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

All Scriptures can be read online at Bible Gateway.com