Summer
in the
PSALMS
Start Date: Sunday, June 8, 2025
Psalm 103
1 Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and all that is within me,
bless his holy name!
2 Bless the LORD, O my soul,
and forget not all his benefits,
3 who forgives all your iniquity,
who heals all your diseases,
4 who redeems your life from the pit,
who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy,
5 who satisfies you with good
so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
6 The LORD works righteousness
and justice for all who are oppressed.
7 He made known his ways to Moses,
his acts to the people of Israel.
8 The LORD is merciful and gracious,
slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love.
9 He will not always chide,
nor will he keep his anger forever.
10 He does not deal with us according to our sins,
nor repay us according to our iniquities.
11 For as high as the heavens are above the earth,
so great is his steadfast love toward those who fear him;
12 as far as the east is from the west,
so far does he remove our transgressions from us.
13 As a father shows compassion to his children,
so the LORD shows compassion to those who fear him.
14 For he knows our frame;
he remembers that we are dust.
15 As for man, his days are like grass;
he flourishes like a flower of the field;
16 for the wind passes over it, and it is gone,
and its place knows it no more.
17 But the steadfast love of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him,
and his righteousness to children’s children,
18 to those who keep his covenant
and remember to do his commandments.
19 The LORD has established his throne in the heavens,
and his kingdom rules over all.
20 Bless the LORD, O you his angels,
you mighty ones who do his word,
obeying the voice of his word!
21 Bless the LORD, all his hosts,
his ministers, who do his will!
22 Bless the LORD, all his works,
in all places of his dominion.
Bless the LORD, O my soul!
8-Week Reading Plan
This Summer, you’re invited to join a churchwide journey through the Book of Psalms! From June 8 through the end of July, we’ll read all 150 psalms together using a simple daily reading plan – with Sunday readings tied directly to worship. The Psalms teach us to pray honestly, worship deeply, and trust God in every season. Whether you’re traveling or staying close to home, this is a great way to stay rooted in Scripture as a church family.
Psalm 103 – Insights and Key Terms
Overview
Psalm 103 is a song of praise, focusing on God’s kindness and mercy. David first praises God for how He has blessed him personally, then expands to show how God has been faithful to all His people. Finally, the psalm ends with a call for everything in creation to join in the praise. Main Ideas
• Praise God with Everything – Verse 1 teaches us to praise God with our whole being, not just in words, but from our heart, mind, and actions.
• Remembering God’s Blessings – Verses 2-5 remind us to remember the many ways God has blessed us, especially His forgiveness, healing, and care.
• God’s Justice and Mercy – Verses 6-19 remind us that God is fair and just, but also full of mercy. He gives us what we need, even when we don’t deserve it.
• The Call to Praise – The final verses (20-22) show that not only humans but all creation is called to praise God for His greatness.
Key Terms and What They Mean
• “My soul” (v. 1)
This means the whole of who we are—our mind, heart, and spirit. David is saying, “I am calling on all of me to praise God.”
• “Redeem” (v. 4)
To redeem means to rescue or save. In this psalm, God saves us from death and from the punishment we deserve. He gives us life and freedom.
• “Steadfast love” (v. 4, 8, 11, 17)
This means God’s unchanging, faithful love. It’s a love that sticks with us no matter what.
• “Compassion” (v. 4, 13)
Compassion is God’s kindness and care for us, especially when we’re weak or struggling. He treats us like a loving parent cares for their children.
• Eagle imagery (v. 5)
God gives us strength and renewal, like an eagle who soars high and strong. Even when we’re tired, God renews our strength.
What This Reveals About God
• God is full of mercy and grace.
He forgives us even when we don’t deserve it (v. 3–4). He’s patient and slow to anger (v. 8). He shows us His love again and again.
• God is fair and just.
He defends those who are oppressed and makes things right (v. 6). His kingdom is over everything, from the heavens to the earth (v. 19).
• God knows us deeply and loves us.
He understands our weaknesses (v. 14). He doesn’t punish us for every mistake, but treats us with compassion (vv. 8–9).
• God’s love never ends.
His love lasts forever (v. 17). He is always faithful, and His mercy stretches to our children and beyond (v. 18).
Living Out Psalm 103
• Praise God from your heart.
David calls us to praise God with everything we are, not just in words, but in how we live and think.
• Remember His blessings.
Take time to think about how God has blessed you—especially His forgiveness and care—and let that remind you to praise Him.
• Trust in God’s mercy.
Even when life is hard or we feel we’ve failed, God is compassionate and forgives. Lean into His mercy.
• Live in response to God’s love.
Remember that God is good and faithful, and let that inspire you to live in obedience and gratitude.
Cross References to Think About
• Exodus 34:6-7 – God describes Himself as compassionate and slow to anger.
• Isaiah 40:31 – Those who trust in God will find their strength renewed, like the eagle.
• Matthew 6:9-10 – Jesus teaches us to pray for God’s will to be done on earth, just like it is in heaven. This ties into how the angels in Psalm 103 do God’s will with joy and obedience.
• Romans 5:6-11 – God’s mercy is shown to us through Jesus, who died for us even when we were sinners.
Psalm 103 - 6 Days of Devotions and Prayer
Day 1 – Praise That Starts Inside
Read: Psalm 103:1–2
“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name!”
Praise doesn’t begin with our circumstances. It starts deep inside—with our soul, our mind, our emotions, even when we don’t feel like praising. David talks to himself here, reminding his soul not to forget God’s goodness. Sometimes that’s exactly what we need: to pause, remember, and speak the truth to our own hearts.
Reflection:
What helps you remember God’s goodness? Is there anything right now your soul needs to be reminded of?
Prayer:
Lord, help me praise You with more than just words. Teach my heart to remember. Stir my soul to worship You—even when I’m tired, even when I forget. You are always worthy. Amen.
Day 2 – The God Who Heals and Restores
Read: Psalm 103:3–5
“He forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases… so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.”
God meets us in our need—with forgiveness, healing, and strength we can’t create on our own. He doesn’t just patch us up; He renews us from the inside out. Whether your body is weak or your spirit is tired, God offers more than relief. He offers restoration.
Reflection:
Where have you seen God’s healing or renewing work in your life? Is there an area where you need His touch today?
Prayer:
God, thank You for the ways You’ve brought healing and strength to my life. Where I’m tired or broken, please renew me again. Help me trust that You are the source of every good thing. Amen.
Day 3 – Mercy for the Long Haul
Read: Psalm 103:6–12
“The Lord is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love… as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”
God doesn’t treat us as our sins deserve. He’s slow to anger and quick to forgive. That means we don’t have to live under guilt or shame—because God has already put our sins far away. His love reaches farther than we can measure.
Reflection:
Is there anything you’re holding onto that God has already forgiven? How would your day look different if you lived from grace instead of guilt?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You that Your mercy is bigger than my sin. Help me to trust Your forgiveness and let go of shame. Let me live today as someone who’s been set free. Amen.
Day 4 – A Father’s Compassion
Read: Psalm 103:13–14
“As a father has compassion on his children, so the Lord has compassion on those who fear him. For he knows how we are formed; he remembers that we are dust.”
God isn’t surprised by our weakness. He knows we’re fragile, and He responds with tenderness. His compassion is personal—like a loving parent who sees the whole picture and chooses to care, not condemn.
Reflection:
How does it change your view of God to remember that He knows you’re dust—and still loves you?
Prayer:
Father, thank You for knowing me completely and still loving me. When I feel small or weak, help me rest in Your compassion, not in my performance. Amen.
Day 5 – His Love Lasts
Read: Psalm 103:15–18
“But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear him.”
Our lives are short—like grass that grows and fades. But God’s love outlasts us. It covers our children and grandchildren. It remains steady when everything else changes. This psalm calls us not just to enjoy His love, but to pass it on through a life of trust and obedience.
Reflection:
What part of your life has been shaped by God’s faithfulness over time? What legacy of trust are you leaving?
Prayer:
Everlasting God, help me anchor my life in Your love. Teach me to walk with You day by day—and to pass on a faith that lasts. Amen.
Day 6 – Join the Song
Read: Psalm 103:20–22
“Bless the Lord, all his works, in all places of his dominion. Bless the Lord, O my soul!”
David ends this psalm by zooming out—from his soul, to all people, to angels and all creation. Everything that exists is meant to worship the Lord. And we get to be part of that great chorus. When we praise God, we’re joining heaven’s song.
Reflection:
What’s one way you can “bless the Lord” today—in words, in action, or in your attitude?
Prayer:
Lord, I want to join in the praise that fills heaven and earth. Help me live in a way that gives You glory today. From my soul to my surroundings, let everything I do honor You. Amen.
Psalm 5: My King and My God
Verses: Psalm 5:1–12
Prayer as Dependence, Not Performance
David begins not with speeches, but with sighs. He prays from a place of vulnerability, not eloquence. Psalm 5 shows that real prayer starts in weakness and grows into confident expectation. Bringing our cries to God first—rather than last—reveals a heart grounded in trust.
The Character of God Shapes the Cry
David addresses his plea to “my King and my God.” Prayer here is personal and covenantal—it’s not shouted into a void, but aimed at the One who rules justly and welcomes the humble.
Morning as Spiritual Posture
David doesn’t just pray in the morning—he offers it like a sacrifice. This isn’t routine—it’s reverence. Morning prayer becomes a daily declaration: Before I face the world, I will meet with God.
Holiness and the Moral Ground of Prayer
God’s holiness is central: He rejects pride, deceit, and violence. David aligns with God's moral clarity—not because he’s perfect, but because he’s forgiven and loyal. Justice in prayer requires humility in heart.
Mercy Makes the Way
David enters God’s house not by merit but by “the abundance of Your steadfast love.” God’s covenant ḥesed becomes the doorway to boldness and reverent worship.
Guidance in Conflict
David, surrounded by enemies, doesn’t first ask for deliverance—he asks for direction. “Lead me… make Your way straight.” Even in pressure, obedience remains the goal.
The Cost of Deceit
Lying is portrayed as soul-corrupting. David seeks God’s judgment not for revenge, but to uphold truth and restrain evil. It’s a reminder: small lies can tear at the fabric of trust.
Refuge and Favor in a Broken World
Taking refuge in God isn’t naive—it’s powerful. David ends with a vision of joy and protection: a community singing under God’s covering. God’s favor isn’t abstract—it’s like a shield surrounding the faithful.
Psalm 5 Devotions: My King and My God
Daily Reflections from Psalm 5
Day 1 – A Cry in the Morning (Psalm 5:1–3) David begins his day not with strength, but surrender. He lifts groaning, wordless prayers with the hope that God hears before the day even begins.
Prayer: Lord, teach me to begin each day by turning to you. Help me to bring not just words, but my heart, even when it’s heavy. Let me learn to wait for you with hope and trust.
Day 2 – The God Who Hears and Reigns (Psalm 5:2) Calling God “my King and my God” is not rhetoric—it’s the language of covenant. David knows who he’s praying to: a God who listens and leads.
Prayer: My King and my God, remind me that you are both close and sovereign. Help me pray with reverence and confidence, knowing you rule with love and justice.
Day 3 – The Moral Ground of Prayer (Psalm 5:4–6) God is holy and hates injustice. Prayer isn’t a way to manipulate God—but to align with His character.
Prayer: Holy God, help me hate what you hate—not in pride, but in humility. Let my prayers be shaped by your holiness and my desire to live in your truth.
Day 4 – Mercy Makes a Way (Psalm 5:7) David doesn’t approach God because of his merit, but God’s mercy. Worship becomes a response to grace, not a reward for righteousness.
Prayer: Gracious God, thank you for your love that makes a way. I come to you not because I am worthy, but because you are merciful. Teach me to worship with reverence and gratitude.
Day 5 – Guidance Under Pressure (Psalm 5:8) When enemies close in, David doesn’t ask for escape—he asks for clarity. He seeks the straight path, not the quick one.
Prayer: God of wisdom, lead me on a straight path. In the face of conflict and confusion, teach me to follow your way. Help me respond with obedience, not reaction.
Day 6 – Surrounded by Joy and Shielded by Favor (Psalm 5:11–12) God’s joy is not distant—it surrounds those who trust Him. His favor isn’t luck—it’s a shield.
Prayer: Lord, I take refuge in you. Surround me with your favor, steady my heart with your joy, and help me live in the security of your faithful presence.
Psalm 71 Insights: A Life of Continual Praise
God Is a Lifelong Refuge
From birth to old age, the psalmist sees God not just as an emergency shelter but as a permanent refuge. The repeated imagery of rock, fortress, and refuge reflects a deeply ingrained trust. The word "continually" underscores a lifetime rhythm of dependence on Him.
Faith Under Misinterpretation
In verse 7, the psalmist is seen as "a portent to many", suggesting that others wrongly interpret his suffering as divine punishment—much like Job. Yet, he does not waver but instead views his trials through the lens of God’s righteousness.
Aging with Purpose
The psalmist does not retreat in old age; rather, he seeks to proclaim God’s power to future generations. He sees aging not as decline but as an opportunity to testify.
The Discipline of Praise
Praise is not merely a reaction to good fortune—it’s a way of life. Even before deliverance comes, he fills his mouth with praise, singing of God's deeds through both weakness and strength.
Memory as the Root of Hope
Verses 19-21 reveal that hope is anchored in remembrance of God's past faithfulness rather than changed circumstances. The language of revival echoes resurrection themes: "You will revive me again."
A Call to Legacy
In verse 18, the psalmist expresses a commitment to generational testimony, proclaiming God’s righteousness to "all who are to come." Faith is not merely personal but a legacy to be passed down.
Maturity Shaped by Worship
Spiritual maturity in Psalm 71 is marked by resilience, gratitude, and an eagerness to speak of God’s goodness. Worship and trust shape the instincts of a life steeped in faith.
Psalm 71: A Life of Continual Praise
Day 1: A Life of Dependence
Scripture: Psalm 71:3 God isn’t just a refuge in times of crisis—He is our daily dwelling place. Trust grows through a lifetime of returning to Him.
Prayer: Lord, be my safe home today. Let me run to You not only when I’m in trouble but as a rhythm of my life.
Reflection: What small habit could help you turn to God more regularly throughout the day?
Day 2: Misunderstood but Held
Scripture: Psalm 71:7 Being "a portent to many" means others may misjudge your suffering, but God sees your heart and holds your story with compassion.
Prayer: God, help me trust You when I feel misunderstood. Remind me that You know the truth of my heart.
Reflection: When have you felt misjudged, and how might God be reframing that part of your story?
Day 3: Old Age, New Mission
Scripture: Psalm 71:18 Aging doesn’t mean our purpose fades—it matures. There is always someone who needs to hear what God has done in your life.
Prayer: Lord, don’t let me coast through life. Use me to pass on Your goodness to those coming after me.
Reflection: Who in your life might benefit from hearing how God has been faithful to you?
Day 4: The Practice of Praise
Scripture: Psalm 71:8 Praise isn’t just a reaction to blessings—it’s a discipline of trust. Even before resolution comes, the psalmist fills his mouth with God’s praise.
Prayer: Teach me to praise You today, Lord—not because everything is fixed, but because You are faithful.
Reflection: What can you thank and praise God for today—even if it still feels unresolved?
Day 5: Hope from the Depths
Scripture: Psalm 71:20 God revives us not by removing struggles, but by meeting us in the depths and lifting us again. Looking back at past deliverance fuels hope for today.
Prayer: God, remind me of all the ways You’ve lifted me before. Give me confidence that You will lift me again.
Reflection: When has God brought you through hardship before, and how can that memory strengthen you today?
Day 6: Tell the Next Generation
Scripture: Psalm 71:18 The psalmist sees testimony as a sacred duty. Someone needs to hear how God has carried you. Your story of faith is a gift for others.
Prayer: Lord, give me boldness to speak of Your faithfulness. Let my life be a witness of Your power and love.
Reflection: What part of your story are you being invited to share with someone this week?
Psalm 1 Insights: A Journey Into Blessedness
Reflection on Psalm 1
"Meditation in the law does not lie in mere perusal but in practical reflection and fulfillment. As the apostle says: 'Whether you eat or drink, or whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God.'" — Hilary of Poitiers (c. 310-367 AD)
Blessedness: A Deeper Joy
The word blessed in Psalm 1 signifies more than fleeting happiness—it speaks of a deep, lasting joy, rooted in God’s favor and a life aligned with His ways.
A Path of Choices
Psalm 1:1 outlines a progression: walking in bad counsel, standing in sinful ways, and sitting with scoffers. This illustrates how our thoughts, behaviors, and identity are shaped over time by the influences we choose.
The Law of the LORD: More Than Rules
The law in Psalm 1 is God’s instruction—His living Word meant to shape our hearts and draw us closer to Him. Jesus Himself, the Word made flesh, is the ultimate embodiment of God's guidance.
Meditating Day and Night
Meditation isn’t just reading—it’s deep, intentional reflection that transforms our heart. Carrying God's Word with us throughout daily life brings steady spiritual growth.
The Tree by the Streams
The tree in verse 3 paints a picture of stability, nourishment, and fruitfulness—a life deeply rooted in God’s Word. Growth comes steadily, and the impact is lasting.
Withering vs. Vitality
A withered leaf speaks of spiritual disconnect, while a healthy leaf reflects the continual nourishment found in prayer, Scripture, and God’s presence.
True Prosperity
Psalm 1 defines prosperity not as material wealth but as flourishing in faith—bearing fruit, enduring seasons, and thriving in purpose.
Setbacks & Growth
Even the faithful face challenges, but setbacks refine and prepare us for greater fruitfulness, deepening our dependence on God.
The Wicked: Rootless & Unstable
Psalm 1 contrasts righteousness with the wicked—described as chaff, unstable, easily blown away, and disconnected from God's truth.
The LORD Watches Over His Own
God's watchful care over the righteous means protection and purpose. Their path is known by Him—even through hardships.
Jesus & Redemption
A righteous life avoids sinful influence but remains engaged with the world's need for redemption. Jesus seeks and restores the lost, speaking truth with grace.
Judgment & Foundations
The wicked may attempt to justify themselves, but true judgment reveals the foundation of every life—whether rooted in God or not.
Psalm 1 Devotions: A Daily Reflection
"Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked, but whose delight is in the law of the LORD." Psalm 1:1-2
Day 1: Rooted in Delight
Scripture: Psalm 1:2 True delight in God's instruction transforms our thinking and habits. Rather than approaching Scripture out of obligation, we are invited to find joy in knowing God's will. Reflection: What passage of Scripture has brought you joy or clarity in your walk with God?
Prayer: Lord, teach me to delight in Your Word. Let it not feel like a duty but a joy. Give me a hunger for Your truth and a desire to be shaped by Your voice.
Day 2: Watch Your Path
Scripture: Psalm 1:1 The people we listen to, the environments we dwell in, and the patterns we embrace shape our hearts. Reflection: Whose counsel do you most often receive? What paths have your feet been walking?
Prayer: Father, guard my steps. Lead me away from the influence of the scoffer and into the company of the wise. Let my choices honor You and build up others.
Day 3: Fruit in Season
Scripture: Psalm 1:3 A tree doesn't produce fruit all the time—it bears fruit in season. Likewise, our spiritual growth may feel slow or invisible, but God is still at work. Reflection: What area of your spiritual life do you feel is still growing, even if unseen?
Prayer: Lord, help me be patient as I wait for the fruit of Your work in my life. Keep me steady, watered by Your Word, trusting that You are growing me in Your time.
Day 4: Withered or Watered?
Scripture: Psalm 1:3 A withered leaf speaks of dryness and disconnection. A green leaf points to a steady source of life. Reflection: Are you feeling spiritually dry, or deeply nourished today? How can you reconnect with God’s presence?
Prayer: God, breathe life into the places in me that feel dry. Let the water of Your presence soak into every part of me. Revive my spirit and make me flourish again.
Day 5: The Wind and the Chaff
Scripture: Psalm 1:4 Chaff is easily blown away because it has no weight or root. Reflection: What gives your life weight and meaning? What are you investing in that will truly last?
Prayer: Father, keep me from chasing what is empty. Anchor me in what is eternal. Let my life be meaningful and rooted in You.
Day 6: The Watched-Over Way
Scripture: Psalm 1:6 The Lord watches over the way of the righteous. He sees, knows, and cares. Reflection: Even if your path today feels uncertain, how can you rest in the truth that God is guiding your steps?
Prayer: God, thank You for watching over me. I trust You with my journey. Even when the road is unclear, let me rest in the promise that You are near.
Final Thoughts
Psalm 1 invites us into a life rooted in God's presence—a life nourished, thriving, and anchored in His truth. As you reflect, pray, and engage, may you be drawn deeper into His care and wisdom.
8-Week Reading Schedule
June 8, Sunday
Psalm 1
June 9, Monday
Psalm 2, Psalm 3, Psalm 4
June 10, Tuesday
Psalm 6, Psalm 7, Psalm 8
June 11, Wednesday
Psalm 9, Psalm 10, Psalm 11
June 12, Thursday
Psalm 12, Psalm 13, Psalm 14
June 13, Friday
Psalm 15, Psalm 17, Psalm 18
June 14, Saturday
Psalm 19, Psalm 20, Psalm 21
June 15, Sunday
Psalm 71
June 16, Monday
Psalm 22, Psalm 23, Psalm 25
June 17, Tuesday
Psalm 26, Psalm 27, Psalm 28
June 18, Wednesday
Psalm 29, Psalm 30, Psalm 31
June 19, Thursday
Psalm 32, Psalm 33, Psalm 34
June 20, Friday
Psalm 35, Psalm 36, Psalm 37
June 21, Saturday
Psalm 38, Psalm 39, Psalm 40
June 22, Sunday
Psalm 5
June 23, Monday
Psalm 41, Psalm 42, Psalm 43
June 24, Tuesday
Psalm 44, Psalm 45, Psalm 46
June 25, Wednesday
Psalm 47, Psalm 48, Psalm 49
June 26, Thursday
Psalm 50, Psalm 51, Psalm 52
June 27, Friday
Psalm 53, Psalm 54, Psalm 55
June 28, Saturday
Psalm 56, Psalm 57, Psalm 58
June 29, Sunday
Psalm 16
June 30, Monday
Psalm 59, Psalm 60, Psalm 61
July 1, Tuesday
Psalm 62, Psalm 63, Psalm 64
July 2, Wednesday
Psalm 65, Psalm 68, Psalm 69
July 3, Thursday
Psalm 70, Psalm 72, Psalm 73
July 4, Friday
Psalm 74, Psalm 75, Psalm 76
July 5, Saturday
Psalm 77, Psalm 78, Psalm 79
July 6, Sunday
Psalm 103
July 7, Monday
Psalm 80, Psalm 81, Psalm 82
July 8, Tuesday
Psalm 83, Psalm 84, Psalm 85
July 9, Wednesday
Psalm 86, Psalm 87, Psalm 88
July 10, Thursday Psalm 89, Psalm 90, Psalm 91
July 11, Friday
Psalm 92, Psalm 94, Psalm 95
July 12, Saturday
Psalm 96, Psalm 97, Psalm 98
July 13, Sunday
Psalm 105
July 14, Monday
Psalm 99, Psalm 100, Psalm 101
July 15, Tuesday
Psalm 102, Psalm 104, Psalm 106
July 16, Wednesday
Psalm 107, Psalm 108, Psalm 109
July 17, Thursday
Psalm 110, Psalm 111, Psalm 112
July 18, Friday
Psalm 113, Psalm 114, Psalm 115
July 19, Saturday
Psalm 116, Psalm 117, Psalm 118
July 20, Sunday
Psalm 24, Psalm 93
July 21, Monday
Psalm 119:1–40
July 22, Tuesday
Psalm 119:41–80
July 23, Wednesday
Psalm 119:81–120
July 24, Thursday
Psalm 119:121–176
July 25, Friday
Psalm 131, Psalm 132, Psalm 133
July 26, Saturday
Psalm 134, Psalm 135, Psalm 136
July 27, Sunday
Psalm 66, Psalm 67
July 28, Monday
Psalm 137, Psalm 138, Psalm 139
July 29, Tuesday
Psalm 140, Psalm 141, Psalm 142
July 30, Wednesday
Psalm 143, Psalm 144
July 31, Thursday
Psalm 145, Psalm 146
August 1, Friday
Psalm 147, Psalm 148
August 2, Saturday
Psalm 149, Psalm 150
Access to the Psalms is provided by the link below.