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We are continuing our series of reflections on the Psalms. Each day we will upload a new reflection to the website. We hope and pray that you will find them helpful and that they bring hope during this season. Click on these buttons to read the text of the psalm or listen to a recording of it. You can also listen to the reflection using the audio player below. Read Psalm 64  Listen to Psalm 64 Sticks and stones will break my bones… This psalm is written by David. It’s a psalm of complaint, a plea for help. David asks to be protected from his dread and fear of his enemy. He is not asking to be delivered from the enemy but from his fear. The word dread is defined as ‘to anticipate with great apprehension or fear.’ I am going to be presumptuous to say that, at times, we have all feel dread. David knows people are planning his downfall - their tools are words, he says they aim their speech like a bow and arrow, they do not fear. They plan… The analogy of the use of a bow and arrow shows how calculated the archer is. They spot their target and take a calculated measured aim; it’s a considered action planning to hit the bullseye. However, although David knows this is happening, he hands it over to God, he pleas for God to intervene to deal with his fear. This psalm shows his great faith and trust in God; he knows God will bring them to ruin. David uses words of faith and is trusting that eventually the situation will show the goodness of God. Philippians 4:6-7 reminds us “do not be anxious about anything”. It’s hard to stay in a place of prayer, not to give up and give in when we have times of dread and fear, but this psalm reminds us of the value of faith and trust in God. Have a David attitude! Lord, you know our fears and our dread, help us to turn to you, to be persistent in prayer and to trust in your presence in the situation. Let your goodness shine through.