Psalm 138 - A Psalm of Thanksgiving (Reorientation)

by Pastor Paul Dugan

Try entering into gratitude with this three-part rhythm:

Part 1

Become present to the presence of God:

I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds. (Psalm 9:1 ESV).

Pause in silence before God. Practice breathing slowly and deeply. As you inhale, invite the Holy Spirit to fill every part of your being- your body, mind, imagination, affections and emotions. 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.

Optional prayer of approach: “Father God, I choose you today- above all idols, all distractions, all lesser loves that contend for my affection. You alone are the hope of my heart, light of my eyes, strength of my days. I pour out my praise before you…” (Endless Grace, by Ryan Whitaker Smith and Dan Wilt: Psalm 138).

Part 2

Slowly read from Psalm 138 (ESV) out loud: (for audio versions click here )

1  I give you thanks, O Lord, with my whole heart;
    before the gods I sing your praise;
2 I bow down toward your holy temple
    and give thanks to your name for your steadfast love and your faithfulness,
    for you have exalted above all things
    your name and your word.
3 On the day I called, you answered me;
    my strength of soul you increased.

4 All the kings of the earth shall give you thanks, O Lord,
    for they have heard the words of your mouth,
5 and they shall sing of the ways of the Lord,
    for great is the glory of the Lord.
6 For though the Lord is high, he regards the lowly,
    but the haughty he knows from afar.

7 Though I walk in the midst of trouble,
    you preserve my life;
you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies,
    and your right hand delivers me.
8 The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me;
    your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever.
    Do not forsake the work of your hands.

Part 3

Use your own words to pray Psalm 138 back to God:

  • Describe an experience of pain or difficulty…

  • What reminded you to call on the Lord?

  • Describe your experience of God’s deliverance, provision, or guidance. Give him thanks!

  • With whom can you share this story?

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 138 set to music. Try taking the psalm song with you into your day.

by Poor Bishop Hooper. everypsalm.com