What does this sweet prayer teach me? It's my evening's petition, but first let it inspire some reflection. This scripture shows me that even David had doubts. Why else would he pray, "Say to my heart, I'm your salvation," if he didn't wrestle with doubts and fears? I'm encouraged because I'm not the only believer struggling with weak faith.

If David had doubts, I'm not less of a Christian for having them too. Yet, David didn't settle for living in doubt and fear. He went straight to the mercy seat, seeking assurance because he knew its worth. I must also strive to feel accepted in the Beloved and find no joy when His love isn't evident in my soul. When my Bridegroom seems distant, my soul will mourn and long for Him.

David knew where to find full assurance. He went to God in prayer, crying, "Say to my soul I'm your salvation." To have a clear understanding of Jesus' love, I need to spend much time alone with God. If my prayers fade, so does the clarity of my faith. Much prayer leads to much progress; little prayer leads to little progress.

David wouldn't settle for assurance from any source other than divine. "Say to my soul." That's a request for God Himself to affirm it. True Christians seek nothing less than divine confirmation in their hearts. Also, David sought a deeply personal assurance.

"Say to my heart, I'm your salvation." Lord, it's one thing if all believers hear this, but I need to hear it personally. I've sinned and don't deserve Your smile, but oh, say to my heart, even to me, "I'm your salvation." Let me feel it clearly and personally: that I'm Yours and You are mine.