Learning to Pray Through the Psalms

by James W. Sire

Overview

Weariness. Wonder. Joy. Longing. Anger. These are the feelings of the Psalms: honest expressions of pain and joy penned by real people in the midst of real life circumstances. Though they were written centuries ago, the Psalms still resonate deeply with us today, giving voice to our thoughts and longings: "Out of the depths I cry to you, O LORD." (Psalm 130:1) "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1) "As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God." (Psalm 84:2) In Learning to Pray Through the Psalms, James W. Sire teaches us to take our appreciation for this rich book of Scripture a step further. Choosing ten specific psalms, Sire offers background information that helps us read each one with deeper insight and then lays out a meditative, step-by-step approach to using the psalmists' words as a guide for our own personal conversation with God. A group study is also included in each chapter, along with a guide for praying through the psalm in community. The Lord loves when his people pray. And his Word is a powerful tool for framing honest, intimate prayers. Sire's innovative approach will enrich our minds and our souls as we read more perceptively and pray with all of our emotions.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780830833320
Publisher:	InterVarsity Press
Publication date:	12/12/2005
Pages:	229
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.25(h) x 0.70(d)

About the Author

James W. Sire (Ph.D., University of Missouri), formerly editor at InterVarsity Press, is a frequent guest lecturer at colleges and universities in the United States and Europe. He has written many books and Bible studies, including The Universe Next Door, Naming the Elephant, Habits of the Mind and Jesus the Reason.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Becoming Right with God—Psalm 32
2. Waiting for the Lord—Psalm 130
3. Night Thoughts—Psalm 4
4. A Morning Meditation—Psalm 5
5. Thirsting for God—Psalms 42-43
6. A Plea for Deliverance from Slander—Psalm 7
7. A Blazing Song of Joy—Psalm 84
8. Praying Our Anger—Psalm 137
9. The God Who Knows Me—Psalm 139
10. Our Mighty Fortress—Psalm 46
11. Teach Us to Pray
Appendix: Guide for Small Group Leaders
Notes
Annotated Bibliography

What People are Saying About This

Eugene H. Peterson

"The country of the Psalms--its soaring mountains, cascading streams, wildflower meadows of prayers--compels exploration. Jim Sire's wide-ranging intelligence, fused with his attentive spirit, makes him a welcome guide through this country, opening our eyes and ears--our hearts!--to these prayers that teach us to pray."
— Eugene H. Peterson, author of A Long Obedience in the Same Direction and translator of The Message

Phyllis Tickle

"At times intimate, at times pastoral, but always focused, Sire here creates a solid study of the Psalter for use in Christian devotion, be it private or corporate."
— Phyllis Tickle, author of The Divine Hours

Editorial Reviews

"The country of the Psalms—its soaring mountains, cascading streams, wildflower meadows of prayers—compels exploration. Jim Sire's wide-ranging intelligence, fused with his attentive spirit, makes him a welcome guide through this country, opening our eyes and ears—our hearts!—to these prayers that teach us to pray."

Eugene H. Peterson

"At times intimate, at times pastoral, but always focused, Sire here creates a solid study of the Psalter for use in Christian devotion, be it private or corporate."

Phyllis Tickle

"The country of the Psalms—its soaring mountains, cascading streams, wildflower meadows of prayers—compels exploration. Jim Sire's wide-ranging intelligence, fused with his attentive spirit, makes him a welcome guide through this country, opening our eyes and ears—our hearts!—to these prayers that teach us to pray."

Eugene H. Peterson, author of A Long Obedience in the Same Direction and translator of The Message

"At times intimate, at times pastoral, but always focused, Sire here creates a solid study of the Psalter for use in Christian devotion, be it private or corporate."

Phyllis Tickle, author of The Divine Hours

From the Publisher