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Journaling Psalm 119
April 26, 2005
I can skim over things so easily - with the best of them actually. As I'm spending time with God, I always try to look for ways to intentionally slow myself down. I look for ways to force myself to really read what God is saying in a passage, not just passing my eyes and mind briefly over a set of letters that happen to form words and sentances on a page.
Something I've started doing recently is praying through Psalm 119. In my journal, I do two things. On the left page, I'll copy the verses I'm reading longhand, word-for-word. This helps me really think about what I am reading (and writing). (I'm one of those guys who likes to take notes during sermons, meetings, etc. to help me stay on track). After written the section out, I'll read it several times.
Then, on the right page, I'll write the Psalm out in my own words, as my prayer to God. (I feel like I'm writing the Message part two here! I keep reminding myself that it's okay - I'm not editing Scripture, just trying to process it and pray it through for myself.) I'm not looking to capture every nuance of the original language, but instead to pray through the underlying meaning of the text.
For me, it's been a good way to stay focused and to really engage what I'm reading. I'll continue all the way through Psalm 119, and then decide where to go next. (Thinking about Proverbs, but we'll see when I get there). Anyway, you can click below to read a sample of the first few verses.
What a blessing to be a person of integrity, one who walkes in the boundaries that YHWH has laid out.It's an amazing thing to be someone who believes what God says about Himself and chases after Him with everything they've got.
This kind of person doesn't wander from the footsteps of their Master.
Father, you've laid out the principles for living your way, so that we can follow them with passion and dedication.
My hearts cry is that my life would be grounded in living out your word.
If it were, then I'd never be ashamed when I read and study your word.
When I discover your holy ways, I'll cry out from a pure and whole heart.
I will live out your words - don't leave me to myself.
How can someone like me keep his life on track? By living in step with your word.
I've gone after you with everything I am: keep me on the course you've
defined in your word.I value your word above anything and everything else - it keeps me from turning from you and your ways
YHWH, you're worthy of all glory - help me learn your way fully.
I have proclaimed all the wonderful things you have set in place.
The truth you've given to me about yourself is a gift I delight in more than every dollar on earth.
I will think deeply about your words and consider your way in everything I do.
I will take joy in putting your commands into practice - I won't live
my life as if I didn't know you at all.
Comments
that is a wonderful, wonderful practice bill. God has used that so many times when i'm just not "getting" something to open my eyes. hope you continue to grow in and through this and now... i'm going to spend some time that way myself, it's been a while.
Posted by: jmw at April 26, 2005 10:36 PM
Great idea. I'm reading the minor prophets now (lest I get to heaven and am accosted by Zepheniah, demanding why I never studied his book). I think this practice of yours is better suited to Psalms than Prophecy! :)
Posted by: Tim at April 27, 2005 04:43 PM
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Bill,
What a great way to personalize the word. To help internalize it. I am going to try it and am sure it will benifit me. Thanks,
Be Blessed,
Pete
Posted by: pete porter at April 26, 2005 04:29 PM