Psalms:
Pathways to the Presence of God

Psalms is the largest collection of poetry in the canon of Scripture. It is an anthology of 150 ancient Hebrew songs, poems and prayers written throughout the history of Israel and then purposely curated into a single volume. The book as a whole is a stunning retelling of the story of Scripture; it summarizes in song the substance of the Old Testament - its narrative, history, law and prophecy. However, each psalm also stands alone, every one a unique work written in response to an immediate life situation. In this way, the Psalms give voice to every area of human need. They explore the vast array of human experiences, teaching believers how to faithfully navigate them.

What does an abiding belief in the LORD look like…

...during our deepest moments of distress?

Hear, O LORD, when I cry aloud; be gracious to me and answer me! Psalm 27:7 (ESV)

...in our shining moments of triumph?

I will exalt you, O LORD, because you lifted me up. Psalm 30:1 (EHV)

...in the face of our greatest failures?

LORD, hear my prayer; listen to my cries for mercy. Psalm 86:6 (CSB)

...through the ordinary moments of our everyday lives?

Make me to know your ways, O LORD; teach me your paths. Psalm 25:4 (ESV)

The Psalms model these things through the medium of poetry and song compositions which were commonly set to music and sung aloud. These writings were purposefully constructed to stick in the readersʼ minds and wedge deep in their hearts, providing us with language to express our emotions to God and templates for how to speak with Him through the various circumstances of life. 

As we journey through the genres of Psalms over the course of six weeks, we’ll give an ear to the songs of the psalmists in order to better voice our own prayers. Thank you for walking with us as we retrace the psalmists’ footsteps down these time-tested and well-worn pathways to the presence of God.