Learning to Pray Through the Psalms

by Sire, James W.

• ISBN13: 9780830833320
• ISBN10: 0830833323
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2006-01-30
• Publisher: Ivp Books

Summary

Weariness. Wonder. Joy. Longing. Anger.These are the feelings of the Psalms: honest expressions of pain and joy penned by real people in the midst of real life circumstances. Though they were written centuries ago, the Psalms still resonate deeply with us today, giving voice to our thoughts and longings:"Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD." (Psalm 130:1)"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God." (Psalm 84:2)In Learning to Pray Through the Psalms, James W. Sire teaches us to take our appreciation for this rich book of Scripture a step further. Choosing ten specific psalms, Sire offers background information that helps us read each one with deeper insight and then lays out a meditative, step-by-step approach to using the psalmists' words as a guide for our own personal conversation with God. A group study is also included in each chapter, along with a guide for praying through the psalm in community.The Lord loves when his people pray. And his Word is a powerful tool for framing honest, intimate prayers. Sire's innovative approach will enrich our minds and our souls as we read more perceptively and pray with all of our emotions.

Author Biography

James W. Sire (Ph.D., University of Missouri), formerly editor at InterVarsity Press, is a frequent guest lecturer at colleges and universities in the United States and Europe

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments	9	(2)
Introduction	11	(6)
Becoming Right with God---Psalm 32	17	(19)
Waiting for the Lord---Psalm 130	36	(18)
Night Thoughts---Psalm 4	54	(14)
A Morning Meditation---Psalm 5	68	(16)
Thirsting for God---Psalms 42---43	84	(28)
A Plea for Deliverance from Slander---Psalm 7	112	(16)
A Blazing Song of Joy---Psalm 84	128	(18)
Praying Our Anger---Psalm 137	146	(31)
The God Who Knows Me---Psalm 139	177	(19)
Our Mighty Fortress---Psalm 46	196	(13)
Teach Us to Pray	209	(7)
Appendix: Guide for Small Group Leaders	216	(3)
Notes	219	(5)
Annotated Bibliography	224