Psalm 85 - 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. 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: “Look upon me, Lord, with renewing, refreshing life. See beyond my brokenness, my ceaseless struggle- my trespasses, transgressions; all I have done and left undone. Reclaim me, restore me- that I may hear your voice, walk in your ways, to the glory of your name...” (Endless Grace, by Ryan Whitaker Smith and Dan Wilt: Psalm 85).

Part 2

Slowly read from Psalm 85 (NIV) out loud: (for audio versions click here)

1  You, Lord, showed favor to your land;
    you restored the fortunes of Jacob.
2 You forgave the iniquity of your people
    and covered all their sins.
3 You set aside all your wrath
    and turned from your fierce anger.

4 Restore us again, God our Savior,
    and put away your displeasure toward us.
5 Will you be angry with us forever?
    Will you prolong your anger through all generations?
6 Will you not revive us again,
    that your people may rejoice in you?
7 Show us your unfailing love, Lord,
    and grant us your salvation.

8 I will listen to what God the Lord says;
    he promises peace to his people, his faithful servants—
    but let them not turn to folly.
9 Surely his salvation is near those who fear him,
    that his glory may dwell in our land.

10 Love and faithfulness meet together;
    righteousness and peace kiss each other.
11 Faithfulness springs forth from the earth,
    and righteousness looks down from heaven.
12 The Lord will indeed give what is good,
    and our land will yield its harvest.
13 Righteousness goes before him
    and prepares the way for his steps.

Reflect on the psalm:

  • How does the psalmist describe his current trouble?

  • Name the range of emotions expressed in this psalm.

  • What honest questions are asked?

  • What are the pleas? What does the psalmist ask for?

  • How does this psalm give voice to the sufferings of Jesus Christ, who himself prays the psalms with us?

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 desires. Take time to listen to a version of Psalm 85 set to music. Try taking the psalm song with you into your day.

by Poor Bishop Hooper (2021). everypsalm.com