Psalms is the hymnbook and prayer book of God’s people. In it are humanity’s deepest feelings, from the most contagious joy to the most sorrowful lament, all directed straight to the Lord.
It is 150 poems gathered over more than a thousand years. David wrote a good part of them, but Moses, Asaph, the sons of Korah, and other authors also contributed.
The book is divided into five smaller sections, each one ending with a brief word of praise to God. This structure loosely echoes the five books of the law of Moses.
David is the name most associated with the book. His life as shepherd, warrior, king, sinner, and penitent is reflected in many psalms, especially those born out of danger or guilt.
The psalms do not hide the pain. There are prayers that ask God how long the suffering will last, and cries that sound almost like despair. This honesty is an invitation to bring any emotion to God, without needing to soften what one feels before praying.
At the same time, the book celebrates the greatness of God as Creator, King, and Shepherd. Creation, the history of Israel, and the law of the Lord receive hymns of gratitude and awe.
Several psalms look beyond their own time and announce an anointed king who would reign forever. The New Testament recognizes these words fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
Used in temple worship in Israel and still today in churches and personal devotions, Psalms teaches two things rarely learned together: to pray with sincerity and to praise with joy.
May the reading of these ancient poems lend new words to your own conversation with God.