Standin' in the Need of Prayer

Arranged by Henry T. Burleigh (1866-1949)

Sung by John Bohman; Mary Kay Burton, piano

Standin' in the Need of Prayer

(Refrain)

It’s me, it’s me O Lord - standin’ in the need of prayer.

It’s me, it’s me O Lord - standin’ in the need of prayer.

Not my brother nor my sister, but it’s me, O Lord,

Standin’ in the need of prayer.

Not my brother nor my sister, but it’s me, O Lord,

Standin’ in the need of prayer. (Refrain)

Not my mother nor my father, but it’s me, O Lord.

Standin’ in the need of prayer

Not my mother nor my father, but it’s me, O Lord.

Standin’ in the need of prayer. (Refrain)

Not my Deacon nor my Elder, but it’s me, O Lord,

Standin’ in the need of prayer.

Not my Deacon nor my Elder, but it’s me, O Lord,

Standin’ in the need of prayer. (Refrain)

One of the ways humans experience trouble is in their minds: “I’m troubled in mind,” in the words of a spiritual by that name. There’s not just one reason, but many reasons why we might be “standin’ in the need of prayer” - a need that no one can fill but Jesus. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but an admission that there are troubles beyond our capability to handle them, difficulties for which the one and only solution is to reach out to a being greater than we are - Jesus.

Jesus is essential to our survival - in the words of the song: “not my mother, nor my father; not my Deacon nor my Elder, not my sister nor my brother.” All of those people can offer us comfort and support in challenging times, but only Jesus can help us fully regain our equilibrium. That doesn’t mean that medicine can’t help, but let’s face it: Jesus is the real doctor. Jesus wants us to live wholly and fully, and stands ready to help each and everyone who asks.

Prayer for the Day: (Psalm 31: 9-10; 14-16)

Be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am in distress; My eye wastes away from grief,

my soul and body also. For my life is spent with sorrow, and my years with sighing; My strength fails because of my misery, and my bones waste away.

But I trust in you, O Lord; I say, “You are my God.”

My times are in your hand; deliver me from the hand of my enemies and persecutors. Let your face shine upon your servant; Save me in your steadfast love.