Psalm 73 - A Psalm of Trust (Reorientation)

by Pastor Paul Dugan

Try entering into prayer with this three-part rhythm:

Part 1

Become present to the presence of God:

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.  I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:1-2 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.

Reflect on the joys and challenges of the day. What are you thankful for? Where did you see God at work? What do you lament? What do you need to confess?

Part 2

Slowly read from Psalm 73 (NIV) out loud: (for an audio version click here)

1  Surely God is good to Israel,

    to those who are pure in heart.

2 But as for me, my feet had almost slipped;
    I had nearly lost my foothold.
3 For I envied the arrogant
    when I saw the prosperity of the wicked….

23 …Yet I am always with you;
    you hold me by my right hand.
24 You guide me with your counsel,
    and afterward you will take me into glory.
25 Whom have I in heaven but you?
    And earth has nothing I desire besides you.
26 My flesh and my heart may fail,
    but God is the strength of my heart
    and my portion forever.

27 Those who are far from you will perish;
    you destroy all who are unfaithful to you.
28 But as for me, it is good to be near God.
    I have made the Sovereign Lord my refuge;
    I will tell of all your deeds.

Part 3

Reflecting on Psalm 73, pray your own psalm of trust:

  • “Lord, you are my…

  • “I depend on you to…

  • “Without you, I am…

  • “Even when…, I trust you.

  • “I am confident that you will… 

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

by Bridgetown Worship (2020). bridgetown.church/music

From the album Asaph (2014) by Loud Harp. loudharp.com