Psalms to Meet the Heart and Soul

     The Psalms cry out to God and give voice to our human thoughts and feelings. The writers seek answers, as we do. The Psalmist cries out in pain, and mirrors our grief. The Psalms praise God through the ups and downs of life, as we should. If you are searching, grieving, seeking forgiveness, or praising God, the Psalms will echo in your heart and soul. Seek God in them. Find comfort and hope in them. The human condition is found there.

     The word “Psalms” can be translated in the Hebrew or Greek as “praises,” or “songs of praise.” Many of these words were set to music and the ancient Jews sang them as they set out for the temple. (The Psalms of Ascent) Others are Psalms of lament that cry out to God. Many of the Psalms were penned by King David, others attributed to various writers, including one as far back as Moses. We will look at a few this week.

     Whatever season of life, whatever emotion, whether in joy or a sorrow, you will find words you can use to pray and to praise. The following is a favorite Psalm for many, a reminder of where we need to look to find our peace and our protection.

I will lift up my eyes to the hills-my help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip-He who watches over you will not slumber. Indeed, He who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The Lord watches over you-the Lord is your shade at your right hand. The sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The Lord will keep you from all harm-He will watch over your life. The Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121

     This Psalm was sung as the Israelites traveled up to the temple of God, a Psalm of ascent. Whatever the future, God holds us in the palm of His hands. He will watch over our lives, our coming and going, now and forevermore. Hallelujah! Look up to the One watching over you.

Father,

We thank You for the Word of God, for these songs of praise written in the Psalms. You watch over us, protect us and love us as we look up to praise You.

Amen