JENNY'S PSALM REFLECTIONS: 9 VERSE 1

This week’s verse is Psalm 9 verse 1.

    "I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I would tell of all your wonderful deeds.”

Background:

Psalm 9 is a great victory Psalm as we read in the verse we are meditating on. Note the use of the words “whole heart”. It is sometimes difficult to be wholehearted in trust and praise of God especially when the chips are down. Many think, and sometimes we do as well, where is God in this mess? If there is a God, why does he not sort the world out? Why do good people suffer? Why is there global poverty, so many people displaced from their homes and living in fear?

Despite this evidence, God is indeed walking alongside us every step of the way. Jesus himself suffered on the cross and while on earth he did not comply with suffering. He fought it. He gave bread to the hungry and defended those threatened with death. His death on the cross is the place where Jesus finally and completely showed that love is stronger than anything, even stronger than death. We are called to love and show compassion even when it hurts.

We may not understand all that God is doing, but we trust that God knows what He is doing! Continue to praise the Lord even when times are hard. On the day of my father’s funeral, a robin suddenly appeared, singing his heart out and I always associate now the robin’s song with praise yet sadness. However, suffering can make us stronger and good times come again.

Meditation

1. FIND A Relaxing PLACE. 

As this Psalm is a song of praise try to play some joyful music in the background to your meditation. Light a candle, if safe, to remind you of God’s presence.

2. Focus on your breathing.

Pay attention to in-breaths and out-breaths. You may think of breathing in God’s life and peace and breathing out any tension.

3. Be aware of your body.

Let your aches and pains be there. Rest your hands in your lap; you don’t need to be doing anything with them now. Rest your feet on the floor; you don’t need to go anywhere. Shrug your shoulders, ease your neck. Take time to become still…

4. Say the verses aloud to yourself

Say the verse aloud to yourself. Read it again slowly, listening. As in this Psalm, if there is a particular need at the moment, ask the question, “Father, is there something in my life You are talking to me about?”.

5.  Sit quietly

Sit quietly and see whether anything about it strikes you as important for you. Tell God what it is. Ask God for what you need. Make a note of anything you want to remember. 

6. Finish with this prayer:

Remember Lord all who cry to you. Do not forget us but let us praise and rejoice that you are with us always. Amen.