Psalm 25:1-10
Prayer for Guidance and Deliverance

God of the poor
Liberator of the oppressed
I lift my weary soul to you, 
I trust in you O Creator
bring honor and dignity to my life.

Deliver me from my feelings of shame,
remove the fear I feel
when the quality of my life is diminished
because empty pockets cannot produce meals
do not let those who oppress me shame and blame me.

I am labeled as poor in pocket and spirit
society names me as an enemy of many 
who pretend they do not see me
as I stand in the streets with my children 
begging for crumbs to eat.

Do not let me be put to shame for my life
let them be ashamed for not caring
let them be ashamed for their lack of concern
let them be ashamed for upholding the status quo
let them be ashamed as they line their pockets with my pain.

Teach me your paths, Creator
reveal to me the truths of living from the abundance of life
in this world where injustice is rampant
show me your path and lead me as I wait on you
for you are the God of my salvation.

What have I done to inherit this life 
living in a world where worth is acquainted with material wealth
a world where the poor are living on the edges of communities?
What sins of my youth render me undeserving
of the dignity and respect of being made in your image?

Love me as I am O God 
keep me on all your paths
and sustain me in the fullness of my spiritual flourishing
provide for me from the abundance of your faithfulness
and I will live.