Perryville Thrift Store & Psalms 119

 Today, I had to go to Perryville, Missouri for a meeting, that just happened to be blocks from the Thrift Store-Perryville MO Society of St Vincent de Paul!  So, I made a short stop and scored this amazing painting and adorable flower water can!  I was in awe.  I love the things the Society of St Vincent de Paul does with the money they make from their little store - so I always try to stop when I am nearby!  

Now, I know you really googled Thrift Store, Perryville Missouri and why am I talking about Psalms 119.  Well, I was listening to a podcast about Psalms 119 when I decided to make the stop.  Over the past few months, I have turned to listening to podcast and scripture while I drive long distances and while I paint.  I get a 2 for 1 deal, God's Word and I accomplish my task in front of me.  These are also my time with God.  Time for me to reflect on myself and work through the things that have been bothering me.  

Psalms 119, have you read it?  Wow it is loaded!  

I am worn out waiting for your rescue,

    but I have put my hope in your word.

82 

My eyes are straining to see your promises come true.

    When will you comfort me?

83 

I am shriveled like a wineskin in the smoke,

    but I have not forgotten to obey your decrees.

84 

How long must I wait?

    When will you punish those who persecute me?

85 

These arrogant people who hate your instructions

    have dug deep pits to trap me.

86 

All your commands are trustworthy.

    Protect me from those who hunt me down without cause.

87 

They almost finished me off,

    but I refused to abandon your commandments.

88 

In your unfailing love, spare my life.

    then I can continue to obey your laws. 

Psalms 119; 81-88

There are times (more times than not) that I just become so overwhelmed by the overload of pressures from the outside world.  I often hate my phone and I really hate social media.  These devices are so full of sinful things.  Images, thoughts, conversations, just garbage that takes a toll on our hearts.  

Teach me your decrees, O Lord;

    I will keep them to the end.

34 

Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions;

    I will put them into practice with all my heart.

35 

Make me walk along the path of your commands,

    for that is where my happiness is found.

36 

Give me an eagerness for your laws

    rather than a love for money!

37 

Turn my eyes from worthless things,

    and give me life through your word.[b]

38 

Reassure me of your promise,

    made to those who fear you.

39 

Help me abandon my shameful ways;

    for your regulations are good.

40 

I long to obey your commandments!

    Renew my life with your goodness.

I have found my heart hurting more and more these days from all the hate in this world.  All the sin, but then I remember the sin has always been there, but we forget to focus on God to protect ourselves from the sin.   

(If you landed on this page and are thinking what in the world is this girl talking about.  I am a writer, I struggle to pray out loud, but I can write my prayers.   Praying for my community, the people in my community, and for a hedge around my community is the best act of leadership I can do.  This is my personal prayer journal titled "My City Prayers")