Through the ages men have found strength and beauty and truth in the 150 songs of praise that we know as the Book of Psalms. Composed centuries ago, passed along by succeeding generations even before there was a written language, their poetry has proven a durable guide for all men in their quest for God. Christ Himself was guided by the Psalms—in word and in spirit—and today they offer spiritual insight for you.
Here are some helpful selections. Find a quiet place; take time to absorb their wisdom. And in the pages of your Bible, seek out the Psalms in their complete glory.
FOR HOPE: In Thee, O Lord, do I put my trust: let me never be put to confusion . . . Thou art my rock and my fortress. Deliver me, O my God, out of the hand of the wicked, out of the hand of the unrighteous and cruel man. For Thou art my hope, O Lord God: Thou art my trust from my youth. (Psalm 71: 1, 3, 4, 5)
FOR COURAGE: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?…Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart… (Psalm 27: 1, 14)
READ MORE: THE UNBELIEVABLE COMFORT OF THE PSALMS
FOR HELP IN TIME OF TROUBLE: Though I walk in the midst of trouble, Thou wilt revive me: Thou shall stretch forth Thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and Thy right hand shall save me. The Lord will perfect that which concerneth me: Thy mercy, O Lord, endureth forever…(Psalm 138: 7, 8)
FOR COMFORT IN SORROW: Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed. Delight thyself also in the Lord; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. (Psalm 37: 3—5)
FOR GUIDANCE: I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined unto me, and heard my cry. He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth…(Psalm 40: 1—3)
FOR FULFILLMENT OF DREAMS: He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds…Great is our Lord, mighty in power; His wisdom is unsearchable. The Eternal has relief for the afflicted. (Psalm 147: 3, 5, 6)
FOR SERENITY: The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. (Psalm 23: 1—4)
