go astray, he shows me the way back to his path. The humble he will guide. He will lead them on his path for them.

If I am faithful, keep covenant with God and obey his commands, I can count on him to continue to guide me in mercy and truth. Why would I not give myself wholeheartedly to following my Lord?

Lord, may I remain walking in THE PATH you have laid out for me; correct me when I stray.

Staying Open

(Psm 25:4-7)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Maintain an open, seeking heart towards God (Psm 25:4-7). #StayOpenToGod #ListenToGod #SeekGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The first step in gaining knowledge and wisdom is to have a seeking heart. I must desire it and be willing to receive it. God’s word is opened to me. That is David as he writes, “Show me Lord, point out my path and lead me daily in it.“

Further, the psalmist explains, this is how I know God‘s unfailing love; I have seen it at work in the past. He prays, remember me in my seeking, and not as I was, in my rebellious youth. Boy, do I need a good dose of that. I am glad that in Christ, God does remember my sin. How merciful is God!

Lord, may I have an open, seeking heart towards your will in my life.

In God We Trust

(Psm 25:2,3)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Look for God in every circumstance (Psm 25:2,3). #FullyRelyOnGod #AlwaysTrustGod #NoDisappointmentWithGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

Trust 100% in God. He is not an aloof and distant God, detached from the realities of life. He is “my God.“ He is personal. He knows my griefs and he knows my moments of exuberant joy. He joins me in those moments. That is the God in whom I trust.

My enemies, those things that tempt my soul, will go down in the flames of disgrace and dishonor. But those who trust in God will not be disappointed (Psm 22:5; Rom 5:5; 9:33; 10:11). Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but our God delivers us from them all, now and/or eternally.*

Lord, I am thankful for your deliverance from all manner of life challenges. The longer I live, the more I see.

_______

* Psm 34:19

I Surrender

(Psm 25:1)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Surrender all to Christ today (Psm 25:1). #ISurrenderAll #JesusIsLord

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

“Oh Lord, I give my life to you.“ These words impact my heart like the bat that strikes a home-run ball out of the park. December 28, 1968, a young 21 year-old recruit, standing sentry in a guard tower over the Saigon River, surrendered to God. *

After many years of running from God, this, now 80-year-old sentry, laid down his weapons of this world and surrendered his life to the Lordship of Christ. I never looked back; been serving Christ now these 58 years. I would not change anything.

Lord, thank you for relentlessly pursuing this old sentry, then persistently leading me.

__________

Read full testimony this blog: https://theprayersentry.com/2023/03/23/window-of-opportunity/

Hale The Victor

(Psm 20:6-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May you surround and be surrounded by others in prayer (Psm 20:1-5: ). #America #Prayer #Intercession

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

The king responds to the prayers of his people with assurance that God will be with him. He is absolutely certain of God‘s deliverance. Some put their faith in “chariots and horses.“ Their strength is in their own limited resources. But the people of God put their faith in the mighty name of the Lord. He will cause his people to rise up and stand firm. The people then lifted their voices, declaring victory.

Going through a trial recently in my life, I was surrounded by brothers and sisters in Christ praying for my family. I felt like the winning coach being carried off the field in victory. Lord, the prayers of the saints will literally carry one through the battles of life. Lord, may I be surrounded by prayer warriors; may I also join in prayers for others.

Called To Pray For National Leaders

(Psm 20:1-5)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

May all our nation’s leaders have favor with God; may their plans succeed (Psm 20:1-5). #America #PrayForNstionalLeaders

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

This psalm begins in a third person narrative. It reflects a band of worshipers; a congregation of prayer warriors lifting their national leader in prayer. Their leader, the King of Israel, is with them as they pray for him.

Lord, the battle is before us. May our great God keep our king safe and may he send help and strength from the dwelling place of God on high.

May God look with favor upon the king’s sacrifice as accompanied by his prayers.

We will shout praise for victory – raise our banner in the name of our God.

May the Lord answer all our king’s prayers.

The people of God are called upon to pray for all their leaders (red, blue & purple. Lord, this is how the prayer sentry must pray for national leaders today.

IMPREGNABLE

(Psm 12:6-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Lean into God in the face of evil (Psm 12:6-8). #WalkInSurrenderToGod #Impregnable #AFortressIsOurGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

To reiterate, the Lord is the only sure fortress for those oppressed by evil men. When his godly ones are marginalized and persecuted, they may cry with Job, “Though he slay me, yet well I trust him“ (Job 13:15).

Wicked men may flaunt their power over others in the “VILEST” of ways (only used here in the OT: horrid, vulgar, degenerate, et al.); engaging with contemptible followers. But the Lord is an IMPREGNABLE wall, a fortress against evil men. They may destroy me bodily, but I stand with God (Mat 10:28).

Lord, I am forever, eternally preserved in your protective care.

Called to Help

(Psm 12:5,6)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Stay open and ready to meet the needs of others (Psm 12:5,6). #WalkInSurrenderToGod #ShowConpassion

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

God‘s word is 100% reliable. It has stood the test of time and credibility. What God says, he will do. He cares for the helpless and the oppressed. When they cry out to him, he hears them and will meet their need. How? I am called to be God‘s hands and feet in this world.

Every believer is called upon to seek ways in which we might minister and support those who are in genuine need. Matthew 9:35-38 might be a companion passage and also an example for me to follow. Lord, may I be alert to pain or suffering around me and take action.

God + You = Majority

(Psm 12:1-4)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Trust that God is with his godly ones in the battle against evil (Psm 12:1-4). #WalkInSurrenderToGod #FullyRelyOnGod #YouDoNotStandAlone

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

It is difficult to read these verses and not be mindful of the godless cultural rhetoric and dialogue of recent years in our own nation. David decries the open lies, boastful pride and defiance running rampant in his culture. “Who can stop us?“ was their arrogant cry.

David finds himself hard-pressed to find anyone faithful to core biblical values. Like David, I may at times feel alone in the fight against ungodliness. Well, I am not alone and there is one who can stop it.* David calls upon Jehovah God to silence lying lips and boastful, arrogant tongues.

Lord, may I have confidence in knowing that I do not stand alone and you are with me.

________

* Wicked King Ahab of Israel and his wife Jezebel had the great prophet Elijah on the run after he took out 700 prophets of Baal. Elijah mourned that he was the “only one left” in the fight against evil. This account is worth the read. (1Ki 19‬:‭1-18‬)

Beyond The Externals

(Psm 4:4-8)

PRAYING FOR FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHURCH & NATION:

Walk in peace and inner contentment with God (Psm 4:4-8). #WalkInSurrenderToGod

MORNING WATCH NOTES:

When coming to God for help, make certain you come in the right spirit. Take time to examine the motivation of your heart (think on it a bit). No amount of prayers can overcome a disobedient heart focused only on external happiness.

The psalmist knows there is much more to be had beyond the externals. It is the inner joy that comes from knowing God and walking daily with him. That kind of inner joy and peace will give you confidence in God to keep you safe. Lord, you are the keeper of our inner peace and joy.