For many years, I written out my prayers during times of personal devotion. I've found that this practice helps me not only see specific answers to prayer, but also to pray more intelligently while focusing on God and his glory. Instead of writing out a meditation this morning, I'm posting a personal prayer to give you … Continue reading Pleasant places, Psalm 16
Dwelling on a holy hill, Psalm 15
About 30 miles north of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the spires of a basilica known as "Holy Hill" pierce the sky. The spires direct thoughts upward in praise of the Creator who made not only the beautiful countryside and high peak on which the basilica catches the morning light, but also the architects who designed and the builders … Continue reading Dwelling on a holy hill, Psalm 15
Fool’s gold, Psalm 14
What do you treasure in your heart? Do you seek genuine gold? Or is your life a vain pursuit of fool's gold? Psalm 14 defines a fool as someone who does not believe in God: The fool says in his heart, “There is no God.” They are corrupt, they do abominable deeds, there is none … Continue reading Fool’s gold, Psalm 14
Bountiful dealings, Psalm 13
Do you ever feel as if God has forgotten you? Does it feel as if he's hidden his face from you forever? You're not alone! Many believers have often felt isolated and alienated, including that psalm master, David. No psalmist conveys the range of human emotions better than David. In his short Psalm 13, he cries from … Continue reading Bountiful dealings, Psalm 13
The godless society of Psalm 12
If you live in a godless society, this psalm's for you. Wait, I guess that's everyone. David begins with a lament that very likely echoes Noah's feelings before the flood: Save, O Lord, for the godly one is gone; for the faithful have vanished from among the children of man. Everyone utters lies to his … Continue reading The godless society of Psalm 12
The Lord in His Temple, Psalm 11
Yesterday Christians attended church to worship God in his temple, but his temple extends far beyond the four walls of any earthly facility. Psalm 11 reminds us that no matter what happens in life God is in his temple. When we are under attack, we can take refuge in the Lord. Verses 1-3 (ESV) affirm … Continue reading The Lord in His Temple, Psalm 11
Hidden God, Psalm 10
The writer of Psalm 10 wonders why God seems hidden during times of trouble. While the righteous psalmist laments a hidden God, the wicked man revels in God's hidden face. The psalmist opens by questioning God: Why, O Lord, do you stand far away? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble? He asks … Continue reading Hidden God, Psalm 10
Wicked are judged, Psalm 9
If world events discourage you or other people attack you or personal problems oppress you, read Psalm 9. David writes this psalm as if God has already judged the wicked and put an end to evil. He begins by wholeheartedly thanking God and declaring his goodness: I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I … Continue reading Wicked are judged, Psalm 9
Majestic Name, Psalm 8
When our children were small, Psalm 8 was one of the first psalms I taught them. We rocked imaginary babies in our arms, we flexed arm muscles, we looked up, we wiggled our fingers, we drew moon circles in the air, and wiggled our fingers again for the sparkling stars. Now I'm teaching it to my almost … Continue reading Majestic Name, Psalm 8
Torn Soul, Psalm 7
When someone circulates lies and unjust accusations against you, read Psalm 7. The superscription tells us that David sang this psalm to the Lord concerning the words of Cush, a Benjaminite. Since Saul was from the tribe of Benjamin, Cush may have been one of Saul's relatives. From the context of the psalm, Cush apparently … Continue reading Torn Soul, Psalm 7
Glenda Faye Mathes 