Psalm 40

David’s mouth is empty of rebuke toward his persecutors (Psalm 38), full of prayer for the Lord’s aid (Psalm 39), and now is filled with praise for the Lord (Psalm 40). In verse 3, David’s songs of praise lead many who hear him to see God for themselves and put their trust in him. In verses 5, 9, and 10, David’s praise for God is heard not only in songs of worship, but also in the testimonies he shares of God’s faithfulness and love.

Lord, worship is more than music and song. In Psalm 40, David’s worship is heard in the testimonies he shares with others about your faithfulness and love. We pray, Lord, let our love for you and our worship of you not be contained to an hour each Sunday morning, but let it overflow and flood our lives, so that we talk about you and your goodness when we’re in our small groups, when we’re eating with our families, when we’re gathering or talking with friends, when we’re interacting with coworkers and neighbors. Whether we’re with fellow Jesus followers or with those who don’t follow Jesus, let us share your praise, that others might also see your goodness and put their trust in you.

Yes, Lord, we pray: let us be your missionaries in our community and in all our relationships. Let us be salt and light, that others see our good deeds and praise you (Matthew 5:13-16). Let us always be ready to give a reason for the hope that we have, that when opportunities arise to share our faith we may be ready, and others might find the hope they need in you (1 Peter 3:15). We pray for those who don’t know you: our family members, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and others, Lord. Grant them saving faith and the joy of your salvation. Grant that they might be added unto your family, that on the day of judgment they will not be put out, but will be brought in to live with us and with you forever and ever. We pray in Jesus’ most gracious name, amen.