I find inspiration from writing through reading, like most people do. Depending on what I’ve just read, my writing styles will change dramatically. When I read fictional stories, I go back to working on a random side project I’ve been doing for years. When I read through commentaries, I find myself wanting to dig deep into passages and discover hidden truths. It’s not surprising, then, that when I read through the psalms, I find myself thinking in that same pattern. I find my heart crying out to God in a similar fashion, which is where I found myself a couple of days ago.

I am struggling. There are things going on in my life and in my heart that are causing grief and stress. Thankfully, I have an Advocate who understands my humanness (1 John 2:1). Jesus has faced (and conquered!) temptation. Because of that, He goes to the Father on my behalf. He pleads my case. He empathizes with my struggles. And He has had a lot of empathy on my account lately, because I have wrestled with feelings of anguish and hurt and unforgiveness.

So I wrote this prayer in psalm-like fashion. I hope that it will help you and encourage you, and I pray that it will continue to help my heart. I know God answers prayers. I know He supplies every need. I know He hears His children, and I am beyond thankful for that.

Be near me, dear God, in the days of my grief.
Heal my broken heart, when enemies wound with arrowed words.
Still my anger; help me release my grudges.
Grant me peace to forgive, strength to do good, and love to be kind.
Show me Your paths, lead me in the ways of Your righteousness.
Keep me in Your hand, protect me from more hurt, and in all things
Never leave me or forsake me.