Psalm 102:1 Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come unto thee.

2 Hide not thy face from me in the day when I am in trouble; incline thine ear unto me: in the day when I call answer me speedily.

3 For my days are consumed like smoke, and my bones are burned as an hearth.

4 My heart is smitten, and withered like grass; so that I forget to eat my bread.

Introductory Thoughts

Man’s appetite can serve as a powerful motivator. Yet, there are times when the body is so troubled because of difficulties that it will either forget its desire to eat, or lose its desire to eat all together. The psalmist said that his heart was smitten to the point that he forgot to eat his bread (Psalm 102:4). In Psalm 107:18, the Bible speaks of men who abhor “all manner of meat” and that “draw near unto the gates of death.” Other Bible characters serve as appropriate examples. Hannah was so distraught by Peninnah’s mocking over her barrenness that she refused to eat (1 Samuel 1:7). David refused to eat while pleading with the Lord for the life of his child (2 Samuel 12:16-17). At other times, illness may cause a severe reduction in appetite.

 Devotional thoughts

 (For children): Saul refused food for a day and a night to seek an answer from God about an impending battle. Because Saul had sinned against the Lord, God would not give him the answer he sought. Samuel told Saul of God’s judgment and the terrible news took away Saul’s appetite. Others had to compel or forcefully urge Saul to eat (1 Samuel 28:18-23).

 (For everyone): Do you ever remember a time when you lost your appetite? What caused you to lose your appetite? What became the sole focus of your attention?

 When are you most susceptible to your appetite taking control? How can getting busy for the Lord help to withstand your desire to overindulge on food?

Prayer Thoughts

 Ask God to give you strength even when your appetite is gone.

 Thank the Lord for His faithfulness.

 

SONG: GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU