Vital signs- Wednesday, October 19th, 2022

Psalms of Lament often follow a very similar pattern. They usually begin with protest, lead into a petition, and then end with praise to God. These psalms are an excellent model for our prayer life as believers. Sometimes we come under the false assumption that God doesn't want to hear our protest. We fear that somehow we might offend him if we pour out to him what is happening in our hearts. 

The Psalms of Lament are great examples of how we can express our hurt and disappointment to God in a respectful way. God can handle our frustrations, our worries, our pain, and even our fears. As you read these psalms, observe how the Psalmist isn't afraid to share how they feel. Watch for the cycle of protest and how it shifts to prayer through petitioning God. Finally, take notice of how the writing usually closes with praise and adoration of God's goodness.

Are you facing challenging circumstances in your life? Try practicing prayers of lament.

Step One- Express to God what you are feeling

Step Two- Bring your petitions and needs before God in prayer and release your concerns to him

Step Three- Refocus on God's goodness and begin to praise him. 

“O Lord, do not rebuke or punish me in Your anger, Nor discipline me in Your wrath. Have mercy on me and be gracious to me, O Lord, for I am weak (faint, frail); Heal me, O Lord, for my bones are dismayed and anguished. My soul [as well as my body] is greatly dismayed. But as for You, O Lord—how long [until You act on my behalf]? Return, O Lord, rescue my soul; Save me because of Your [unfailing] steadfast love and mercy. For in death there is no mention of You; In Sheol (the nether world, the place of the dead) who will praise You and give You thanks? I am weary with my groaning; Every night I soak my bed with tears, I drench my couch with my weeping. My eye grows dim with grief; It grows old because of all my enemies. Depart from me, all you who do evil, For the Lord has heard the voice of my weeping. The Lord has heard my supplication [my plea for grace]; The Lord receives my prayer. Let all my enemies be ashamed and greatly horrified; Let them turn back, let them suddenly be ashamed [of what they have done].”

‭‭Psalms‬ ‭6‬:‭1‬-‭10‬ ‭AMP‬‬