Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on the themes from the sermon.

🕊️ 5-Day Devotional — God Is Near in the Trouble (Psalm 34)

Day 1: A Song from Desperation

Read: Psalm 34:1–7 Focus: God is near to the brokenhearted.

Reflection: David didn’t write this psalm in a palace—he wrote it after pretending to be insane to escape an enemy king. It’s from that place of desperation that he says, “I will bless the Lord at all times.” Are you able to say that—even in trouble?

Prayer Prompt: Lord, help me to praise You not just after rescue, but in the middle of fear.Action

Step: Begin your day by writing down one thing you’re thankful for, even in hardship.

Day 2: Crying Out vs. Shutting Down

Read: Psalm 34:6, 17–19 Focus: The righteous cry out—and are heard.

Reflection: David said, “This poor man cried out.” He could’ve hidden his weakness, but instead he cried to the Lord. What do you usually do with desperation—hide it, fix it, or cry out?

Prayer Prompt: Father, teach me to be poor in spirit and quick to cry out to You.Action Step:

Share a prayer request or personal burden with a trusted friend today.

Day 3: The Surrounding Presence of God

Read: Psalm 34:7, 18 Focus: The Lord surrounds those who fear Him.

Reflection: Scripture paints a beautiful picture: God encamps around His people like an army surrounding a city. Not to trap them—but to protect them. Where do you feel most alone right now?

Prayer Prompt: Jesus, help me feel the truth that You are surrounding me even when I can’t see it.

Action Step: Imagine a place in your life where you feel exposed or anxious—then say aloud, “God surrounds me here.”

Day 4: The Refuge that Never Fails

Read: Psalm 34:8–10 Focus: Taste and see—the Lord is good.

Reflection: “Refuge” usually means tolerable shelter. But in God’s presence, refuge becomes the destination. The place we never want to leave. Are you treating God as your escape—or your dwelling place?

Prayer Prompt: Lord, teach me to love Your presence—not just run to it in emergencies

.Action Step: Set a timer for 5 minutes and simply rest in silence with God today. Don’t do—just be.

Day 5: Jesus Took the Dive

Read: Psalm 34:20; John 19:36Focus: Jesus entered our trouble to bring us home.

Reflection: The psalm says “not one of His bones will be broken.” Jesus fulfilled that exactly. Why? Because He is the Righteous One who cried out for us and was heard—so we could be held forever.

Prayer Prompt: Thank You, Jesus, for diving into suffering so I would never be alone.

Action Step: Share a story of God's rescue or faithfulness with someone who needs hope today.