PRAYING WITH SCRIPTURE
Use the questions below the Scripture passage to help you “pray” verses 1-5 from Psalm 42. For example, picturing a thirsty deer approaching a river may prompt realizations about your need for being close to God. Share those things with God.
As a deer longs for flowing streams,
so my soul longs for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
When shall I come and behold
the face of God?
- Am I longing for God?
- If so, what am I looking for?
- If I am not longing and thirsty for God, what has happened? Why am I not seeking God out?
- What do I want to confess to God about my relationship with him?
My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me continually,
“Where is your God?
- What am I anxious and stressed about?
- Why am I still carrying these burdens?
- Why am I not trust God with them?
These things I remember,as I pour out my soul:
how I went with the throng,
and led them in procession to the house of God,
with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving,
a multitude keeping festival.
- What joyful things do I remember about worshiping God?
- What relationships give me comfort and support?
- What do I have to celebrate?
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my help and my God.
- How can I express my weariness and fear to God?
- How can I praise him for the hope that is still within me?
