Feigned prayers are fruitless; but if our hearts lead our prayers, GOD will meet them with HIS favour. The psalmist had been used to pray, so that it was not his distress and danger that now first brought him to his duty. And he was encouraged by his faith to expect GOD would notice his prayers. Constant resolution and watchfulness against sins of the tongue, will be a good evidence of our integrity. Aware of man’s propensity to wicked works, and of his own peculiar temptations, David had made GOD’s word his preservative from the paths of Satan, which lead to destruction. If we carefully avoid the paths of sin, it will be very lead to destruction. If we carefully avoid the paths of sin, it will be very comfortable in the reflection, when we are in trouble. Those that are, through grace, going in GOD’s paths, should pray that their goings may be held up in those paths. David prays, LORD, still hold me up. Those who would proceed and persevere in the ways of GOD, must, by faith prayer, get daily fresh supplies of grace and strength from HIM. Show thy marvellous loving-kindness, distinguishing favours, not common mercies, but be gracious to me; do as thou purposes to do to those who love THY name.

🌈

GOD responds to Jeremiah’s intercession in 14: 19–22

Because the people had rejected GOD and kept on backsliding, the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile to Babylon were inevitable. GOD said HE would ignore even if Moses and Samuel interceded and they were to stand before HIM on behalf of the people.

CHRIST warns the disciples that they must not make power over demons or success in ministry the primary source of their joy. Their rejoicing must come from the fact that they are redeemed from sin and destined for heaven.