just like a little bird

Today during chapel at Regent College, the president preached about Psalm 84 and later mentioned Psalm 73, as J.I. Packer's favorite psalm. I love how the psalmist calls us into a life of prayerful worship. 

Psalm 73: "But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled, my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked (...) Nevertheless, I am continually with you; you hold my right hand. You guide me with your counsel, and afterward you will receive me to glory. Whom have I in heaven but you? And there is nothing on earth that I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. (...) but for me it is good to be near God; I have made the Lord God my refuge, that I may tell of all your works."

Psalm 84: "How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts! My soul longs, yes, faints for the courts of the Lord; (...) Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God. Blessed are those who dwell in your house, ever singing your praise!"

It is so true. My feet almost stumbled, my steps almost slipped, attracted by the excitement that money and a prosperous career can offer. Nevertheless, I am with you and you are with me. You constantly surprise me with your right hand laying upon me. You guide me with your counsel, and more than that: you will receive me to glory! What a hopeful expectation! How can I give my heart to the things of this world? Lord, help me so that my flesh and heart may not fail or fall for the luxuries of the world. You are my strength and my portion, each day. Grant me the blessing of being just like a little bird that settles its nest in your dwelling place. May I be planted in your altar, and find home in your holy presence.