Psalm 67 - A Psalm of Praise (Orientation)
by Pastor Paul Dugan
Try entering into praise 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 67 (ESV) out loud: (for audio versions click here)
1 May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face to shine upon us,
2 that your way may be known on earth,
your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you!
4 Let the nations be glad and sing for joy,
for you judge the peoples with equity
and guide the nations upon earth.
5 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
let all the peoples praise you!
6 The earth has yielded its increase;
God, our God, shall bless us.
7 God shall bless us;
let all the ends of the earth fear him.
Part 3
Use your own words to pray Psalm 67 back to God:
“Lord God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit- I praise you, for you are…
“I praise you for what you have done. Specifically, I thank you for…
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 67 set to music. Try taking the psalm song with you into your day.
From the album Psalm Songs (2018), by The Corner Room. cornerroommusic.com.