We all go through hard times, and sometimes, there seems to be no possible way out other than turning to the Lord. Last week was a trying time for one of the members of my Bible study who had lost a loved one.
Being a theologian with a great understanding of the Bible, I saw how much they were suffering and decided to share a few Psalms with them to help them through their dark times.
I thought I’d write this article to share with those of you who may also be wondering what Psalms are the best to read when you are suffering.
5 Best Psalms to Read When You Are Suffering
PSALMS 46
“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, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.”
This is often labeled as a Psalm of trust because, in this chapter, we proclaim the Lord’s protection and declare that we will not fear in times of trouble.
The Psalmist proclaims that the Lord will help us in times of trouble; the only condition is to be still.
PSALM 40
“I waited patiently for the Lord; he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of the mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear the Lord and put their trust in him.”
This chapter shows how David waited patiently for the Lord, and He heard his complaint. The chapter ends with a powerful prayer, where David declares that the Lord is his helper, and He will keep thinking of him.
PSALM 23
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
In this chapter, The Psalmist declares that even through the dark times he is facing, he will not fear because God will comfort and shield him.
As you keep on reading through the chapter, you will find powerful prayer points to proclaim light at the end of the turmoil you’re going through.
PSALM 9: 9-10
“I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and rejoice in you; I will sing the praises of your name, O Most High.”
These verses paint the picture of a God who is powerful and shelters the oppressed. The Bible tells us in these verses that the Lord does not ignore cries coming from people who are suffering.
PSALM 18
“I love you, Lord, my strength. The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I have been saved from my enemies. The cords of death entangled me; the torrents of destruction overwhelmed me. The cords of the grave coiled around me; the snares of death confronted me.”
This is a very moving song by David after being rescued from Saul and his enemies. David expresses how the Lord heard his cry in his distress and delivered him.
What Is a Good Psalm to Read When You Are in Pain?
Some Christians suggest that a good Psalm to read when you are in pain is Psalm 6. In this chapter, David is depressed and overwhelmed with pain and sorrow.
In David’s lament, he hopes that the Lord will show him mercy and pity him. It is not uncommon to feel depressed and experience deep pain.
So, as you read this Psalm, turn it into a prayer and believe that the Lord will hear your plea.
Can you Read These Psalms for Someone Else?
Some Christians agree that these Psalms can be read for someone else. However, others argue that Psalms are very personal prayers and that most of them are songs to God.
Hence, people should read them on their own and use them to pray over themselves.
How to use these Psalms to comfort those who are suffering?
In times of trouble, people may not be able to properly express what they feel. Psalms can help them openly express to the Lord their feelings without having to overthink them.
Some Christians suggest prayers such as Psalm 31 as a source of encouragement to get people through their suffering.
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.
Related posts:
7 Best Psalms to Read for a Broken Heart (Psalms Prayers for the Brokenhearted)
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)