Psalm 119:105-112 A Psalm of Wisdom (Orientation)

by Pastor Paul Dugan

Try entering into prayer with this three-part rhythm:

Part 1

Become present to the presence of God:

Every morning I lay out the pieces of my life on your altar and watch for fire to descend. (Psalm 5:3 The Message).

Pause in silence before God. Practice breathing slowly and deeply. As you inhale, invite the Holy Spirit to fill every part of your being. As you exhale, release any burdens you are carrying into this time of prayer. Repeat this breathing prayer until you have brought your whole self -‘as is’ -before the presence of God.

Part 2

Slowly read Psalm 119:105-112 (ESV) out loud:

105 Your word is a lamp to my feet

    and a light to my path.
 106 I have sworn an oath and confirmed it,
    to keep your righteous rules.
 107 I am severely afflicted;
    give me life, O Lord, according to your word!
 108 Accept my freewill offerings of praise, O Lord,
    and teach me your rules.
109 I hold my life in my hand continually,
    but I do not forget your law.
110 The wicked have laid a snare for me,
    but I do not stray from your precepts.
 111 Your testimonies are my heritage forever,
    for they are the joy of my heart.
 112 I incline my heart to perform your statutes
    forever, to the end.

Part 3

Use your own words to pray Psalm 119:105-112 back to God:

"I lament the sorrow and pain in my life and world that has resulted from unwise choices... (my choices and the choices of others)

“I thank you God for giving us clear boundaries, for defining for us what is true and false, good and evil, wise and foolish. And thank you for giving us the freedom to choose the good. I bring to you the choices that are before me today… (ex, how I invest my time, thoughts, words, relationships, money, abilities, body, etc.)

“I need your Word to shine light on my…”

The psalms were originally written as lyrics, as prayers set to music. Throughout the history of Israel and the church, the people of God have sung the psalms. Song invites us to internalize the Word of God with the whole self- body, mind, imagination, emotions and affections. Take time to listen to a version of Psalm 119 set to music. Try taking the psalm song with you into your day.

by Corner Room, from "Psalm Songs, Volume 3." cornerroommusic.com