Devotion

“Then my tongue shall tell of your righteousness and of your praise all the day long.” ~ Psalm 35:28

This week, we turn our attention to the Book of Psalms. The word “psalm” means song or hymn. The Psalms are part of a collection of writing that we call Wisdom Literature. They help us to see the heart of Israel as they live out their relationship with God. The Psalms are full of praise for God’s character and work in the lives of His people. Some contain laments as a person or people pour out their hearts, their concerns, and their struggles before God. Some talk about a coming Messiah who will lead His people to victory over the world. Some talk about repentance as God’s people learn to turn away from the world and walk more closely with God. All the Psalms are a peek at the hearts and lives of God’s people.

The Psalms were written by many people over the long course of Israel’s history. Shepherds, kings, servants, and leaders have all contributed to the writing of the Book of Psalms. The Psalms were written in war time and in peaceful reflection. They were penned in palaces and in tents. They show us the range of emotions that man feels and copes with as he walks through life. They show us a common need to understand our relationship with God. The Psalms connect us with God’s people from the past. They show us that what we experience today is much like what people of old experienced. We all share in struggle and victory. We all experience pain and healing. We all seek God for answers and for comfort. The Psalms remind us that the God who intersected the lives of the ancients still works in the lives of His people today.