During the pandemic, our church decided to encourage the nurses and doctors in our congregation. I was asked to help curate a list of Psalms to help achieve this.
I fell back on my theological background to craft a list of the best Psalms for healthcare workers. That experience inspired me to share these Psalms with you so you can pray for the nurses and doctors in your circle.
10 Psalms to read for nurses
Psalm 30:5
“For his anger lasts only a moment, but his favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may stay for the night, but rejoicing comes in the morning. This Psalm states that sorrow is temporary and will soon be replaced by joy. This Psalm works for healthcare workers as it encourages them when they face hopelessness.”
Psalm 34:4
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.”
David declared that he sought God when he was in trouble, and God helped him. Reciting this Psalm encourages nurses to call out to God when struggling.
Psalm 34:18
“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
David declared that God is close to the broken-hearted and will save those crushed in spirit. This Psalm encourages nurses battling with depression because of their jobs.
It teaches that God identifies and cares about their struggle.
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
The Psalmist teaches that God is your refuge and strength; He is always there for you in trouble. This Psalm encourages nurses to rely on God in their careers.
Psalm 55:22
“Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
David challenges you to cast your cares on the Lord and rely on him for sustenance. Nurses reading this are encouraged to shun fear and anxiety, knowing God is with them.
Psalm 62:1
“Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.”
David proclaims that his soul rests in God; he calls the Lord his rock, salvation, and fortress. Nurses reading this learn to maintain composure amid their struggles and trust God’s salvation.
Psalm 90:17
“May the favor of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.”
The Psalmist prays for God’s favor in his work. Healthcare workers can integrate this prayer at the start of their day. It helps them commit their day to the Lord.
Psalm 91:1-3
“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.’ Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence.”
The Psalmist reiterates God’s promise to be with those who love Him. He declares confidence in God’s salvation and help.
Nurses can meditate on these verses when faced with challenges in their work.
Psalm 103:1-5
“Praise the Lord, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases, who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion, who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”
The Psalmist praises God for all His benefits. Nurses can use this as part of their evening devotional. It helps them focus on God’s love and not succumb to the depression and anxiety that comes with their jobs.
Psalm 121
“I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep.”
This song of ascent declares that God is your help. It encourages nurses to keep going even when they feel weak or afraid.
How to use Psalms to pray for healthcare workers
You can apply the principles of Lectio Divina to use the Psalms when praying for healthcare workers. Start by selecting a psalm, reading and meditating on what it says, praying the words of the Psalm, and recording specific needs God placed on your heart.
How to use the Psalms to encourage healthcare providers
Sharing select verses with healthcare workers can encourage them. This works if you have friends and relatives working in healthcare. Additionally, listening to their experiences and praying with them encourages them.
Can you read these Psalms for anyone else?
Yes. You can read these Psalms for others. Most of these work to encourage people facing various challenges in their work and personal lives.
As such, they work for people outside the health industry.
As a theologian, I have always been curious to learn more about the Christian Faith. That is why I pursued a Certificate in Christian Studies, Certificate in Christian Foundations and a Masters in Theology. I also have an immersive experience in editing for numerous websites. I have worked as an editor for over a decade and am currently the editor-in-chief at Christian Faith Guide. I enjoy working as an editor and feel privileged to share my expertise and help spread God’s word. You can read more about me on the about us page.
Related posts:
7 Best Psalms to Read for a Broken Heart (Psalms Prayers for the Brokenhearted)
5 Best Psalms to read when you are suffering (Psalms prayers to comfort the suffering)
What is the best Psalms to read in the morning? (7 best Psalms to read in the morning for a good day)
7 Psalms to read during the Holy Week (Psalms verses to read during the Holy Week)