My family has a tradition of sending Psalms to someone on their birthday. I’ve dutifully passed this down to my kids; they love it. So, when a friend asked how he could incorporate this into his family, I was happy to share what I knew.
As a theologian, I believe Scripture can and should be applied to all situations. We met up, and I shared seven Psalms to get him started.
Our conversation inspired this article, where I share the best Psalms for a birthday.
7 Best Psalms to read for a birthday
Psalm 20:4-5
“May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed. May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God. May the Lord grant all your requests.”
This Psalm emphasizes the value of trusting God. It starts with a series of blessings you can send as birthday wishes to someone.
Alternatively, you can pray these blessings over your life as you enter a new year.
Psalm 22:9-10
“Yet you brought me out of the womb; you made me trust in you, even at my mother’s breast. From birth I was cast on you; from my mother’s womb you have been my God.”
This is a prophetic Psalm talking about the Messiah. Verses 9 and 10 talk about the Psalmist’s intimacy with God. He remembers God’s presence in his life, even as a baby.
You can use this when reminiscing about God’s faithfulness in the past and entrusting your future into His hands.
Psalm 39:4-5
“Show me, Lord, my life’s end and the number of my days; let me know how fleeting my life is. You have made my days a mere handbreadth; the span of my years is as nothing before you. Everyone is but a breath, even those who seem secure.
The Psalmist asks God to help him understand how fleeting his life is. These verses are perfect for a reset on your birthday.
They warn against overestimating your value and encourage you to pursue righteousness. They are a stark reminder of life’s transient nature.
Psalm 65:11
“You crown the year with your bounty, and your carts overflow with abundance.”
This is a song of praise and thanksgiving, making it a perfect birthday wish. Verse 11 talks about God’s blessings on the land. You can use it when praying for abundance and favor as you grow.
Psalm 71:6-8
“From birth I have relied on you; you brought me forth from my mother’s womb. I will ever praise you. I have become a sign to many; you are my strong refuge. My mouth is filled with your praise, declaring your splendor all day long.”
The Psalmist declares God’s faithfulness in his life, making this perfect for birthdays. You can use this when reflecting on God’s love. It reminds you of His protection and blessings from childhood and comforts you as you age.
Psalm 90:12
“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.”
In this verse, Moses asks God to help him number his days. This Psalm is perfect for young people who want to live righteous lives.
It awakens you to the fact that your life will soon end. This knowledge helps you prioritize holiness and righteousness in your life. Use this Psalm when praying for wisdom on your birthday.
Psalm 139:16-18
“Your eyes saw my unformed body; all the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, God! How vast is the sum of them! Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand—when I awake, I am still with you.”
The Psalmist here talks about God’s intimate knowledge of him. He teaches that God planned out his life from conception.
This Psalm is a good reminder of God’s love on your birthday. Additionally, it reminds you of a humbling truth: God, the master of the Universe, knows and thinks about you.
Can you send these Psalms as birthday wishes to someone else?
Yes. You can send these Psalms as birthday wishes. Some encourage, while others help you reflect on God’s goodness. These Psalms work for every age, and most can be incorporated into prayers for the person celebrating their birthday.
What does Psalm 65:11 say for birthday wishes?
This Psalm has a positive and uplifting message, making it perfect for birthdays. It talks about God’s blessings and favor. Its words can be a blessing to the birthday boy or girl.
Alternatively, you can share them in a birthday card.
As a Christian, I have always been passionate about sharing God’s word with young people. This inspired me to pursue a Certificate in Christian Education, an Undergraduate degree in Religious Studies, and a Graduate degree in Theology. My knowledge in school and experience from dealing with the youth made me an expert at discussing Christian-related topics. I feel privileged working as the Coordinator of the Christian Youth Ministry at Christian Faith Guide. You can read more about me on the about us page.
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5 Best Psalms to read for Lent (Psalms prayers for Lent)
What is the best Psalms to read for devotion? (5 best psalms for devotion and worship)
7 Psalms to read during the Holy Week (Psalms verses to read during the Holy Week)