Psalm 60 - A Psalm of Lament (Disorientation)

by Pastor Paul Dugan

Try entering into lament with this three-part rhythm:

Part 1

Become present to the presence of God:

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (Psalm 46:10-11)

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: “Lord Jesus, my heart grieves for the people of God. Your church- founded to be a light to the world; a city on a hill- is a pale shadow of its former self; its stones shattered… When will this weight of sorrow be lifted? When will this long affliction end? When will your church be filled with glory once again? You are the rebuilder of ruins.” (Sheltering Mercy, by Ryan Whitaker Smith and Dan Wilt: Psalm 60).

Part 2

Slowly read Psalm 60:1-5 (NIV) out loud: (for an audio version click here)

1  You have rejected us, God, and burst upon us; you have been angry—now restore us!

2 You have shaken the land and torn it open;
    mend its fractures, for it is quaking.
3 You have shown your people desperate times;
    you have given us wine that makes us stagger.
4 But for those who fear you, you have raised a banner to be unfurled against the bow.

5 Save us and help us with your right hand,
    that those you love may be delivered.

Part 3

Pray your own lament psalm- for yourself, or on behalf of someone who is suffering in your world.

  • Describe the trouble in detail to God.

  • Express your honest emotions: "Lord, I am feeling sad about…; "… angry…; “… afraid…

  • Bring him your honest questions: "Lord, why….?; "How long, Lord, before you…?; "Where are you in…?

  • Make your plea to God: "Please, Lord…; "Remember back when you…; Do it again, Lord!”

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

by Sons of Korah, from the album Fractures (2020). sonsofkorah.com