Praying the Psalms - While classified as poetry, The book of Psalms is really a book of songs (see the title/description for Psalms 120 - 134; the Greek word for Psalm means "to pluck the string of an instrument") and prayers (Psalm 72:20; Acts 2:42 note Greek "the prayers"; also see Acts 4:23-31 cp. Psalm 2). We can learn so much doctrinally from the Psalms, but we will never get all of the benefit that God intended until we learn to use the Psalms for worship (Colossians 3:16). The Psalms give you plenty of subjects to use as matters of prayer. As we see David and others pour out their heart, we can identify with them and follow their example. As a matter of fact, we can often literally pray the very words of the Psalms for ourselves. An example would be Psalm 119:33-40. If we would do this, it would be supplications (asking God for things for ourselves). With some modifications, it could be changed into an intercession (asking on the behalf of others). When we are thinking of missionaries or other ministers and the people to whom they are ministering, in most cases, we can just change "me, I, my" to "them, they, their." Some other Psalms that we can pray back to God: Psalm 23; 38; 42 - 43; 51; 54 - 56; 59; 71; 119; 139 -143. James 5:13 tells us that if we are "afflicted / suffering" we should pray (not get depressed and angry). If you are not feeling personally afflicted you can apply Hebrews 13:3 and pray for the afflictions of others. If you are "merry / cheerful" convert that energy into worship by singing Psalms. The book of Psalms is perfect for all situations!

Four ways to pray Psalm 122:6 - We are instructed to "pray for the peace of Jerusalem." Is this just some outdated prayer request that belongs to some Old Testament Jews? There are four ways that a Christian can apply this passage to their prayer life:

• Literally - For the Jews
  It was written by and for the O.T. Jews. We can pray for Jews (and Israel) today. See Romans 9:1-5; 10:1; 11:1-2a.
• Spiritually - For the Christians
  Today, God's spiritual house is the N.T. church (I Timothy 3:15). We can pray for the unity of the believer and for their faithful service in the Kingdom of Christ (Psalm 133 cp. Ephesians 4:1-16).
• Geo-Politically - For the World
  If there is no peace in Jerusalem, there will be no peace in the world. I Timothy 2:1-2 applies to all nations.
• Prophetically - For the Return of Christ
  There will be no real and lasting peace until Christ physically returns to Jerusalem and establishes His kingdom on earth. "Even so, come, Lord Jesus!" (Revelation 22:20)

Worshippers make the best evangelists - Let's take a look at Psalm 145:1-12,21. Those, whose hearts overflow with love, admiration and thankfulness to the Lord, will have a natural inclination to share their faith and support those who preach the Word. They will have a holy boldness, filled with love and grace. They do not have to be coerced to awkwardly shove some Bible verses down somebody's throat, or say prayers for the lost. They will "praise thy works" to the next generation and lovingly intercede for them. By the way, Psalm 145:8-9,17-20 makes some good Gospel preaching.