“Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings.” Psalm 17:8

Dear Heavenly Father, I remember how wonderful it made me feel as a small child when my parents would show me special attention. I can still feel their hugs. Encouraging words that were said years ago still hang in the walls of my heart like trophies. When they were there to see me shine on the athletic field, the game always took on more meaning. Even their loving discipline is a memory I cherish. Now I read this prayer from the psalmist who asks you to keep him as the apple of your eye. You are our heavenly Father and you count each one of us as precious in your sight. We are the apple of your eye. I still feel like a nobody at times on this lost planet. It fills my life with meaning when I read in your word that you give me special attention. All I ask is that you keep me as the apple of your eye and hide me in the shadow of your wings. I need the security of your love to face dehumanizing health struggles and calloused disregard from people. Your attention by your Holy Spirit to guide, correct and comfort me make me feel the way I did when my parents hugged me. In your mercy, keep me as the apple of your eye. Amen.

God’s attention is always on his children.