40-Day Prayer and Fasting Guide:

If we want God to move during our upcoming Whisper Gathering, we must first prepare our hearts for Him. We do that through prayer and fasting. Someone once asked if fasting was what we do to show God we’re serious about our prayers. Perhaps so, but we believe fasting helps us know we’re serious as well. It amplifies the power of our prayers. As Jesus said, “Some things only come out by prayer.” (Mark 9:29) Later manuscripts include the phrase “by prayer and fasting.” (Matthew 17:21)

This 40-day prayer and fasting guide is designed to help us in our preparation. We’ll work our way through Psalm 119 together and share devotional thoughts for every day from now until (and including) the day our retreat begins. 

You can start whenever you’re ready and double up if needed. The length of time you pray and fast is not as important as the fervency with which you pray and the surrendered heart with which you fast.

We hope you’ll participate in both the devotionals and a season of fasting. We’ve included information on different types of fasts, but no one expects you to do a complete fast for 40 days. Instead, most will likely do a partial fast for the forty-day period. Please seek God’s leadership before you finalize any fasting plan.

Some medical problems, such as diabetes, willl imit the kind of fast you can do. You can still fast, but don’t fast all food. Instead, fast a favorite beverage, TV, or other leisure activity, maybe even a certain food group. (sweets? bread? soft drinks?) Regardless, seek God’s guidance before you decide about a fast.

When we deny ourselves in this way, we take our focus from the thing we fast and turn it toward the Lord. Use the time to seek His face and His ways, as well as a deeper walk with Him. Let Him prepare your heart for the work He plans to do during our weekend together.

TYPES OF FASTS:

Complete Fast:

Eat nothing and drink nothing, not even water.  The maximum duration is three days. This is a fast of desperation and extreme urgency. Very few people, other than Jesus, were called to this fast but there is no evidence that anyone else was called to it. It is included for completeness sake, but we do not recommend this fast in preparation for Whisper Gathering.

Normal fast:

This fast involves eating no food but drinking plenty of water. One example is that of Ezra in preparation for the return to Jerusalem as described in Ezra 8:21. This, too, is a difficult fast and few are called to it. We do not recommend this fast in preparation for Whisper Gathering.

Partial Fast:  (Also called the Daniel Fast):

This fast involves abstaining from certain foods or certain pleasures. One example is when Daniel ate only vegetables and drank only water. Other possibilities include abstaining from certain foods, desserts, coffee, soft drinks, shopping, movies, romance novels, etc. This is the perfect fast for someone with diabetes or other health problems and we recommend this sacrificial fast as you prepare for Whisper Gathering.

Corporate Fast:

A corporate fast is done when a group of people choose to unite in prayer and fasting – usually about a specific issue and for a specified time. Scripture describes many examples of this and includes the people of Ninevah in response to Jonah’s preaching, Ezra’s pre-travel fast, and King Jehosophat. (2 Chronicles 20) We recommend a corporate fast for churches undergoing a time of difficulty or seeking God’s will in a certain area or for a group of people seeking unity and God’s leadership.

Nazirite Fast: (Numbers 6:2-21)

This fast involves a vow of a limited duration for anyone who desires to be a “sanctified servant.” Several restrictions are involved but the basics of this fast are that the Nazarite does not cut his/her hair during the time of the vow and abstains from anything made from grapes. At the end of the time, the hair is shaved/cut and the Nazarite makes a special offering to the Lord.

Sin Fast:  (Isaiah 58)

God spoke to the prophet Isaiah about the sin of His people. They fasted day after day but had no answers to their prayers.  Their fasts were for show only and not done with the intent of humbling themselves before Almighty God.  The only fast He would accept, He told Isaiah, was a sin fast, specifically that of a judgmental, critical spirit. Regardless of the sin with which you struggle, a sin fast is a great way to prepare for the Whisper Gathering and gives the added benefit of freedom in a new area.

Day 1: “How blessed are those whose way is blameless, who walk in the law of the Lord. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, who seek Him with all their heart. They also do no unrighteousness; they walk in His ways.” Psalm 119:1-3

Whisper Gathering is designed to help women take a step deeper in their faith and move their lives closer to what God intends. As you begin this forty-day guide, spend some time considering whether or not these verses describe your life. Are you living the blameless, obedient, righteous life God blesses? If not, now is the time to ask God what changes He wants to see in your life.

Pivot Point: What is the first step God wants you to take? Make a note, date it, and get started on moving toward what He desires.

Day 2: “Thou hast ordained Thy precepts, that we should keep them diligently. Oh, that my ways may be established to keep Thy statutes! Then I shall not be ashamed when I look upon all Thy commandments.” Psalm 119:4-6

“Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the prophets.’” Matthew 22:36-40

God didn’t give us His precepts, or instructions, as an informational bulletin. Instead, He gave them as a handbook for living the Christian life with the expectation of diligent obedience on our part.

If we are expected to obey God’s statutes, laws, and commands, we need to know how to accomplish this huge task. Jesus’ summary of the “how-to instructions” are as simple as they come. Love God. Love others.

Pause to ponder this hard truth. Love is the basis for everything we think, feel, and do as believers. It’s why we follow Jesus, why we obey Him, and how (and why) we serve others in His name.

Pivot Point: What do your obedience to God and your love for others say about the love that motivates you? In what order do you love yourself, others, and God? How does that need to change?

Day 3: “How can a young man keep his way pure? By keeping it according to Thy word.” Psalm 119:9

The word translated as “young man” can also be tranlsated as “servant,” “child,” or “girl.” The only way any of us, whether male or female, can “keep our way pure,” or live a god-honoring life, is by living according to God’s Word. In a society often driven by social media and the opinions of the loudest voices, it’s easy to allow culture to influence and direct our thoughts and lifestyles. If we want to keep our lives unblemished by the sin of our world, however, we must know His Word and live His Word.

Pivot Point: What voice most often influences your thoughts and actions? Do you look first to podcasters, bloggers, prominent Christian writers, or social media to decide what you think about an issue or do you turn to God’s Word first? By what standard are you attempting to keep your way pure? How closely does your standard line up with the standard of Scripture? If there’s a discrepancy, what do you need to change?

Day 4: “Thy word I have treasured in my heart, that I may not sin against Thee.” Psalm 119:11

“But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you.” John 14:26

We can’t remember something we’ve never known. The Holy Spirit can’t remind of us Scripture we’ve never read, heard, or learned. We tend to approach the work of memorizing Scripture as a job for children and too hard a task for adults, but it’s not. We are never too old or too unskilled to plant Scripture in our hearts.

The process is as simple as writing a verse, meditating on it, and repeating it consistently until it’s rooted firmly in our memory. This isn’t children’s work. It’s the vital work of a warrior preparing for deadly battle.

Psalm 119:11 is crystal clear. We must know Scripture well enough to recall it when we are tempted because it protects us from sin. It’s an important part of spiritual warfare and is, in fact, “the Sword of the Spirit which is the Word of God.” Only a foolish warrior leaves her only offensive weapon behind and goes into battle against her merciless enemy with nothing but defensive armor in place.

Want victory in your life? Prepare your weapon. Learn Scripture and use it.

Pivot Point: Is Scripture memorization a week spot? If so, confess it, ask God to help you make a fresh start, and choose one verse to memorize this week. Psalm 119:11 is a great place to start.

Day 5: “I will meditate on Thy precepts, and regard Thy ways. Open my eyes, that I may behold wonderful things from Thy law. Give me understanding that I may observe Thy law, and keep it with all my heart.” Psalm 119:15, 18, 34

There is nothing wrong with a devotional book in which you read a single verse and a quick devotional thought. Those tools are great for a new believer or for a quick bit of

encouragement when needed. Women who want to follow God as He intended, who want to have all He has in store for them, however, will do more. The psalmist reads Scripture, meditates on what he reads, and seeks understanding from God Himself so that he can diligently obey. We must do the same.

Pivot Point: Choose a book of the Bible and begin to read it daily. Take a portion at a time, look for commentary online (blueletterbible.com is one of our favorite helps), and study each passage until you not only understand it, but know how to put it into action in your own life. Write down any questions and ask your pastor, Sunday School teacher, or other believer who knows the Bible well to help you understand the meaning of anything you’re unsure about. Begin now to let the Bible change your life and make you more like Jesus.

Day 6: “Thy testimonies also are my delight; they are my counselors.” Psalm 119:24

As we go through Psalm 119, we will see the great love of the psalmist for God’s Word. It is a source of joy in his life but it is so much more. The Scripture is a counselor, or advisor, for him. When he doesn’t understand a situation, when enemies come against him, when it feels as if his life is falling apart, when he isn’t sure what his next step should be, he does not seek the counsel of men, not even those men who are considered wise and well-educated in the things of God. He goes to Scripture for advice, counsel, and direction.

He not only seeks wisdom and direction from Scripture, but he also takes delight in it, even when the advice of Scripture differs from his “natural instincts.” In a way, he follows the instructions of Jesus’ half-brother, James. “Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials…” (James 1:2) The psalmist “considers it all joy” when Scripture directs his paths and so should we.

Pivot Point: Do you share the psalmist’ delight in God’s Word? Do you consider the Bible your best advisor? The source of wise counsel and direction? If not, why not? What decisions do you face? What does Scripture tell you is your best next step?

Day 7: I have told of my ways, and Thou hast answered me; teach me Thy statutes. Make me understand the way of Thy precepts, so I will meditate on Thy wonders.” Psalm 119:26,27

The psalmist acknowledged a hard truth. His ways were not necessarily God’s ways. He admits his “ways” to God and asks Him to reveal which of those fail to line up with God’s ways. “Teach me YOUR ways,” he pleads. When he asks for understanding of God’s statutes and precepts, he’s asking for an understanding of God’s written Word (the Bible) and His overseer instructions. He is choosing God’s ways rather than his own.

Pivot Point: Ask God to reveal any areas in which your ways are not His. Confess them, as the psalmist did, then make the same bold ask. “Teach me Your ways.” It’s not enough to know God’s ways, we must also obey them. He will teach. It’s our job to obey.

Commit today to fresh obedience in at least one area.

Day 8: “Remove the false way from me, and graciously grant me Thy law.” Psalm 119:29

We might paraphrase this verse by saying, “Get the lies out of me, Lord!” Scripture tells us the devil is the author of lies and he is eager to plant lies and falsehood in any who will listen. We need a firm understanding of God’s truth so that we can recognize and reject lies.

Unfortunately, we don’t merely allow the enemy to tempt us with lies about God, but we also allow him to tempt us with lies about ourselves. All too often we believe them. Whether the enemy tells us we are better than we are, that our “little” disobedience doesn’t matter, or that God doesn’t mean what He says, it is our responsibility to reject falsehood.

Pivot Point: Ask God to reveal any false beliefs and to remove them from your heart and mind. What is one way you can focus on truth and combat the lies of the evil one today?

Day 9: “I have chosen the faithful way…I have placed Thine ordinances before me…I cleave to Thy testimonies…I shall run the way of Thy commandments, for Thou wilt enlarge my heart.” from Psalm 119:30-32

This passage is filled with action verbs. Choose. Place. Cleave. Run. Do you see the psalmist’s progression toward obedience? First, he chose God’s “faithful way” then he made a conscious decision to learn God’s ordinances, His directions.

Knowing God’s ways was only the start. The psalmist chose to be “stuck like glue” to God’s Word and His ways. Because of the first three actions, he was able to run (make haste, hurry) to obey. We’ll see this theme again as we work our way through Psalm 119. Running in the faithful way is a process that begins with one wise and God-directed decision at a time.

Pivot Point: Do these four verbs describe your walk of faith? Have you made a firm decision to always choose the faithful way? Are you stuck like glue on God’s Word and His way? Can your faith walk best be described as “running in His way” or is it more like staggering along? Which of the four verbs used in this passage will you focus on so that you can experience the expansion of heart only God can give?

Day 10: “Make me walk in the path of Thy commandments, for I delight in it. Incline my heart to Thy testimonies…” Psalm 119:35, 36a

When the psalmist asks God to “make me walk,” he’s not asking God to force him to go on a holy hike. Instead, he’s asking God to equip and help him to obey. The next verse, however, is vital. The psalmist knows he can’t change his own heart so he asks God to do

it for him. In a way, he’s asking God to not only give him the ability to obey but also the desire to obey.

Pivot Point: Do you struggle with a desire for the ways of the world? Why not join the psalmist in asking God to give you both the ability and the desire to know Him better and follow His path more closely? Write your commitment in your journal or make a note of the date you claim this verse for yourself in your Bible.

Day 11: “Turn away my eyes from looking at vanity, and revive me in Thy ways.” Psalm 119:37

The Hebrew word translated “vanity” indicates anything that is worthless, false, or empty of value. Eve “saw” the fruit, desired, and took it. It’s the way of the world to see something, desire it, and work to have it—whether it’s profitable for our faith or not. If we don’t see a thing, we’re not likely to desire it or be drawn away from the things of God to pursue it.

The psalmist understood an important truth. We can’t focus on the things of this world and the things of God at the same time. He asked God to turn his eyes away from frivolous things so that he could keep focused on God and His ways.

Pivot Point: On what frivolous, vain, empty things do you focus during your day? In what way do they limit the time you spend focused on God and in His Word? How much time could you gain for the kingdom of God if you simply stepped away from the trivial and focused on the eternal? Ask God what you need to remove from your sight, then take action immediately. If you need to remove an app from your phone in order to limit your visions of vain things, do it now.

Day 12: “And I will walk at liberty, for I seek Thy precepts.” Psalm 119:45

Personal freedom is a big issue for Americans. We know our rights and we want them. The psalmist, however, desires a greater freedom. He doesn’t put his trust in a legal document such as the Bill of Rights. Instead, he trusts in the living Word of God. He wants the freedom of spirit that comes when he is no longer a slave to sin. It’s the freedom only Jesus can give. When Jesus said, “You can’t serve two masters…” (Matthew 6:24) He specifically mentioned money but the principle applies for all worldly things. We can’t fully serve two masters at once so a choice is required. If we want the freedom of spirit only Jesus can give, we must focus on and serve Him.

Pivot Point: What freedom do you seek? Personal freedom as outlined in legal terms or the freedom from bondage to sin and it’s consequences? Which has eternal significance? Today, make a fresh commitment to walk in the freedom of Christ by seeking His will and His way. Be sure to ask Him to reveal what He wants in at least one area of your life today.

Day 13: “Remember the word to Thy servant, in which Thou hast made me hope.”

Psalm 119:49

If you’ve studied God’s word for a while, you have likely come across a verse or verses that resonate with you in such a strong way that you know it’s for you personally. It may be your “life verse” or the promise concerning something or someone about which you’ve prayed for years. It’s a “hang onto the certainty for years” kind of verse, the one that “made you hope.” In this section, the psalmist reminds God of the promise He’s made. “Remember what you said…” He’s holding God to His word.

The Lord always keeps His promises (Psalm 145:13) As he reminds our Promise-keeping God about His own promise, the psalmist is reminding himself, as well.

Pivot Point: Think about the promise verses you’ve claimed over the years. Go back through them (or make a list) and ask God to remember His word to you. As you read through your verses, remind yourself of and thank Him for His faithfulness to do all He has said He will do.

Day 14: “O Lord, I remember Thy name in the night, and keep Thy law.” Psalm 119:55 “At midnight I shall rise to give thanks to Thee because of Thy righteous ordinances.”

Psalm 119:62

The psalmist made the most of his time, both during the day and during the night. When he awakened from sleep, he chose to spend part of his night in prayer. Rather than toss or turn, count sheep, or grumble because he wasn’t sleeping, he remembered God’s name, thought about His Word, and gave thanks to Him.

Pivot Point: Do you sometimes have trouble sleeping? When you awaken in the night, are the faithfulness and righteousness of God your first thoughts or do you obsess about getting back to sleep? Tonight, make every hour count. Decide now to use your wakefulness to offer praise and thanksgiving to our Lord.

Day 15: “I am a companion of all those who fear Thee, and of those who keep Thy precepts.” Psalm 119:63

“He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will suffer harm.” Proverbs 13:20

“Do not be deceived: ‘Bad company corrupts good morals.’” 1 Corinthians 15:33

It’s a hard truth. We become like the people with whom we spend time. We have a choice, and it matters more than we may realize. If we spend time with wise people, we learn from them and become more like them. If we invest our time with those who are evil, unwise, or disregard the things of God, we will become like them.

What if we don’t spend time with people who are evil, but with those who complain, are

ungrateful, or judgmental? We may not want to exhibit their same behaviors but, if we spend enough time with them, we’re likely to grow more and more like them.

Look at the words of the psalmist. “I am a companion of…” He knows the importance of a time investment. He considered his options and chose to invest his time with those who fear and obey God. Will he reap a benefit for this? No doubt about it. He’s with those who fear and obey God and the more time he spends with them, the more he will learn about fearing and obeying God.

Pivot Point: For a moment, consider those with whom you spent time over the last month, whether in person on online. To whom did you listen? Who did you allow to speak into your thoughts, your head, your heart? Did the time help you become more, or less, like our Lord Jesus?

Ask yourself if your companions are the ones Jesus would choose for you. If not, ask Him what changes He wants you to make and take action today to surround yourself with those who fear and obey. It’s not just obedience. It’s an investment in your soul.

Day 16: “Thou has dealt well with Thy servant, O Lord, according to Thy word… Before I was afflicted, I went astray, but now I keep Thy word.” Psalm 119:65,67

“It is good for me that I was afflicted, that I may learn Thy statutes.” Psalm 119:71

“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter. various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.” James 1:2-4

The psalmist has a rare perspective on hard times. Before God allowed trials, or afflictions, in his life, he wandered from the path. During the hard times, he learned the importance of obedience and the grace and mercy of God. When he looked back, he realized God used the hard to bring about the great good of a deep and abiding relationship with the Most High. Those afflictions were hard but worth it.

Pivot Point: What hard times or difficult trials have you experienced? How did God use them to teach you more about Himself? How did you learn to obey Him through the trials?

Take a few moments today to thank God for the hard times He allowed and the lessons you learned. Say with the psalmist, “You have dealt well with me, Lord, because You taught me how to follow You.”

Day 17: “Revive me according to Thy lovingkindness, so that I may keep the testimony of Thy mouth.” Psalm 119:88

The psalmist begins this section with a burst of difficult emotions. He is languishing,

waiting, longing. His enemies persecute him with physical, mental, and spiritual traps. He’s just about had all he can take. He feels as frail and insubstantial as smoke, as if he could drift away on a soft wind. He begs God to move, to bring about justice, to comfort him.

In all the turmoil, he reminds himself and his heavenly Father of the one truth to which he clings. Even in the worst of his trial, he hasn’t forsaken God’s Word. He still looks to the One who can make all things right. “Revive me,” he pleads, but he is not asking for his persecution to end, for God to uncover the lies, or put his tormentors in the pits they dug for him. Instead, he asks God to revive him so that he may continue to keep, cling to, and obey what God has said. In a way, he is saying, “Help me walk this out all the way to the end and do it in a way that honors you, Lord.”

Have you ever felt like insubstantial smoke? As if you could fade away, unseen, unknown, unloved? The psalmist knew that pain but he also knew something greater— the sustaining lovingkindness of God. Face down on the ground, he cried out with confidence in the One who loved him most and He did not let our sorrowful psalmist down.

Pivot Point: None of us are immune to trials, opposition, or threats. If we haven’t faced hard times already, we can be sure we will. Take some time today to consider those who have opposed your faith, lied about you, persecuted you, or simply treated you badly. Name the offense and give it to God, just as the psalmist did. Ask our Father to deal with those who have wounded you as He sees fit then ask Him to revive you with His mercy and grace, help you recognize His lovingkindness at work in your life, and equip you to keep His word and His ways as you go forward. As you do, may He receive all the glory and honor.

Day 18: “Forever, Lord, Thy word is settled in heaven. Thy faithfulness continues throughout all generations;” Psalm 119:89, 90a

When the psalmist describes God’s word as “settled,” he means it stands firm. It lasts for all eternity, just as His faithfulness continues to all generations. Because His word never fluctuates or fails, we can count on it. When God’s word says He is love, we can count on that truth to remain true for all eternity. When it says He will never leave us nor forsake us, we can trust Him to be with us, no matter what comes our way, no matter how long we live. Established. Anchored. Certain. His word is all of that and more.

Pivot Point: What three verses come to mind as you think of God’s word? To what promises do you most often cling? Write them down and spend some time today thanking God for His never-failing, never-expiring Word and the certainty they give to your life and walk of faith. Be sure to thank Him for the specific promises on which you rely.

Day 19: “I have restrained my feet from every evil way, that I may keep Thy word. I have not turned aside from Thine ordinances, for Thou Thyself hast taught me.”

Psalm 119:101, 102

The psalmist understood an important principle. We can’t do good and evil at the same time. It is not possible to live in the ways of the world and to do what God considers evil yet still keep God’s ways. We must choose, just as the psalmist did. He did not turn from God’s ways. Instead, he “restrained” himself from doing evil so that he could do what was right.

He didn’t shun the wisdom and teaching of his elders but he understood all wisdom comes from God. The only totally trustworthy teacher is God Himself, the only totally trustworthy curriculum is God’s word. The lessons God revealed as the psalmist studied His word gave him direction and purpose in life.

Pivot Point: Do you sometimes keep one foot in the world and one foot in God’s camp? How careful are you to restrain your feet from evil? Are you content to accept human teaching without verifying that teaching in God’s word? How diligent are you to learn from God? What is one step you could take to learn more from God?

Day 20: “Thy word is a lamp to my feet, and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

God gives us a clear idea of the way in which we must follow Him—integrity, righteousness, obedience. He may also give us an idea of the manner of the path on which we travel (the mode of service, the work we will do) but He rarely gives us a glimpse of every specific step we’re to take. If He did, we wouldn’t need constant reliance on His direction.

Instead of a spotlight or mag light, when God’s word is described as a “lamp,” it’s a reference to a small, palm-sized oil lamp. When the wick is lit, it gives just enough light for the next step. Imagine a single tea-light-sized candle. How far does the light reach? Not far at all. Because we can count on our Lord to give us the directions we need to travel the path set before us, we don’t need to see more than a single step ahead. Even better, though, the single-step light assures us we can make the appropriate, God- ordained step every single time.

Instead of whining that he doesn’t have the entire picture, the psalmist accepts the light God gives and walks in it. He knows the tiny bit of light ensures another result. There’s nothing to gain from rushing ahead of God and, in fact, we’re likely to get off His path if we do. A lamp to our feet forces us to wait for the next bit of light before we make the next step.

Pivot Point: How often have you rushed ahead of God rather than wait for His clear instruction? How well did that work out? Are you in a waiting season now? Today, thank God for the light and clarity of purpose and direction He willingly gives us, even when it’s one-step-at-a-time light. Ask Him to show you the next step He wants you to take and move ahead as He leads. One step at a time.

Day 21: “I am exceedingly afflicted; revive me, O Lord, according to Thy word.” Psalm 119:107

Exceedingly afflicted. This is more than having a bad day or a tough week. It’s the pressing down of an almost-more-than-you-can-bear burden. No way to escape. No relief in sight. It’s only-God-can-save-me trouble. That’s where the psalmist found himself.

As James 1 tells us, we shouldn’t be surprised by hard times. Instead, we should find joy in them and recognize that God uses hard times to teach us endurance, patience, forbearance. He uses tough situations to perfect us and make us more like Jesus.

Like James, the psalmist also recognized something important. Refreshment doesn’t come simply because the affliction ends. Instead, God is at work in our affliction and He uses His word to revive and refresh us even while the hard times continue.

Pivot Point: When you go through hard times is your focus on bringing the hard to an end? Do you ask God to fix the problem or to change you through the problem? Where do you turn for refreshment and revival? How might you find revival in God’s word and how have you lived this truth in the past?

If you’re going through a hard time right now, try this: Instead of asking God to bring your trial to an end, ask Him to bring revival through His word and use the trial to teach you endurance and make you more like Jesus.

Day 22: “I have inclined my heart to perform Thy statutes forever, even to the end.” Psalm 119:112

This eight-verse section of Psalm 119 began with a description of God’s word as a lamp and a light. It ends with a description of the psalmist as “inclining” his heart, or bending toward the light of God’s word.

This verse is one of utter abandonment to God. The psalmist promises to walk in God’s path and obey His statutes every day for the rest of his life. It’s a “no turning back” determination that will carry the psalmist through the rest of his life.

Pivot Point: Have you inclined your heart to God’s ways? Is this a “for now” kind of inclination or a “forever and ever amen,” “to the end of you life” decision? How committed are you to “holy walking” and perseverance, especially when life is hard? Is there any area in which you need to make a deeper commitment?

Day 23: “I hate those who are double-minded but I love Thy law. Thou art my hiding place and my shield; I wait for Thy word.” Psalm 119:113, 114

When Elijah confronted the prophets of Baal and the Asherah, he came near to the people and demanded an answer to an all-important question. “‘How long will you

hesitate between two opinions? If the Lord is God, follow Him; but if Baal, follow him.’ But the people did not answer him a word.” (1 Kings 18:21)

The image here is of someone hesitating between two opinions, first standing on one leg then on the other. Double-minded people want God, but they also want the world. They want the benefits of faith but they also want to keep their “pet sins.”

Jeremiah addressed the problem of double-minded, wicked thinking with hard words and described wicked thoughts as “lodged” or stuck in our hearts. “Wash your heart from evil, O Jerusalem, that you may be saved. How long will your wicked thoughts lodge within you?” (Jeremiah 4:14) To be the people God wants us to be, those wicked thoughts must be washed away.

The psalmist recognized doubled-minded thinking as an enemy he must fight against and that he couldn’t even fight his own thought tendencies, much less those of others. He also understood the path to victory was in God alone. Matthew Henry described it this way: He made God his hiding place from danger and his shield in danger. In a very real way, God was his “safe room.” There was no defender but God. No protection but the Almighty.

In addition to taking shelter under the protection of God, he took one more all- important action. He waited on God. We don’t always see waiting as an action, but it is. It’s eyes-on-God, holding still until He moves. The psalmist didn’t try to force a solution, demand results, or beg for a remedy. Instead, he simply took refuge under God’s shield and waited until the danger was past.

Pivot Point: In what areas are you double-minded? Do you have a pet sin you want to protect? Does it keep you from taking shelter under God’s shield and waiting on Him? How might you “choose a leg to stand on” concerning faith? What decision will you make today? Be sure to make notes about what God reveals to you.

Day 24: “Depart from me, evildoers, that I may observe the commandments of my God.” Psalm 119:115

We find the word “God” only once in Psalm 119 and it’s in this verse where He is described as “my God.” The psalmist uses this phrase to declare a personal and intimate relationship with our Heavenly Father. It’s one the “evildoers” to whom he refers obviously lack.

Depart is an imperative verb. It’s a command issued to people who are actively trying to damage his faith and draw him into sin. Since it’s hard to obey God in the midst of bad company, the psalmist draws a firm line. In a way, he’s saying, “I’m going to observe my God’s commands. If you’re not going to help me do that, you need to leave and don’t come back.” They are tough words and reflect the wisdom of Psalm 1:1. “How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked nor sit in the seat of scoffers!”

Consistently spending time with those in rebellion toward God will always make us less like Jesus, not more like Him. The psalmist’s words are not meant to be unkind but to draw a line of protection for himself and his walk of faith.

Pivot Point: Does time spent with your friends help you draw closer to God and make you more likely to obey or does it draw you away from Him? Do you have friends who indulge in ungodly language or unwise activities and encourage you to do the same?

If your friends are not helping you draw closer to God, it’s time to make a firm choice. Love your friends. Pray for them. Tell them about Jesus. Spend time with those who help you be more, not less, like the One you say you serve.

Day 25: “My eyes fail with longing for Thy salvation, and for Thy righteous word.” Psalm 119:123

The psalmist has waited for God to move in his circumstances, to bring salvation to his situation, but it feels as if it has been a long time in coming. He’s watched for God’s salvation for so long it feels as if his eyes are worn out.

There’s an important distinction, though. Although his eyes fail, his heart doesn’t. This is expectant waiting from a man whose faith does not depend on quick answers to prayer. Though God takes a long time to move, he doesn’t lose faith or hope. He knows God’s Word and he is confident God will do what He has said.

He will never fail us or forsake us. (Joshua 1:5) With the Lord there is lovingkindness, and with Him is abundant redemption. (Psalm 130:7) He knows us, understands us, and is intimately acquainted with all our ways. He surrounds us and keeps His hand on us. (Psalm 139:1-3)

Just as the psalmist counted on God to do what He said He would do, we, too, can trust Him to keep His Word to us, whether He tarries or not, His promises are firm.

Pivot Point: Are you waiting on God to move? Take heart and give thanks for the faithfulness of the only One who will never leave us nor forsake us. He always keeps His Word and His promises.

Day 26: “…I love Thy commandments above gold, yes, above fine gold.” Psalm 119:127

The gold referred to in this verse is not freshly mined ore but gold from which all the dross has been removed. It’s pure gold and, to some, a source of great riches. The psalmist, however, considers the value of God’s commandments are far above the worth of a mountain of gold. Take a few moments to look at the amount of gold King David accumulated for the temple. (See 1 Chronicles 22;14-15 and 1 Chronicles 29:2-3) He could’ve used those riches to indulge himself and live a lavish lifestyle. Instead, he accumulated the gold to give it away to build a house for His God.

In that same way, the psalmist recognizes that there is nothing on earth more precious than God and His word. “The judgments of the Lord are true; they are righteous altogether. They are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and the drippings of the honeycomb.” Psalm 19:10

Pivot Point: We demonstrate what we value by how we treat it. David laid his gold aside for the future temple his son would build. He considered it God’s gold, not his. Instead, he treasured the word of God, meditated on it. Spent time with it.

What do you consider of greatest value? What does the way you treat God’s word say about how much you value it? How much time do you spend in Scripture as compared to the amount of time you spend “doom scrolling” on social media?

You’ve probably heard that actions speak louder than words and it’s true. What do your actions say about your love of God and His Word? How might those actions need to change? What’s your first step?

Day 27: “The unfolding of Thy words gives light; it gives understanding to the simple.” Psalm 119:130

The word translated as “unfolding” comes from a root word meaning “to open” and can also be translated as “doorway” or “entrance.” The light it gives is a kind of illumination as if a door were opened into a dark place and allowed light, and understanding, to flood into the room.

The beautiful truth of this verse is that the understanding of God’s will is not reserved for the super-educated or the intellectually brilliant. Even a child or the most unlearned person can gain understanding simply by reading His Word.

This is a profound and astonishing truth. To comprehend the Word of God, we simply need to open the Word and read it. It provides all the illumination we need. Don’t miss this truth: Because of the divine unfolding, there are no acceptable excuses for lack of understanding. Is it instant comprehension? Not always. We begin to see when we begin to study. If we’re willing to stay the course, though, God’s Word is living and active and will accomplish the understanding we desire.

Pivot Point: Do I tend to cruise through difficult passages I don’t understand or tarry in a passage until the meaning is clear? How willing am I to continue in a section of Scripture until it gives me the light of understanding? What benefit could I receive from allowing God’s Word to unfold its truth in my heart? If there is a passage you’ve struggled with, now is a good time to open it again and ask God to illuminate, open, and explain what you cannot grasp on your own.

Day 28: “Turn to me and be gracious to me, after Thy manner with those who love Thy name.” Psalm 119:132

“The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them.” Psalm 34:7

“Turn to me” and “be gracious to me” are both imperative verbs. When spoken by God to us, they’re commands. The psalmist isn’t commanding God to do anything. He merely uses this verb tense to convey his desperate need for God to do what he asks. Turn. See me. Be gracious to me. Treat me as you do the ones who love you most.

The word translated as “be gracious” comes from a root work meaning to pitch, encamp, or bend down. In a way, the psalmist is asking God to lean down to him. It’s a request for companionship rather than a specific intervention.

The psalmist wants a special kind of gracious turning. “After the manner with those who love Thy name” suggests the psalmist wants to be treated like God’s favorites, those who love Him the most. He’s asking for the beautiful relationship Zechariah described as he prophesied about the coming King and Messiah.

“But I will camp around My house because of an army, because of him who passes by and returns; and no oppressor will pass over them anymore, for now I have seen with My eyes. Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion! Shout in triumph, O daughter of Jerusalem! Behold your King is coming to you; He is just and endowed with salvation, humble and mounted on a donkey, even on a colt, the foal of a donkey.”

Zechariah 9:8,9

Our Lord sees us, His daughters, and there will be a day when He comes to us, surrounds us, protects us from all enemies, and is with us.

Pivot Point: Am I confident enough in my relationship with our Lord to ask Him to look at me or would I rather hide because some of my less than godly choices? Do I want greater intimacy with Jesus? Am I willing to love Him with all my heart, mind, soul, and strength in order to have the kind of deep and loving relationship only He can give? If this is the desire of your heart, pray with the psalmist: Take note of me, Lord. See me. Surround me. Be gracious to me.

Day 29: “Establish my footsteps in Thy word, and do not let any iniquity have dominion over me. Psalm 119:133

The psalmist understands his own inclination toward sin and know it will not take him in the way he should go. He asks God to take action by establishing him in doing right and making his steps firm according God’s Word. He doesn’t want wrong desires to have mastery or power over him. Instead, he wants to be delivered from the power of sin and be directed in the path of life. He doesn’t ask for forgiveness of sin but for grace to avoid sin.

In our culture, we tend to want to direct our own steps, and often want to direct them using the standard everything except the Word of God. The psalmist knows the only

path that matters is God’s path. He wants to go forward with confidence and determination.

Pivot Point: Am I determined to avoid sin at all cost? Do I want to live a holy life? Am I determined to allow God to break sin’s power over me? Am I willing to choose the divine order of life and ask God to establish me in righteousness living?

Take a few moments to assess your own desire for holiness and ask God to do what’s needed to align your desires with His. Pray with the psalmist: “Get me on Your path, keep me on Your path, and don’t let me slide into sin for even a moment.”

Day 30: “My eyes shed streams of water, because they do not keep Thy law.” Psalm 119:136

Take a close look at the words of this verse. The psalmist isn’t weeping for himself. Instead, he is heartbroken by the sin of others. He weeps for a lost and perishing world. He understands the penalty of sin and the separation from God it causes. He longs for those around him to know the love and relationship he enjoys, but his heart aches because they do not know and do not want to know. Their love for their sin is so much greater than their love for God.

He expresses the same regret Jesus experienced as He lamented over Jerusalem. “How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling.” Matthew 3:37

If Jesus’ heart breaks for the lost who choose sin over Him, shouldn’t we feel the same?

Pivot Point: For whom do you weep? Who do you know who is far from the Lord and shows no evidence of turning to Him? Do you mourn for them? Are you praying diligently for them?

How might your persistent, diligent prayers impact their life? Their eternity?

Make a list of at least three people you know who are not following Jesus. Pray for them and commit to pray regularly for them. Consider the consequences of unbelief and pray as if their eternity hangs in the balance, because it does.

Day 31: “I am small and despised, yet I do not forget Thy precepts.” Psalm 119:141 The word translated as “small” can also mean young or insignificant. We don’t know the age of the psalmist as he wrote these words, but most of us can understand that feeling of insignificance.

Paul described himself and those who served alongside him as “unknown yet well known” (2 Corinthians 6:9) As Saul, he had a position of prominence as a religious leader but those days were over. After his conversion, everything changed. Paul spent

considerable time traveling from place to place to tell others about Jesus. He also spent quite a bit of time in prison. He was no longer well-known in his previous circles but the loss of status didn’t matter because He was well-known by the One who mattered most, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Both the psalmist and the Apostle Paul understood one vital truth. Their relationship with God was not about their feelings but about God’s truth. In that same way, their focus wasn’t on how well they were known or respected but on the Word of the Lord and their relationship with Him.

Pivot Point: Do you struggle with feelings of insignificance? Does it feel as if your faith experiences don’t matter to others? Do you feel as if you have nothing to give to the Kingdom of God? Take heart, sisters. It’s not about how we feel, it’s about what God’s Word says. We are known and loved by our God who always keeps His Word. Cling to the truth God has placed in your hands (in Scripture) and choose faith over feelings, truth over trembling. Speak aloud the truth you know and allow it to encourage and strengthen you today.

Day 32: “Trouble and anguish have come upon me; yet Thy commandments are my delight.” Psalm 119:143

“Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials.” James 1:2

The psalmist’s beautiful declaration is one of adoration, faith, and peace. He’s in a tight place of trouble with no clear way out. He feels anguish about the situation. Nevertheless, his focus is not on his circumstances but on God’s commands.

The Christian life is not always one of comfort and ease. Trials will come. We will experience anguish, sorrow, and affliction. We will rarely see the reason behind what God has allowed into our lives at the time of the trial but, like the psalmist, we can fall back on the certain truth that God is righteous, His commands are for our good, and He will use our difficult times to bring growth and make us more like Jesus.

James’ wise words about how to handle trials are as applicable to our lives today as they were more than two thousand years ago. Considering the entire trial as joy is a choice we must make, preferably at the beginning of the trial. Does this mean we have to enjoy the trial? No. Instead, we choose to rejoice in the midst of the hard time because we know God’s Word is certain, faithful, and true. He is at work in the circumstances and in us. The end goal is not pain but maturity.

Pivot Point: Have you ever experienced a painful time of hardship? Did it feel as if there was no way out? Are you in the midst of a hard trial now? Is your first response to grumble and complain about the trial? Do you immediately begin to seek a way out of the trial or do you thank God for the circumstances He’s allowed and ask Him to complete His perfect work in you? Regardless of the circumstances you face, stop now and actively choose joy. Ask God to reveal one way in which He is working in your trial

and be sure to thank Him for the opportunity to grow and the certain outcome of greater maturity.

Day 33: “I cried with all my heart…I cried to Thee…I rise before dawn and cry for help…” from Psalm 119:145-147

“the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” Galatians 6:17

These verses are not a description of an emotional response to circumstances but a description of ongoing prayer. When the psalmist uses the word translated as “cried,” he doesn’t mean he has been weeping nonstop. Instead, he has “called out” to God in prayer with diligence and intensity and he continues to do so. He rises early in the morning to pray and call out to God. He does so with the expectation that God will answer him and will not stop calling out until He does.

In the eight verses from 145-152, he mentions God’s statutes, testimonies, Word, ordinances, and His truth. These are all words used to describe Scripture. The psalmist is using the Scripture he knows to help him pray.

It’s what Paul intended when he wrote to the church in Galatia about our spiritual armor. The only offensive weapon we have is the Sword of the Spirit, the Word of God. As the psalmist prays, he consistently makes mention of Scripture.

Pivot Point: Is your prayer time more of a recitation of needs and wants or a conversation with God? Whose words matter more in your prayers—yours or God’s (as found in Scripture)?

If praying Scripture is not a regular part of your prayer life, look at the model prayer found in Matthew 6:9-13 and take note of how Jesus directed us to pray, especially in the area of asking. We are to request our daily needs, forgiveness, and protection from evil. Most importantly, though, before any of these asks, we are to ask for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven.

Today, as you approach God in prayer, begin by praying the best prayer of all. “Your will be done…” in every area about which you are concerned. Feel free to tell God what you think you need and want, but acknowledge up front that His ways are best and ask for His will.

Day 34: “My eyes anticipate the night watches, that I may meditate on Thy word.” Psalm 119:148

“When I remember You on my bed, I meditate on You in the night watches, for You have been my help, and in the shadow of Your wings I sing for joy. My soul clings to You; Your right hand upholds me.” Psalm 63:6-8

Does Psalm 119:148 startle you a little? Yes, the psalmist looks forward to late nights

because they give him extra time to meditate on God’s Word. Like most of us, his days were busy and probably non-stop. We already know he rose before dawn to spend time with God but here he tells us he can’t wait for night time so he can have more time to meditate on the goodness of God and His Word. Even after he retires at night, he spends time meditating on God and His Word, remembering the ways God has helped and protected him, and singing for joy to the Lord, and clinging to Him.

In a very real way, he sacrifices sleep in order to spend time with God.

Pivot Point: How do you spend the night hours? Do you collapse into bed and instantly fall asleep or look forward to a bit quiet time to meditate on the goodness of God? Do you thank Him for the ways He’s helped and moved on your behalf, and simply express your love for Him? Tonight, set aside the first few minutes after you retire to meditate on God’s goodness and express your gratitude and love. As the psalmist did, thank God for all He’s done for you and all the ways you saw His hand during the day. Remember Him in the night watches and make it a vital part of your schedule.

Day 35: “I rejoice at Thy word as one who finds great spoil.” Psalm 119:162

When the psalmist uses the word “spoil,” he’s not talking about moldy bread or soured milk. “Spoil” refers to the treasure found by victorious soldiers on the bodies of their defeated enemies left on the field of battle after the war is done. The treasure varied and might include money, jewelry, clothing, weapons, food, and more. Each item was a kind of prize.

In that same way, the psalmist digs into Scripture with the diligence of battle. He wants the treasure to be found and he does the work to dig it out. Every nugget of truth is precious, of great value, and cause for much celebration.

Pivot Point: When you study the Bible, do you go deep to understand each word and phrase? Do you search out other similar passages to compare them and deepen your understanding? When there’s something you don’t understand, do you skip over it and dig for the treasure of truth hidden there?

Today, take one verse and use online study helps (blueletterbible.com is a great place to start) to find the meaning of every word in the verse. Are any verbs imperative (or command) verbs? What deeper truth can you learn when you dig beneath the surface? Keep at it until you find something about which you can rejoice.

Day 36: Seven times a day I praise Thee, because of Thy righteous ordinances.” Psalm 119:164

As the psalmist nears the end of the psalm, he emphasizes the amount of time he spends praising God. This is not intercessory prayer for others nor asking for himself. He simply

stops seven times throughout his day specifically to praise God. Why? Because of God’s Word and His righteous ordinances. The psalmist loves God’s word because he understands it is a communication directly from God Himself. Scripture directs his thoughts, his actions, and his schedule.

Pivot Point: How might you stop seven times in a day to praise God? You divide the minutes of the day by seven and stop every three hours and 25 minutes. It would work, but it might make for a difficult schedule. Another way would be to specifically stop to praise God when you wake up, when you start your work, at every meal, when you end your work, and at bedtime. Don’t ask for anything. Simply offer praise and thanksgiving. Praise God seven times a day for the next seven days. Start today. Use an alert on your phone if you need help remembering. How does this much praise change your day?

Day 37: “Those who love Thy law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble.” Psalm 119:165

The psalmist isn’t talking about perfect obedience to the law but a deep and abiding love for the law, the word of God. It’s the kind of love that results in obedience and leads to the deep shalom of complete peace with God.

The word translated as “nothing” means there is not even one thing that exists that can cause us to stumble or entice and force us to sin. Ponder this truth for a moment. Those who love God’s Word are also those who allow the Word to direct and change their lives. They are no longer people who follow their own desires or the ways of the world. Instead, they love the law, they know the law, and they follow the law. We’ve mentioned this before, but it’s a good time to remember it today. Jesus summed up the law with two clear commands. Love God with every part of your being. Love your neighbor as yourself. When love is the path you follow, there’s no room for rebellion.

Pivot Point: The God who created the heavens and the earth, who sustains life as we know it, and directs and controls all that happens in this world and in heaven, loved us enough to give us His Word, clear directions in living, and extensive explanations about who He is and what He expects from those He loves. When we pause to consider the enormity of that truth, we must adjust how we view Scripture and respond with love, obedience, and thanksgiving for such a divine gift.

Do you have perfect peace because of your love for God and His Word? Does love direct your path? Do you know and rely on His Word to keep you from stumbling?

Today, ask God to give you the kind of love for His Word that keeps you on His path and protects you from sin. Demonstrate your love by reading and meditating on His word today and every day.

Day 38: “I keep Thy precepts and Thy testimonies, for all my ways are before Thee.” Psalm 119:168

We are seen and known. God is omniscient. He knows what we do in the darkness and what we do in the light. As the psalmist says, all our ways are “before” Him.

God knows. He knows our thoughts, our words, and our deeds.

That’s a sobering thought, isn’t it? Maybe you’re like most of us. Not every thought is one we’d like to share with God, but He knows anyway.

The psalmist approaches the omniscience of God without fear or shame. Instead, he uses his understanding of God’s attributes (all knowing, all seeing, ever present) to direct his life. He chooses his thoughts, words, and actions in a godly way because he knows God will see them and He wants to please Him. It’s an example we all should follow.

Pivot Point: Since hiding from God is not one of our options, why not use His omniscience as a reason to guard your heart, choose your thoughts and words wisely, and make your actions loving and kind.

Take a few minutes to consider your thoughts, words, and actions over the last week. How many were pleasing to God? Were there any you wish you could hide from Him? Ask Him to forgive and direct change where needed.

Day 39: “Let my lips utter praise…Let my tongue sing of Thy word…Let my soul live that it may praise Thee…” from Psalm 119:171-175

The word translated as “utter” means to pour out or bubble over. The psalmist’s prayer is for overflowing praise in every area of his life. He not only wants to speak and sing God’s praise but he asks to live in such a way that even his actions will praise God. This praise is not a natural inclination but a learned behavior as a result of the time he spends in God’s Word. He’s learned to praise through loving and studying God’s Word and it’s an overflow of his deep and abiding relationship with the Most High God.

Pivot Point: Does praise to God automatically bubble out from your mouth and flow from your life? Do you take delight in sharing the goodness of God with others? Do you live to praise God? Do you praise God more now than when you first knew Him? If not, why not? Take some time today to praise God with your words, sing praises with your mouth, and take action with your life to bring praise to Him. Ask God to help you make overflowing praise a consistent part of your life.

Day 40: “I have gone astray like a lost sheep, seek Thy servant, for I do not forget Thy commandments.” Psalm 119:176

The psalmist has written extensively about his love for and study of God’s word. Those hours of meditation and discipline have not led to pride or arrogance but greater humility. He understands his tendency to stray and his need for a Savior. Like all of us, he knows he is apt to wander like sheep. They need a shepherd because sheep can’t find

their way back by themselves. In that same way, the psalmist acknowledges his sin and his utter reliance upon the grace of God to keep him and the Word of God to guide him.

The psalmist does not celebrate his sin or rehash how many wrong choices he made in the past. He’s not “stuck in his testimony,” with a detailed description of all the bad things he’s ever done, as if the only thing God had done for him was forgive and save him. Instead, he’s admitting his need for God and reliance on the ongoing love of God and the power of the Word of God to keep him on the path God has for him.

Pivot Point: When we’re asked to give our testimony, it’s very common to relate the mountain of sin we had in the past and that salvation moment when we first recognized and confessed our sin, repented, asked God to save us, and turned to God’s way. It’s less common to relate the amazing ways God moves in the days and years following our salvation experience. In a way, we have a salvation testimony, a discipleship testimony (as God leads us to know and grow more like Him), and our present testimony (what God is doing now in our lives).

Take a few moments today to think about and write out your salvation testimony. Follow this with a testimony of how God has led you and made you more like Jesus. How has He moved in your life in the last few years? Finish with a present testimony of what God is doing now. How is He currently moving and working in you?

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When you sign in at Whisper, you’ll have the opportunity to sign up for a “matchstick” testimony. This is a 2-3 minute (max) testimony of how God is at work in your life now. Take a few minutes to consider how you might condense your testimony. “I was a sinner, but God saved me and now…” Sharing your “matchstick testimony” at Whisper Gathering is completely optional, but we do hope you’ll pray about sharing it with someone over the next few weeks. It’s good practice, and the testimony of how God is at work will be an encouragement both for you and the one with whom you share.