Monday, April 15, 2019

Pray the Psalms



The Book of Psalms is not just a collection of poetic songs about King David and other wise kings and figures. The Psalms are written for us to apply! "All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (2 Timothy 3:17, NKJV). These poems are real-life experiences from believers of the past. Just like us, they suffered emotionally, physically, and even spiritually. But what's important is that they never lost their faith in God for deliverance. They sought the Lord, repented, worshipped, and praised their way to victory. Today, God wants us to read these words so that we may be encouraged and uplifted to persevere in this great walk of faith!

The psalms and other wisdom scriptures may be used as declarations and confessions of faith.

The expectation is for you to PRAY THE PSALMS (Speak them in prayer in place of your words) because they will reap spiritual benefits. Of course, you are to talk to God in your own intimate way. There's no rules. The purpose is to read them aloud often because the verses are God's inspired words with creative power to change your circumstances. Sometimes, we pray in ignorance, selfishness, or confusion. Thankfully, we have the scriptures available for our everyday use. There's no better way to pray than to pray according to God's Word because they're HIS words! So, speak His Word back to Him! With His own words, God created everything that exists. So why not use your authority as a believer and speak the Word over your life?



Below is a list of examples to encourage you to seek the Lord in both good and bad times.

Psalm 1: (one of my favorites!) This contrasts the prosperous lives of the righteous from the foolish lives of the wicked. vv.1-3 are great to meditate and declare.

Psalm 13: A prayer to trust God's timing.

Psalm 19: God's creation reveals His power.

Psalm 22: From suffering to joy.

Psalm 23: God cares for you.

Psalm 32: Forgiveness brings joy.

Psalm 91: God protects you. (I pray some of these verses daily!)

Psalm 116: God will deliver you. Be thankful always.

Psalm 131: Trust and contentment.

Psalm 139: A hymn of praise.

Psalm 146: Seek and trust God for help before running to people.

This exercise is inspired by an assignment in my course "Old Testament Poetry & Wisdom" at Colorado Christian University. For a further example and inspiration, you may check out my Psalm 116 project on YouTube [https://youtu.be/SBh2sSa_9tw]. Don't forget to subscribe to my channel!

(Bible Journey Book)




My 22-Day Devotional on Psalm 119 is available on Amazon both Paperback and eBook. Get yours today! [https://www.amazon.com/Psalm-119-Devotional-Diaries-daughter/dp/1539676641/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=]


Blessings 

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