How does calling on the Lord in Psalm 116:4 strengthen our faith journey? Setting the Scene Psalm 116 records a worshiper rescued from the brink of death. Verse 4 captures the turning point: “Then I called on the name of the LORD: ‘O LORD, deliver my soul!’” From that single cry flows renewed life, gratitude, and public testimony (vv. 5-19). The believer’s experience models how our own faith journey is fortified whenever we call on the Lord. What “Calling on the Lord” Means • An intentional cry for help—urgent, undistracted, wholehearted • A confession of helplessness and God’s complete sufficiency • A verbal act of trust that God hears and will intervene (cf. Psalm 34:17; Romans 10:13) Why This Call Strengthens Us • Reorients our focus – Instead of rehearsing threats, we rehearse who God is (Psalm 121:1-2). – Our gaze shifts from circumstances to the covenant-keeping LORD. • Deepens reliance, not self-reliance – Psalm 118:8-9 reminds us it is better to take refuge in the LORD than in man or princes. – Each appeal loosens pride’s grip, teaching day-by-day dependence. • Invites immediate divine action – Jeremiah 33:3 promises, “Call to Me and I will answer you…” God’s response may be rescue, strength, or wisdom, but it is always timely. – Knowing the Almighty intervenes bolsters courage to face future trials. • Builds experiential knowledge of God – Deliverance moves truth from theory to testimony (Psalm 116:8-9). – Personal history with God becomes living proof for the next valley (2 Corinthians 1:10). • Fuels gratitude and worship – Psalm 116:12-14 shows that answered prayer turns into vows of praise. – Thankfulness reinforces faith; what God has done becomes assurance of what He will do (Hebrews 13:8). Practical Ways to “Call” Today • Speak aloud a simple, Scripture-shaped plea—“Lord, deliver my soul.” • Write the need in a journal, framing it as direct address to God. • Sing psalms or hymns that echo dependence (e.g., Psalm 86). • Share the request with a trusted believer, inviting united prayer (Matthew 18:19-20). Living the Ongoing Journey Psalm 116:4 is more than an ancient cry; it is the believer’s continual rhythm. Every fresh call strengthens faith by anchoring us to the God who listens, rescues, and sustains—ensuring that each step of the journey is walked with growing confidence in Him. |
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