In Him: Songs in the Key of Life, part 2

Pastor Rickey continued his series, "Songs in the Key of Life" with today's message teaching us how to ask for help. "One of the most frequent prayers in the bible is help!" But, as Pastor reminded us, while God didn't promise us a perfect life, He did tell us we would not be alone!

The really cool thing about God is that He listens to us! We can be real with him, about where we are in life, what we are struggling with and ask him to help!

Our Worship Arts Pastor, Jonathan, shared that one of the great things about songs is that they can say it better than we can at times! Isn't that so true? The song above from Hillsong "Still" says it better than I can so that is why I wanted to share it with you!

There always seems to be something that we need God to help us with! I am so thankful that no matter how big or small God always listens!

Pastor used Psalm 143:1-12 to walk us through a pattern for asking God for help...sending out an SOS!

Sending out an SOS

1. God, Listen!

a. Hear me, please!

Hear my prayer, O Lord; listen to my plea! Answer me because you are faithful and righteous. Psalm 143:1 (NLT)

b. Don't look at my mistakes.

Don’t put your servant on trial, for no one is innocent before you. Psalm 143:2 (NLT)

I am so thankful that He does not look at my mistakes, instead He is patient and forgiving and ready to listen! We just need to bring our worries and problems to Him!

2. I am tired of running from big things.

My enemy has chased me. He has knocked me to the ground and forces me to live in darkness like those in the grave. I am losing all hope; I am paralyzed with fear. Psalm 143:3-4 (NLT)

Pastor did something different today, different is good! Throughout his message he asked for audience involvement...bold souls willing to stand up and share how God has helped them. You can join in too!

One area that I'm losing the battle- ______________________

For me, it is a battle I have to remind myself to keep taking back to God...my hubby's new pay structure and our house! This June will be four years that we have been in the house, almost two years since we tried to sell it in fear when values began to decline and hubby's company tanked.I am good for a few months after I take it to God...then I start to let fear creep back in and worry, and funny enough just last night I was telling hubby my fears were back again!

3. I know you have helped me before.

I remember the days of old. I ponder all your great works and think about what you have done. I lift my hands to you in prayer. I thirst for you as parched land thirsts for rain. Interlude Psalm 143:5-6 (NLT)

One word that describes a time God helped you-_____________

One word? Finances. For all of the worry and fear I have taken to God over the years, He has always provided for our needs! Leaving my career of 15 years to stay home with our girlie took a huge amount of faith in Him. And I continue to say, that as long as He wants me to be home with her, He will bless it, He will provide. Thank you!

4. I need a clear answer.

Come quickly, Lord, and answer me, for my depression deepens. Don’t turn away from me, or I will die. Psalm 143:7 (NLT)

Where I need an answer now-___________________________

Well, of course hubby and I are wondering if he will earn a bonus this year. I don't suppose God will send me an e-mail with that answer huh? But, I guess more important is the answer to keep living by faith in Him.

5. I need clear direction.

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. Psalm 143:8 (NLT)

Where I need direction now-____________________________

I shared our experience with trying to sell our house out of fear and trying to control things...instead of praying to Him first. We finally did turn to Him in prayer and decided to live by faith. We are trusting Him that when and if we are to sell our house, He will guide us and we will know it is His will, not ours.

6. Save me, teach me, and lead me!

Rescue me from my enemies, Lord; I run to you to hide me. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. May your gracious Spirit lead me forward on a firm footing. For the glory of your name, O Lord, preserve my life. Because of your faithfulness, bring me out of this distress. In your unfailing love, silence all my enemies and destroy all my foes, for I am your servant. Psalm 143:9-12 (NLT)

Where I need to grow right now-________________________

Our previous Pastor Leonard once said "be careful what you pray for, you'll get it!" I say that with a smile on my face and in my heart. I have always prayed for a strong faith in God, to trust Him, not my own efforts, to give glory to Him! When I look at hubby's income, our house value and waiting on a second child He is building my faith! Thank you!

In Him,