As the rain and the snow come down from heaven, and do not return to it without watering the earth … so is My word that goes out from My mouth. It will not return to Me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.     (Isaiah 55:10-11)
 
A small group of women has been meeting weekly over the summer to study selected psalms and then use them as ingredients for corporate prayer. I’d like to share a few samples with you:
 
Psalm 103   As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear Him.  For He knows what we are made of, remembering that we are dust.  (vv13-14)
We praise You, Lord, for Your compassion toward us. Thank You for remembering that we are dust – weak, stumbling, finite creatures.
 
Psalm 27   Though an army encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; though war arise against me, yet I will be confident. One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life … (vv3-4)
We confess, Lord, that we do experience fear when we face circumstances over which we have no control. Help us to singlemindedly seek You today and every day so we will be ready when fear strikes.
 
Psalm 107   Some wandered in the desolate wilderness … They were hungry and thirsty; their spirits failed within them. Then they cried out to the LORD in their trouble; He rescued them from their distress… Let them give thanks to the LORD for His faithful love and His wonderful works for all humanity.    (vv4-8)
Thank You for rescuing us when we were wandering far from You, hungry and thirsty and purposeless. We lift up (name) who is in that lost condition right now. Bring him (or her) to the end of himself. May he cry out to You and experience Your redemption.
 
Psalm 42   Deep calls to deep at the roar of Your waterfall; all Your breakers and Your waves have gone over me … Why are you cast down, O my soul, and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise Him, my salvation and my God.    (vv7,11)
We pray, Lord, for people we know who suffer from depression. Remind them that You see and know them, that You love them with a steadfast love, and that they will not walk this dark valley forever. 
 
I am taking some time off from the prayer blog this month.  Check your inbox on Monday, August 31, for the next edition.