Lessons from the Flowers

Psalm 143

When I visit Israel, the flowers always capture my attention. They thrive in dry soil, gravel, and rocks. The flowers bloom and burst forth to share their beauty with the world around them. I often pause and take yet another picture of flowers growing in barren spots. How can they grow, thrive, and survive in this parched piece of ground? 

And yet, they dig roots deep into the soil, extend their stems, and lift their pretty heads toward the sun. They wait patiently for the rain, and it seems like they smile in gratitude for all the Lord has given them. The flowers teach us some important lessons about trusting the Lord for His provision and care. I took this photo in Israel's hot, dry Judean Wilderness. 

I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Selah.

- Psalm 143:6

David’s words in Psalm 143 deliver a powerful message. I often come to this Psalm and ask you to join me. Let’s soak in these verses and ponder the words and phrases below. 

Verse 1 – Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my plea! Answer me because you are faithful and righteous.

Notice the psalmist asks the Lord to hear, listen, and answer him. Why? He has a personal relationship with God and truly believes the Lord is faithful and righteous. 

Verse 4 – I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear.

The Lord invites us to share our true feelings with Him. Be honest with yourself. Be honest with Him. Where are you struggling?

Verse 5 – I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done.

David directs our thoughts to the Lord’s work and accomplishments. He remembers, ponders, and thinks about the mighty work of God. An important piece of our personal relationship with God is remembering His great triumphs and mighty deeds. You might want to start this list and keep it in your Bible.

Verse 6 – I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Selah.

Do I come before the Lord with a thirsty spirit? Am I praying with great expectancy, trusting He will answer me – according to His will and purpose for my life?

Verse 8 – Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.

Acknowledging God’s faithful, covenant-keeping love brings great comfort to our hearts. I can trust Him and believe He will guide me in life. 

Verse 10 – Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing.

The psalmist asks the Lord to be his teacher, demonstrating a heart attitude of humility. The Holy Spirit is gracious, gentle, and kind as He directs our steps along the path.

Verse 11 – For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life. Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress.

Are you facing distress in your life? This verse reminds us to lean into the Lord, especially on those tough days. Let’s offer a response of praise to Him for His faithfulness.

Friends, we do not know God’s timing, purpose, or plan, but we can always trust Him. Lift your head up like a beautiful flower and pray the words in Psalm 143 to the Lord. He hears, He listens, and He will answer you. 

Head to Heart   

The Amplified Version of the Bible defines Selah as “pause, and calmly think of that.” I invite you to take time to meditate on and ponder the truth found in Psalm 143. 

Ask the gracious Holy Spirit to lead you forward, quench your thirst, and preserve your life. 

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