Psalm 77 Prayer Guide 

Try entering into lament with this three-part rhythm: Part 1 Become present to the presence of God: “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth. The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (Psalm 46:10-11) Pause in silence before God. Practice breathing slowly and deeply. As you inhale, invite the Holy Spirit to fill every part of your being- your body, mind, imagination, affections and emotions. As you exhale, release any burdens you are carrying into this time of prayer. Repeat this breathing prayer until you have brought your whole self -‘as is’ -before the presence of God. Optional prayer of approach: “Father, there are times when I fear my voice is not loud enough, bold enough, true enough to be heard by you, the God who listens. I am weak, heart-heavy, soul-starved- yearnings for a peace only you can bring. And so I wait, as covenant people do- for a cloud by day, fire by night; the leading of your Spirit.” (Endless Grace, by Ryan Whitaker Smith and Dan Wilt: Psalm 77). Part 2 Slowly read from Psalm 77:1-9 (NIV) out loud: (for an audio version click here) 1 I cried out to God for help; I cried out to God to hear me. 2 When I was in distress, I sought the Lord; at night I stretched out untiring hands, and I would not be comforted. 3 I remembered you, God, and I groaned; I meditated, and my spirit grew faint. 4 You kept my eyes from closing; I was too troubled to speak. 5 I thought about the former days, the years of long ago; 6 I remembered my songs in the night. My heart meditated and my spirit asked: 7 “Will the Lord reject forever? Will he never show his favor again? 8 Has his unfailing love vanished forever? Has his promise failed for all time? 9 Has God forgotten to be merciful? Has he in anger withheld his compassion?” Part 3 Pray your own lament psalm- for yourself, or on behalf of someone who is suffering in your world. Describe the trouble in detail to God. Express your honest emotions: "Lord, I am feeling sad about…; "… angry…; “… afraid… Bring him your honest questions: "Lord, why….?; "How long, Lord, before you…?; "Where are you in…? Make your plea to God: "Please, Lord…; "Remember back when you…; Do it again, Lord!” The psalms were originally written as lyrics, as prayers set to music. Throughout the history of Israel and the church, the people of God have sung the psalms. Song invites us to internalize the Word of God with the whole self- body, mind, imagination, emotions and affections. Take time to listen to a version of Psalm 77 set to music. Try taking the psalm song with you into your day. From the album Asaph (2014) by the band Loud Harp. loudharp.com