Personalizing Scripture

O LORD, be gracious to us; we have waited for You. Be their strength every morning, our salvation also in the time of distress. Isaiah 33:2

Scripture is meant to engage our hearts. For years I was not able to apply the words to myself. God always seemed to be talking to Israel or David or some other patriarch. Unless it was a generic verse that mentioned the whole world or a verse of condemnation, I did not think I could own it as mine. Oh, the many messages I did not hear!

This morning I had the privilege and experience of putting my name in Isaiah 33:2. It became my prayer and my heart's cry to God. Penned almost 3,000 years ago it becomes fresh and alive for me today. It becomes my words spoken into the very ears of God. I know He delights in the times I use His words as my own personal prayer journal. Although it took me decades to begin embracing His words for myself, He smiles at the fact that I do it now.

But I have also learned the power that comes when I pray scripture and insert a friend's name there. I can only imagine how it would minister to someone if I sent them an email or card with these words:

Friend,May the Lord be gracious to You ~ I know you are waiting for Him to act. May He be Your strength every morning and your salvation at this difficult time in your life.

I can imagine they would see my love and concern for them, but even more, their eyes would be directed toward the real Source of their help!

Father, this morning there are many names (including my own) that I could insert in this portion of Scripture. They are as fresh today as when Isaiah first penned them. Thank You that Your eyes and heart are open to my cry. Amen.