Psalms

Psalms

At the centre of the Bible is the book of Psalms. This great collection of songs and prayers expresses the heart and soul of humanity. This book was written between the time of Moses (approximately 1440 B.C.) and the Babylonian captivity (approximately 586 B.C.) by Moses, King David and other writers who honestly poured out their true feelings, reflecting a dynamic, powerful and life-changing friendship with God. The authors confess their sins, express their doubts and fears, ask God for help in times of trouble, praise and worship God.

Psalms contain songs of praise to God as our Creator, Sustainer and Redeemer. Praise is recognizing, appreciating and expressing God’s greatness, faithfulness and goodness. Many Psalms are intense prayers asking God for forgiveness, mercy and help. When we put our trust in God, He quiets our hearts because we know that He is all-powerful, acts at the right time, He is sovereign over every situation. He is faithful and just!

Many people, (Christian and Non-Christian) have heard or read Psalm Chapter 23, because it is the most quoted. Other Psalms are also familiar because they are found in music, literature, poems and quoted in church services. The Psalms believer’s tend to know and love, are the ones that come into our minds when we need them. They inspire, comfort, teach and correct us.

 Psalms parallels our spiritual journey through life. It begins by presenting us with two roads – one way to life and the other way to death. If individuals choose God’s way to life, they will still have and face;

1.      Blessings and troubles.

2.      Joy and grief.

3.      Successes and obstacles.

Through it all, God is at our side, guiding, encouraging, comforting and caring. As the believer’s life draws to an end, he/she will realise clearly that God’s road is the right road. Knowing this will cause us to praise and thank God for leading us in the right direction, and for assuring our place in the new perfect world, He has prepared for those who have faithfully followed him.

“Let everything that hath breadth praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord”

What a fitting way to end this book of praise. Remember to praise God every day!