Rejoicing Comes in the Morning
We’re continuing with question 6 from the last post, which is to pray through Psalm 30, but I’d like to give you some guidelines.
There really is power in praying the psalms, in praising, even when we don’t feel like it. Eugene Peterson says this kind of prayer interrupts our preoccupation with ourselves. We are not alone in our prayers — First, as Renee so beautifully quoted from Narnia, Aslan can help us if we don’t ask, but “he sort of likes to be asked.” Begin by asking Him to help you slow down, meditate, and really see Psalm 30. Ask Him to kiss you. If a verse pops out, realize His Spirit is answering, and SLOW DOWN. Truly, I believe we are going to see some joy coming, hear about kisses received, about mourning turned into dancing. I’m praying for you to really do this, and for His Spirit to come and quicken you. I have a sense of expectancy.
Next, T. M. Moore has some helpful books on praying the psalms and he divides Psalm 30 into three parts — so let’s take it in these three parts and hear your reflections. It’s helpful if you mark them A, B, and C
A. Psalm 30:1-3 PRAISE GOD FOR HIS HEALING GRACE
When has God lifted you ouf of the depths? Healed you? Brought you up from the grave? Spared you from going down to the pit. Write your contemplations and praises.
B. Psalm 30:4-10 PRAISE THE LORD THAT HIS CHASTENING LEADS TO RENEWAL
When have you felt His chastening and responded so that renewal came? What promises give you hope here? What warning do you need to heed? What perspective do we have, on this side of the cross, that David did not?
C. Psalm 30:10-12 GIVE PRAISE AND THANKS TO GOD FOR HIS RENEWING GRACE
Word pictures are meant to be savored. Read as a lover reads. What do you see?