5 psalms to read for opening prayers (psalms prayers to use as opening prayers)

I have always believed that it is good and essential to begin any meeting or gathering with an opening prayer. Last week, in our bible study session, as we argued about what the bible teaches about opening prayers, a colleague asked what verses in the Book of Psalms talk about opening prayers.

I was delighted to give my response, given my knowledge as a theologian with a deep understanding of the bible. I then decided to write this article for those of you who would be wondering which Psalm to read for opening prayers during a gathering or meeting.

5 psalms to read for opening prayers.

Psalm 8:1

“Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory in the heavens.”

This verse highlights the majesty and greatness of God. It encourages the recognition of God’s supreme and majestic nature. It helps to set the right tone by acknowledging God’s majesty and emphasizing His universal sovereignty in opening prayers.

Psalm 19:14

 “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

This Psalm creates a reverent and humble atmosphere as the gathering or event begins. Therefore, using this Psalm in your opening prayer can be a meaningful way to set the right tone by expressing a desire for words and thoughts that honor God.

Psalm 100

“Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs. Know that the Lord is God. It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, the sheep of his pasture.”

This Psalm emphasizes the importance of starting any religious gathering with a joyful and thankful heart. Therefore, using this Psalm in an opening prayer creates a welcoming and celebratory atmosphere.

Psalm 46:1-2

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea.”

David speaks of how reliable and constant God is when you call on Him. Therefore, incorporating this Psalm in an opening prayer creates a sense of security and faith as a group comes together to start an event.

Psalm 51:10

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.”

This prayer in this Psalm expresses the psalmist’s desire for purification and spiritual renewal. This Psalm is associated with repentance and a humble acknowledgment of one’s need for God’s cleansing. It invites God’s presence and guidance during a meeting.

How to use Psalms as an opening prayer

Many bible scholars believe that using a Psalm as an opening prayer is a meaningful way to start a religious service, gathering, or personal meditation.

Here is how to use Psalms as an opening prayer;

• Select a Psalm in line with the purpose of your gathering.
• Read and reflect on it for some time.
• Personalize it to make it relevant to your gathering or theme.
• Tailor the tone of your prayer to match the purpose of the event.
• Conclude the opening prayer by thanking God, invoking His presence, or expressing your intention for the gathering.

Can you pray these Psalms at any other time?

Some theologians believe that these Psalms are meant for meetings or Christian gatherings. However, they also think you can use them for personal devotions, like when beginning your devotional time.

Therefore, you can use these psalms at any time when you choose to pray to God. For example, you can use Psalm 100 to pray for Thanksgiving before a meal.

Using Psalms as opening prayers can bring a sense of spirituality and mindfulness to various aspects of life.