PSALMS FOR EVERY SITUATION
The Psalms are honest, poetic expressions of the experiences, thoughts, and emotions of David and others as they followed God. Many of these spiritual songs are also prayers. Various kinds of psalms were written for different purposes and circumstances, and they can generally be grouped into five categories. These categories are listed below along with an example of each.
Individual prayers (often poignant pleas for help)
Have compassion on me, LORD, for I am weak.
Heal me, LORD, for my body is in agony.
I am sick at heart.
How long, O LORD, until you restore me?
PSALM 6:2-3
Instructional psalms
Come, my children, and listen to me,
and I will teach you to fear the LORD. . . .
Turn away from evil and do good.
Work hard at living in peace with others.
PSALM 34:11, 14
Prayers of the community
Only by your power can we push back our enemies;
only in your name can we trample our foes. . . .
But now you have tossed us aside in dishonor.
You no longer lead our armies to battle.
PSALM 44:5, 9
Hymns of thanksgiving
Let the whole world bless our God
and sing aloud his praises.
Our lives are in his hands,
and he keeps our feet from stumbling.
PSALM 66:8-9
Psalms for special occasions
Your procession has come into view, O God—
the procession of my God and King
as he goes into the sanctuary.
Singers are in front, musicians are behind;
with them are young women playing tambourines.
PSALM 68:24-25
In looking at these various kinds of psalms, we see that God wants us to bring our heart before him in every situation. The Psalms teach us to call upon him in our time of need, both individually and corporately; to praise him when he answers us; to acknowledge him on special occasions; and to learn to obey him and live right.
Perhaps it is because the Psalms speak to all of life that they are so popular. They have been able to touch the hearts of many people in all sorts of circumstances. We can relate to the Psalms very personally, and their honesty endears them to us. More than simply teaching us about God, the Psalms help us express our inmost feelings to God in all of life, reminding us that God has created our emotions as well as our mind and desires that we yield our whole self to him in all things.
The psalmists don’t pretend to have all the answers. Instead, they ask genuine questions and often cry out in agony. In other words, the psalmists are quite human—so much so, in fact, their humanity can almost be embarrassing to us at times. Yet, in spite of all their travail, the psalmists almost always end up praising God because they know he is bigger than their problems and wiser than their questions.
In short, the Psalms are songs to be sung, laments to be cried, prayers to be prayed, and praises to be lifted on high. Let the Psalms speak to your heart this year, whatever you may be feeling. Learn to give God your whole self—heart, mind, and soul—and discover what he desires to teach you in all your circumstances.
Let us before his presence come
With praise and thankful voice;
Let us sing psalms to him with grace
And make a joyful noise.
OLD SCOTTISH PSALTER
“Elsewhere in the Bible God speaks to us; in the Psalms He helps us speak to Him.”
J. C. GREY
Consider the way you feel today. Which of the five types of psalms would you use to express your thoughts and feelings? Try writing a psalm of your own—an honest expression of your emotions before God.
How to Apply the Psalms to Every Situation In Your Life
As a child, my mom had many Psalms memorized; she made us read them and I came to appreciate human emotions through the experiences of people like David and Moses. However, as we grow up and begin to get overwhelmed by life, we fall into the trap of thinking our experiences are unique to us. We wonder why we go through the things we do and we throw the words “you have no idea” around much more easily. The truth is that someone somewhere has an idea what it feels like to be in our shoes, to endure the things that hurt, confuse and even embarrass us. Best of all, our Father in heaven knows exactly how it feels. He gave us the Bible for a reason; His eternal Word to guide us on this journey.
2 Timothy 3:16-17 says:
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.
Nothing in God’s Word is a mistake or an afterthought, and that includes the Psalms. It should be such an encouragement for us to know that the men and women whose experiences we read about in the Bible, who walked with God and did such great things had the same emotions and struggles as we have today.
As a matter of fact, we can find references for the emotions we feel in life and get inspiration from how our heroes of faith navigated them.
When You are Lonely or in Despair:
Every time you think of David, do you see a victorious warrior standing over a slain Goliath?
Consider Psalm 63:1, David said, “O God, you are my God; early will I seek You: my soul thirsts for You, my flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land, where no water is.”
Before David ever won a single battle, he trained himself to worship, to seek God as he sat, probably cold and lonely, watching over his father’s sheep out in the fields.
Let this picture encourage you when you face times of loneliness and despair.
When You Feel the Weight of Your Sinfulness:
Maybe you see David as a man caught in adultery and murder, digging a deeper hole for himself as he tries to cover his guilt.
Then consider Psalm 51:1 & 13
“[A]ccording to your great compassion, blot out my transgressions…Then I will teach transgressors your ways so that sinners will turn back to you.”
When David was confronted with his sin by Nathan the prophet, he had a change of heart, repented before God and accepted forgiveness. Why not take solace in his example knowing that you can never stray too far away that God cannot reach you.
When You are Distracted by Worldly Things:
When you find yourself caught up in the tide of the times, distracted and unable to the see the bigger picture—the ultimate reality of living for God and His kingdom—remember the prayer of Moses in Psalm 90:12 “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” How fitting is that prayer for such a time as this?
When You Face Barrenness:
When you attend baby showers every other weekend and wonder when you will hold your own little ones in your arms, be encouraged by Psalm 113:9 “He settles the childless woman in her home as a happy mother of children. Praise the Lord.”
When You are Tempted to Compare Yourself to Others:
Thinking you’re not good enough, beautiful enough or worthy enough? Consider that you are truly fearfully and wonderfully made – Psalm 139:14. God’s works are wonderful and that includes you!
When You are Overwhelmed By Life:
When you are going from one tough circumstance to another wondering when you can have some relief, don’t be surprised to find Psalms like these in the Bible; Psalm 10:1 “Why, Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?” The writer of that Psalm was obviously overwhelmed, questioning and pouring his heart out to God. The good news is God can handle your questions, he’s not intimidated by your doubts and your fears. Go ahead and vent. But remember, just like the writer of Psalm 10 did in verses 17 & 18, that God is always on your side. “You, Lord hear the desire of the afflicted; you encourage them, and you listen to their cry, defending the fatherless and the oppressed.”
The best way to apply the Psalms to your situation? Read them, explore them and connect with the message, the hope and the truth in them.
Be encouraged. God has an answer for every question that troubles your heart. Just listen.
CREDIT: iBELIEVE
Psalms - Special Purposes - Occasions
Some Psalms - special purposes - occasions are listed below. Considering there are 150 psalms in The Bible, this list is incomplete; it's just a starting point.
PSALMS OF COMFORT
PSALMS FOR DEATH & DYING
PSALMS OF DELIVERANCE
PSALMS FOR LACK of FAITH
PSALMS OF FORGIVENESS
PSALMS OF HOPE AND CONFIDENCE
PSALMS OF PROTECTION
PSALMS FOR SADNESS & SORROW
PSALMS FOR HELP IN TIMES OF TROUBLE
RESPONSORIAL PSALMS FOR WEDDINGS
PSALMS and AFFIRMATIONS FOR WORRY, ANXIETY AND ANGUISH
Return to PsalmsAndAffirmations.com from Psalms - Special Purposes - Occasions
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What Other Visitors Have Said About Their Favorite Psalms
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Psalms 23
Psalms 23 is my favorite psalms because it is a constant reminder that God, my creator, created me for a purpose. I am comforted by the recollection that …
Psalm 23
I like the Psalm 23 which tells that God prepares a table before me in the presence of my enemies. This psalm is very special for me because it reveals …
Psalm 69
Because although sometimes I get down in the dumps frustrated and feeling sad. Psalm 69 uplifts my spirit because it lets me know that God understands …
Psalms 46
I like the fact that Psalm 46 says nothing can shake me no matter how the enemies roar! My VERY PRESENT help in time of need! My all-the-time help, stand-by …
Psalm 23
Because when I die I want to go and be with Jesus my saviour. I like to say it a lot. I do trust Jesus Christ!
Psalm 34
Psalm 34 is one of my favorites because it affirms my heart-felt sentiment concerning my relationship with God, and my desire to acknowledge him for who …
Psalm 119
Psalm 119 teaches the character of God and gives one all things needed to connect and stay under the shadow of the Almighty
Psalm 23
Psalm 23 is important to me because I know Jesus loves me and he will take me home from this world one day. To a world of happiness and peace.
Psalm 23
Psalm 23 it is forever reminding me of my late father. When we were growing up it was our family prayer at home in the morning and evening. We sang and …
Psalm 118
Psalm 118 gives me strength to face another day😃
Psalm 20
Psalm 20 is a plea to heaven for help to the king.
Psalm 23
I love this psalm. Usually say it every night. Because God is letting me knnow he will be with me. And that I will be safe when leaving this world.
Psalms 23
While under sedation from morphine due to a huge medical operation my soul found itself confronting several temptations; I subconsciously prayed this psalm …
Psalm 35
Psalm 35 - is good to read it every day because it is against enemies.
Psalm 103 and Psalm 121
I was born out of wedlock and don't know my father but in Psalm 103 and Psalm 121 I am reminded that I have a father in God. I feel his love and protection …
Psalm 139
As a mother of 5 children, the idea of the Lord knowing me in my mother's womb makes sense. I knew my 4 daughters and 1 son as they were part of me for …
Psalm 147:3
In Psalm 147:3 we're told that God "heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
My Favorite is Psalm 91
Because I feel so at peace when I know that God is watching over and protecting me.
Psalm 3
Psalm 3 is a reminder that God will always hear my prayers and keep my head held high.
Psalm 40
Psalm 40 gives hope. Has comforted me in many difficult times in my life.
Psalm 103
Being alone and ill, it is my promise from God. For His promises are yes and amen.
Psalm 32
I found this Psalm 32 very encouraging this month. V9: "Be ye not as the horse, or as the mule, which have no understanding: whose mouth …
Psalm 27
Psalm 27 says it all; I have nothing to add.
Psalm 19
Psalm 19 has given me divine wisdom in all areas of my life: such as family, spiritual, social, financial, etc.
Psalm 42
It reminds the that bad times God is there taking care of me and make me stronger also I love the picture of a deer panting for water and that my heart …
PSALM 121
This is a true story. In 2010 I was facing problems at work; I had made a mistake and was going to be disciplined. I went to the parish church and opened …
Psalm 18
Psalm 18 came to me in a dream for help in time of oppression and difficulties. It can give strength to those that are very weak. When faced with strong …
Psalm 103
Psalm 103 is one to praise and appreciate what God has done, is doing and will do in my life. It confirms the supremacy of God. It affirms the owner of …
Psalm 37:25
Psalm 37:25 says, "I have been young and now I'm old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or his seed begging bread." This tells me that the …
Psalm 62
The psalm is for GOD's protection to be used on Sunday & Monday evenings before going to bed.
Psalm 37
Psalm 37 assures me of protection from evil. I like this psalm; it is awesome and it lifts me up when I am down. And, Psalm 37 gives me so much joy. …
Psalm 139
Wonderful Psalm is 139 for meditation and provides an incredible amount of inspiration and courage for the reader.
Psalm 92
TRUE WORSHIP AND OUR CREATOR - YAH JIREH'S THE ONLY GOD OF THE SEVENTH (SATURDAY) DAY SHABBATH (LAST DAY OF THE WEEK) PRESENCE I DO FEEL WITH A SENSE …
PSALM 51
To me, this is a PSALM to cleanse my unrighteousness. A Psalm of re-dedication. Also, a Psalm of mercy, and to reaffirm my trust in God. Especially, …
Psalm 27
VERSE 1 SAYS IT ALL!IT KIND OF EXPRESSES OUR SUPREMACY OVER EVERY SITUATION OR CALAMITY ORCHESTRATED FROM THE PIT OF HELL...PROFESSING THIS VERSE INSTANTLY …
The 47th Psalm
One of my mother's friends of long ago recommended that I read Psalm 47 at a time when I was really struggling with a deep depression and needed to reaffirm …
Psalm 121
This (Psalm 121) is my favorite Psalm because it is titled "The Lord Guards His People". I can only look to the Lord and not any human (including myself). …
Psalm 72
Psalm 72 is a prophectic prayer by our daddy David for the wealth transfer agenda of God for every generation, especially mine. It has also commanding …
Psalm 145 and Psalm 8
Psalm 145 1: I will extol thee, my God, O king; and I will bless thy name for ever and ever. Psalm 8 1: O LORD our Lord, how excellent is thy …
Be still and know that I am God. Psalms 26:10
This one short little verse packs so much power. In times of distress, we all need this reminder, that God is God and he is all powerful.
Psalm 145
Its so positive!
PSALM 121
I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help? It confirms my helper always, JESUS. It gives me peace of mind because I have an anchor. …
Psalm 88
Simply because this is exactly what I have always wanted to pray to God, and it can't be put in any better words than those spoken by the psalmist (Korah). …
Psalm 59
It tells me that l am not alone. God is my defence.
Psalm 122
I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the Lord's House.
Psalm 73
I relate to the psalmist's struggle and am grateful for the answer he finds.
Psalm 139
I am a person who lives by feeling. When I feel good about something I know it is good for me. It is hard to explain why Psalm 139 is my favorite. It …
Psalms 116
This Psalm 116 for me is one of thanks to God for protection, especially during child birth. I have great joy in reading this psalm. Verses one and two …
ALL OF THEM
THE PSALMS KEEP ME VERY SAFE IN MY LIFE AND HEAL ME; AND, A LOT OF OTHER THINGS THAT THEY, THE BIBLE'S PSALMS, DO FOR ME - I MEAN A VERY LOT
Psalm 4
This psalm is special to me because it has helped to improve on my daily activities.
Psalm 73
...Which indicates the complete seeking .....it says there is none other than Him for me to put in trust. Though I am full of blemish and wickedness...my …
Psalm 46:10 Be still, and know that I am God;
I tend, like many, to let life take me like a rip tide down my path. This Psalm reminds me to just stop, slow down and take a breath and remember to focus …
Psalm 37
I went through a horrific experience many years ago, none that any parent should ever have to suffer; my youngest 2 children were kidnapped by their …
Psalm 46
Positive Promises ... "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble ... though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried …
Psalm 139
Psalm 139 reminds me that God knows and cares about everything about me. God is in my future, especially my immediate steps so that I know, without a …
Psalm 13
It is short, concise, deals with depression, and in the pause (space) there is meaning in that something has changed for the psalmist.
Psalm 25
This is my favourite because it covers all aspects and needs of life while it acknowledges the fact that our trust in Jehovah God is the only way to lead …
Psalm 23 Visitors Comments
A shepherd takes care of his sheep with his life. He puts himself in danger to protect his sheep; and, so this remind me whatever situation I am in my …
Psalm 91 Visitor Comments
B/c I always pray and at least I have been saved on so many occassions.
PSALM 121
It appeared one night in my dream during a period of my life when I was going through some rough times.
CREDIT: http://www.psalmsandaffirmations.com/psalms-special-purposes-occasions.html
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