Using the Psalms to Pray
I. Kindling wood for the fires of prayer when it’s tough to get started
a. When unmotivated (inspiring prayers): Psalm 1, 19, 27, 91, 103, 107
b. When feeling faithless (great reminders of the basis of our faith): Psalm 48, 74, 77, 78, 81, 105, 106, 111, 119
II. Learning how to worship, praise and give thanks to God
a. Adoration and praise, worship and thanks: Psalm 8, 9, 24, 29, 45, 47, 87, 92-93, 95-96, 98-99, 100, 104, 113, 117, 133-135, 136, 146-150
b. Special affection to God (some of the most intimate prayers): Psalm 18, 42, 63, 84, 116, 139, 145
III. Where to turn in the Psalms when feeling overwhelmed or discouraged
a. When overwhelmed (need to trust God): Psalm 16, 17, 20, 28, 33, 37, 57, 62, 112, 122, 125, 143
b. When afraid (need your fears calmed): Psalm 23, 34, 46, 55, 56, 118
c. When feeling guilty about sin and needing to get open and confess: Psalm 32, 38, 43, 88, 130, 141
d. When feeling disciplined by God: Psalm 6, 44, 60, 66, 85, 89, 102, 108, 137
e. How to cry out to God for help: Psalm 3, 10, 12, 26, 70, 82, 86, 132, 142
IV. God, help me to overcome!
a. When fighting worldliness: Psalm 11, 49, 52-53, 58, 73, 101
b. When struggling with sin: Psalm 4-5, 7, 13, 25, 31, 39-41, 65, 79-80
c. When dealing with persecution: Psalm 2, 22, 54, 59, 64, 69, 83, 109, 120, 129, 140
d. How to humble yourself before God: Psalm 14-15, 36, 50, 51, 71, 75, 76, 90, 97, 114, 128, 131
V. How to rely on God for victory
a. God gives the victory! Psalm 21, 30, 35, 67, 126, 127, 144
b. God enables us to lead (when needing courage, confidence): Psalm 61, 68, 72, 110, 115, 121, 123, 124, 138