By: Paula Short
Jesus, there's so much I want to say, but I don't know how to say it to you. Sometimes, the words are on the tip of my tongue, but I can't get them out.
Sound familiar? Do you ever struggle to find the right words when you pray? Friend, I'm here to tell you, I've been there too.
When the words are in my heart but get stuck coming out of my mouth, my go-to for prayer is the Psalms.
Out of the 150 Psalms, there is something for every circumstance, season, or emotion. The writers of the psalms poured the true rawness of their hearts out to God, whether they were crying out in anguish or singing with Joy and celebration and everything in between.
What prayer topics can I find in the Psalms? Among many, let's look at 12.
—Praise and worship God
—Thanksgiving, gratitude and celebration
—Healing and strength
—Questions we may ask include if only, how long and why
—Evening and morning prayers
—Family and faith
—Intersession
—Community and individual
—Lament
—Salvation
—Anxiety
—Joy, peace, and comfort
People throughout history have used the Psalms as a prayer. Pastors throughout history have taught their flock using the Psalms in Sermons, Bible studies, teaching, etc. Maybe you, too, use the Psalms as part of your prayer life.
So how do I pray using the Psalms?
- Just read them from your heart.
- Sing them.
- Use them as your own words, and feel those words; they're coming from your heart, remember?
- Use your imagination and imagine what you're reading from your heart. Imagine yourself speaking these words to God.
- Use them as topics based on your needs.
- Meditate on them.
- Allow God to direct you.
- Memorize some.
- Paraphrase.
Let's pray the 23rd Psalm as an example.
Abba, you are my shepherd, my provider; there isn't anything I need. You make me lay down in green pastures, inviting me to take a deep breath of the air you created. Thank you for leading me beside still waters, enabling me to receive your living water. Though some of my paths may be narrow and rocky, you said they are the right way too. When I face dark seasons, you said I don't need to be afraid because you are comforting and always with me. As I sat at your table, you anointed my head with oil as my haters looked on. My heart overflows with your love. I am thankful that your goodness and love will be with me all my days. I can't wait until I live with you in your house forever.
Don't worry if learning to pray with the Psalms takes time. It took me a while to learn and listen to my heart so that I could insert my feelings into the Psalms.
Reflection
Do you pray the Psalms?
Do you have any other ideas to offer someone when praying the Psalms?
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