Psalm 86

"Incline Thine ear, O Lord, and answer me; for I am afflicted and needy" (v1). When life is good, we don't feel "afflicted and needy." But when we face job loss, conflict, illness, anxiety or loneliness - then we discover that God is "good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in lovingkindness" (v5). Because He is "merciful and gracious" (v15), God answers us in those difficult times.

As our faith grows, we cling to God even in the good times. We pray: "teach me Thy way, O Lord, and I will walk in Thy truth" (v11).