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When threatened by trouble or evil, to whom do you turn for help? How do you lead others when surrounded by malicious people? Some may lean on other people or trust their own strength and wisdom. David was different. He cried out to the LORD, his Rock, for mercy and help. He lifted up his hands in prayer, knowing that unless God intervened, he would go down to the pit (2). He prayed not to be treated like the wicked. David knew well that evil people may appear to be polite on the outside but harbor malice on the inside (3). They had no regard for the LORD nor anything the LORD had done.
David prayed not to be dragged away like the wicked. He prayed that God would repay his enemies, to give them what they deserved, and to tear them down.
God answered David’s prayer. In verses 6-9, David’s tone changed to one of confidence that God had heard his cry for mercy. He praised God who is his strength and the strength of his people. God was his shield, the fortress of his people, and the one who saves. Whatever troubles your heart today, ask God to change your heart to trust him with faith, joy, and confidence.
May 1, 2026
THE LORD HELPS ME
Passage: bible.psalm 28:1-9
Key verse: 7
NIV
chapter 28
1. [Of David.] To you, Lord, I call; you are my Rock, do not turn a deaf ear to me. For if you remain silent, I will be like those who go down to the pit.
2. Hear my cry for mercy as I call to you for help, as I lift up my hands toward your Most Holy Place.
3. Do not drag me away with the wicked, with those who do evil, who speak cordially with their neighbors but harbor malice in their hearts.
4. Repay them for their deeds and for their evil work; repay them for what their hands have done and bring back on them what they deserve.
5. Because they have no regard for the deeds of the LORD and what his hands have done, he will tear them down and never build them up again.
6. Praise be to the LORD, for he has heard my cry for mercy.
7. The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.
8. The LORD is the strength of his people, a fortress of salvation for his anointed one.
9. Save your people and bless your inheritance; be their shepherd and carry them forever.
Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
Prayer: Father, we praise you for helping us. You are our strength and fortress. Shepherd us and carry us forever.
One Word: The LORD helps his people