Psalm 6: Miserable Without God

O Lord, I cannot bear this separation from you.

Discipline me, yes, but not while you are angry.

Correct me because you love me;

redirect my footsteps on the path of your perfect will.

My lonely heart searches but cannot find you.

Guilt and shame have settled into my bones,

aching and restless.

Show me your compassion because I am frail

and helpless without you.

Soothe my body, which groans in despair,

and my heart, which yearns for your friendship.

Comfort me with the sound of your voice

calling me by my name once again.

I cannot go on like this.

I feel near death,

as useless as someone already in the grave,

unable to sing praises to my God.

I cannot sleep but lie awake on my bed,

weeping endless tears,

ruminating on my selfish acts,

worrying about what comes next.

Rescue me, Lord!

I know you will

because you hear my prayers.

You answer my cries for help.

When you are with me, I am strong

and my enemies cannot overtake me.

Run from me, all you enemies

who tempt and tease me

with illusory pleasures.

I will not go down your paths

but will stay close to my God,

who loves and forgives me

and heals me from the wounds of my sins.