simar@tds.net
www.candacesimar.com
The Book of Psalms is a collection of one hundred fifty lyrical poems and songs included in the Bible. You can read them for yourselves. Many people read a psalm a day. Through the centuries the Psalms have blessed and encouraged millions with the unique thread of hope that winds through every verse.
Sometimes we forget that the Psalms were written by real people. Yes, they were divinely inspired by God to pen the words on the page—OK, papyrus back then—but the writers were ordinary people with real struggles and experiences. Each psalm tells someone’s story. How they were lost and then found. How they suffered and were delivered from suffering. How they were at their wit’s end and hoped only in God. Topics include war, sickness, suffering, and governmental chaos. Some are beautiful prayers of thanksgiving. Others are prayers spoken in desperation through gritted teeth.
In you O Lord I have taken refuge; let me never be put to shame. Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness, turn your ear to me and save me. Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go. Give the command to save me. For you are my rock and my fortress. Psalm 71:1-3 NIV
It’s always good to start with the facts. King David honestly stated his problem. But he didn’t dwell upon his needs or end his prayer with a grocery- list of requests. David, the man after God’s own heart, ended with the positive declaration of who God’s protection.
For you have been my hope, O Sovereign Lord, my confidence since my youth.
Psalm 71:5 NIV
My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long. Psalm 71:8 NIV
David reminded God of their long relationship and gave Him praise and thanksgiving for past blessings.
Be not far from me, O God; come quickly, O my God, to help me. Psalm 71:12 NIV
Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, O God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your might to all who are to come. Psalm 71:18 NIV
Though David was in trouble, he focused more on God’s goodness and splendor than his own issues. Thanking God put his problems in perspective and helped him refocus on his life’s goals.
Though you have made me see troubles, many and bitter, you will restore my life again; from the depths of the earth you will again bring me up. You will increase my honor and comfort me once again. Psalm 71:20-21 NIV
David didn’t sugar coat the issues but declared that God would turn things around in his favor. David doubtless encouraged himself….as we are encouraged by this passage thousands of years later.
What is your story? If you were to write a psalm about your life, what would you say? Be honest. It doesn’t have to be pretty. It’s between you and God. List the ways He has helped you in the past and thank Him for what He’s done in your life. Acknowledge your need for help. Pray for His strength to keep you until you’ve accomplished your goals. List your failures and weaknesses… but don’t stop there. Turn your life experiences into a song of praise.
P.S. I’d love to read the psalm you write. Send me yours and I’ll send you mine.
