Praying with the Bible: Engaging with the Psalms

19 Jul 2021

The Psalms are the prayer book in the Bible, and we can use these ancient words in our own conversation with God. Such as what I did when I was reading Psalm 26. I found myself talking to God, wanting to query some of the statements David made. Here’s how it went…

Vindicate me
A big word; a very big word
It asks for release
I have led a blameless life
But no I haven’t
How can he pray this?
I have trusted in the Lord
Yes, I have
I have not faltered
Well, no, I’ve not
Test me, Lord, and try me
Really? I’m not so sure
Remember that adage
Be careful what you pray for…
Test me? I’m not so sure
Examine my heart and my mind
Yes, I want this
Or at least I want to want this
For I have always been mindful of your love
Your unfailing love
I fear not always – always is a big word
But I know your love is unfailing
I’ve relied on your faithfulness
When I’ve needed to
Definitely when I’ve needed to

I do not sit with the deceitful
Nor associate with hypocrites
Um, sorry, how can he say this?
When I know I myself am a huge hypocrite?
I wash my hands in innocence
Nope, can’t say that either…
I proclaim aloud your praise
And tell of your wonderful deeds
Now this I can do
Yes! I love to tell of your work in my life

Lord, I love the house where you live
The place your glory dwells
Oh how lovely is your house!
Take not my soul with the sinners
My life with those who thirst for blood
In whose hands are wicked schemes
Yes, I can affirm this
I lead a blameless life
Still not sure how he can say this
Deliver me and be merciful to me
Oh yes, Lord – deliver me
Be merciful to me

My feet stand on level ground
Rooted to the earth, Lord
Let me be rooted to the earth
In the great congregation I will praise you.