Some days are harder than others. You may feel worried, discouraged, or unsure what to pray.
The Psalms can help because they do not avoid difficult emotions. Here are three Psalms to read when you are having a difficult day.
1. Psalm 13 when you are tired of waiting
Psalm 13 begins with David asking how long his difficult situation will continue. He does not hide how he feels. He tells God that he is worried and sad and asks God to look at him and answer him.
That can be helpful when something has been going on for a long time. Maybe you are waiting for an answer. Maybe you have been praying about the same situation for weeks or months. You can tell God that you are tired of waiting.
Psalm 13 also does not end where it begins. David eventually says that he trusts in God’s love. That does not mean the problem has suddenly disappeared. It means he is choosing to remember who God is while he is still waiting.
You might pray:
“God, I am tired of this situation. Help me trust You while I wait.”
2. Psalm 46 when you are afraid
Psalm 46 begins:
“God is our protection and our strength. He always helps in times of trouble.”
The Psalm goes on to describe the earth shaking, mountains falling, oceans roaring, and nations in conflict. In other words, the writer is not describing a peaceful situation. That makes the opening words even more meaningful.
You may have something that feels unstable right now. Maybe you are worried about your health, something is happening at work, or you are concerned about someone you love.
Psalm 46 can remind you that trouble does not mean God is absent.
Later in the Psalm comes the familiar instruction to be still and know that He is God. You might stop for a moment and simply pray:
“God, I am afraid about this. Help me remember that You are with me.”
Then tell Him what you are afraid of.
3. Psalm 121 when you need help
Psalm 121 begins:
“I look up to the hills. But where does my help come from?”
The psalm then says help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. That is exactly what we can remember.
You may have a decision ahead of you, be going through a difficult season, or simply feel tired and unsure how you are going to get through the next few days.
Psalm 121 keeps returning to God’s care. It talks about God watching over you as you go out and come in.
You could read this Psalm before a trip, a doctor’s appointment, an important meeting, or any situation where you are asking God for help.
Choose a Psalm
Choose the Psalm that best fits what you are dealing with. If you are tired of waiting, read Psalm 13. If you are afraid, read Psalm 46. If you need help for what is ahead, read Psalm 121.
Then read it again later. You might save one verse on your phone or write it down somewhere you will see it.
You can also turn part of the Psalm into your own prayer. The Psalms give you words when you do not have many words of your own.
Start with one of these three and talk with God about what is happening today.