Psalm 73
My flesh and my heart may fail but God is the strength of my heart and my portion for ever. (Psalm 73:26 NIV)
Over the past decade I have found myself repeating this verse silently to myself during times of crisis and challenge. While this did not immediately change or stop the current crisis or challenge, it definitely enabled me to focus on God and his love and to acknowledge his provision for me as I traversed choppy waters. This was especially the case as I underwent various tests to diagnose my heart condition and I had a great sense of God’s peace, in the face of uncertainty and adversity.
Read through Psalm 73 slowly, you may like to do this out loud.
This psalm makes a number of references to the heart: pure in heart (vs1 & 13)), callous hearts (vs7), grieved heart (vs21), failing heart and strength of heart (vs26).
Choose one of these verses and use it for Lectio Divina, to ponder and meditate on.
Then spend some time recalling the times in your life when God has been your strength and portion, as you have experienced your ‘flesh and heart’ failing and turn your memories of these times, into praise and thanksgiving for his provision for you in them.
Is there anyone you know whose ‘flesh and heart’ are currently failing at the moment? Pray for them and think of some practical act of kindness that you can show/do for them.
You may like to record your insights from this time with Psalm 73 in your journal.