After theology school, I carried with me the tradition of having devotions. I take them as an opportunity to understand the scripture better. I have since gained a better understanding of the Bible.
In that regard, I introduced this practice to my online Christian forum. Our most recent devotion session was about the book of Psalms.
Some members needed help finding devotion and worship Psalms. Given my experience and knowledge of the scripture, I shared some of the best Psalms to read for devotion.
I realized there could be others who may want guidance on these Psalms. Hence, I decided to share this article.
Five best Psalms to read for daily devotion
Psalm 119:76-77
“Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be for my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant. Let thy tender mercies come unto me, that I may live: for thy law is my delight.”
This is a plea to God for comfort and love. Christians suggest this as one of the best Psalms to read for daily devotion, as nothing beats God’s assurance as we go on with our daily activities.
Psalm 5:2-3
“Hearken unto the voice of my cry, my King, and my God: for unto thee will I pray. My voice shalt thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto thee, and will look up.”
This is a cry to God that He may listen and answer our prayers. Teachers of the scripture believe it is the best Psalm to read for daily devotion as it reminds us to turn to God, who will answer all our prayers.
Psalm 71:20-21
“Thou, which hast shewed me great and sore troubles, shalt quicken me again, and shalt bring me up again from the depths of the earth. Thou shalt increase my greatness, and comfort me on every side.”
The bible says that God will restore life from the troubles and bring comfort and honor. This Psalm is powerful and perfect for daily devotion as it sets us on the right path and ushers God into our lives daily.
Psalm 46:1-3
“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; Though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Selah.”
The Psalm says God is our source of strength and refuge. This is a befitting Psalm to read during devotion as it reminds us that God is our hiding place. Through this, it will encourage you not to fear, as God will see you through the day.
Psalm 121:1-2
“I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.”
The Psalm states that God is the maker of Heaven and earth who will help us. This is a perfect psalm for daily devotion as it calls God to our refuge, especially when one is going through a difficult situation.
Psalm 27:13-14
“I had fainted, unless I had believed to see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living. Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord.”
The Psalm proclaims God’s provision of His promises and goodness. Christians believe this Psalm is among the best Psalms since it encourages us to have faith and be strong.
What is the best Psalms for worship?
Christians suggest various Psalms for worship. For instance, Psalm 65 praises God for His mercies and forgiveness of our sins. In addition, it glorifies God, for He answers prayers.
Another one is Psalm 145, which sings of praises from the first verse to the last. It exalts God’s name for His greatness, steadfast love, compassion, kingdom, and kindness.
Psalm 96 is also suitable for worship as it praises the Lord for His salvation and for creating all that is in Heaven and Earth.
Other Psalms that are best for worship are Psalm 40, Psalm 100:1-5 and Psalm 34:1-9. These verses praise and glorify God’s name for all the good He has done.
How to use Psalms for devotion with Children
As we know, the verses may be challenging to comprehend, especially for children. Hence, your guidance in telling them how to use Psalms for devotion will steer them in the right direction. Christian scholars suggest that you learn about the Psalms together through family devotion.
Through this, you will have a chance to explain complex concepts. Others suggest you have one Psalm for devotion for a couple of days.
Some Christians recommend creating a hymn to help children memorize and understand the Psalm better.
How do you use the Psalms for devotion and worship?
Psalms are mostly prayers that most Christians borrow during their devotion and worship. Some find Psalms complex and, hence, challenging to use.
Fortunately, Christian scholars suggest specific ways to use the Psalms for devotion and worship.
Teachers of the scripture suggest singing the Psalms during worship and devotion. Others recommend reading a few Psalms at a time rather than several at once.
In addition, others suggest that you discuss with other Christians, which will give you a better understanding while worshipping and during devotion.
Can you use Psalms daily in devotion?
You can use Psalms in your daily devotion. As discussed, various Psalms are best for daily devotions as they speak of heart desires and bring us closer to God.
These Psalms have different meanings, which you can categorize and place for different days of the week. Christians believe Psalms are powerful and will significantly impact daily devotion.
In addition, Psalms create good hymns as most sing praises to the Lord. Hence, it would be easy to include them during daily devotion.
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.