Why Pray the Psalms?
The Meaning of Psalm 62
Prayer for Illumination
Father, in our hearts we bow down in order that we might sit underneath the instruction of your Word. We recognize that we do not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. Thank you that you’ve given us the Bible, that you have preserved it in order that we might learn from it and in order that we might meet you in it. Amen.
Scripture: Psalm 62
In this psalm, David declares that God is his rock and his salvation, and that he trusts in Him alone for protection and strength. He also warns his enemies not to trust in their own strength or riches, because only God is truly powerful and can bring lasting security. The psalm ends with a statement of confidence in God's protection and a call to praise Him.
How to Pray Psalm 62
Using the ACTS model of Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, and Supplication, read through Psalm 62 and then pray the following:
Adoration
Look for anything that tells you what God is like or points to His character and give Him praise.
“Father, I praise you that you are my rock, my fortress, and my salvation” (62:1-2, 6).
“Father, I praise you that you are my hope when I am distressed” (62:5).
“Father, I praise you that you are my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock and my refuge” (62:6-7).
“Father, I praise you that you are all powerful” (62:11).
“Father, I praise you that you full of steadfast love” (62:12a).
“Father, I praise you that you are the perfect judge” (62:12b).
For a video to help you meditate on and pray Psalm 62, try this video:
Confession
As you acknowledge who God is and adore Him for all that He is, confession is a natural consequence. This is a moment of introspection as you ask God to search your heart for areas that displease Him.
Ps. 62:1 says “My soul waits in silence.” Confess those times when you have failed to do that.
Ps. 62:1 also says that “From Him comes my salvation.” Confess to the Lord those times you have sought “salvation” in other things.
Ps. 62:10 says to not “make your living by extortion or put your hope in stealing. And if your wealth increases, don’t make it the center of your life” (NLT).
Confess to the Lord those times where you have made other “idols” the center of your life rather than in God alone.
Thanksgiving
This is a time to express gratitude for what God has done and for who He is. Allow the Scripture you have read to feed your thanksgiving.
Thank the Lord for His full and free salvation.
Thank the Lord for the specific times He has been your refuge and protection.
Thank the Lord for the hope that the gospel gives you.
Thank the Lord that He is trustworthy and the He hears you when you pour out your heart to Him (Ps. 62:8).
Supplication
In this moment, pray for yourself and others that you will be able to put into practice what you have read and heard.
“Father, help me to wait in silence as I deal with……”
“Father, because you are my Rock and my Salvation, I trust you to deliver me from……”
“Father, be a fortress today for _________ (name) and help them not to be shaken by _____________ (their situation).
“Father, because all power belongs to you, I trust you to meet the need of……”
Hymn of Reflection
For the God of my salvation,
for my rock, for God my own;
in this hour my soul is waiting
silently, for God alone.
While He shields me as a fortress,
shaken I will never be.
Tho' the foe assails the stronghold,
nothing can unsettle me.
Wait, my soul, in perfect stillness;
find your hope in God alone.
While you rest in His salvation,
you cannot be overthrown.
Wait, my soul, grow strong in waiting;
glory in your God, and rest;
meditate on His perfections,
read His comforts, and be blest.
Do not place your trust in riches,
nor in men of high degree;
hear the words your God has spoken:
"Pow'r to help belongs to Me."
Trust Him always, all His people;
pour your heart out at His throne.
God will be your rock, your refuge—
place your trust in Him alone.
(Wait, My Soul Words: © 2015 Eileen Berry)
Closing Prayer
Almighty God, your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. Thank you that I can live in your light and walk in your truth. May the things that you have revealed to me today dwell in my heart and stir me to action. Amen.
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Prayer Guide written by Rev. Travis Johnson.