(Following is a personalized version of Psalm 103:1-5. Scripture quotes are in bold type, personal worship-thoughts* are in regular type. Perhaps you’ll pray along?)
1 Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.
2 Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits–
Oh, Lord, my heart overflows with love and gratitude for all you are to me and all you do for me. If I recorded these benefits, the volumes produced would surely fill a library.
But just as parents and grandparents are pleased when children say, “thank you,” I want to “praise your holy Name,” to extol you for the sum of all your attributes. In my life you have expressed your:
- Power, by supplying my needs–sometimes in miraculous ways
- Love and Goodness, with blessings beyond measure
- Wisdom, as you’ve guided me day by day in the ways that are best for me
- Patience, when I’ve been slow to learn and reluctant to obey
- Mercy, by forgiving me of my sins, especially when I knew better
- Faithfulness, with your constant presence and attention
May I always be mindful of your benefits, and vocal about them to others.
3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
May I never take for granted the horrific price you paid at Calvary with the life of your Son. May I never tire of praising you for making me a new creation, one who can be in relationship with you, the all-powerful God of the universe.
I praise you for being the Healer of all diseases, whether of body, soul, or spirit. You heal broken hearts, broken lives, broken relationships, broken minds—either instantaneously, over time, or when we’re transported to heaven.
4 who redeems your life from the pit and crowns you with love and compassion
I praise you that not only have you saved me from the pit of hell, but from the depths of depression, discouragement, and disappointment. You are “a redeeming God who is able to bring freshness to places that seem rotten and decayed” (Carole Ladd)—places like hurt, unfair circumstances, and unfulfilled dreams.
I praise you for encircling me with your love and compassion, symbolized by a gleaming crown, and reminding me: those who know Jesus are royalty (1 Peter 2:9)! I bow in humble wonder at the incredible privilege you bestow, to be a daughter of the King of kings.
5 who satisfies your desires with good things so that your youth is renewed like the eagle’s.
I praise You, O God, for knowing exactly which good things to grant me—those things that will produce a good outcome. (I know that catering to my every pleasure would ultimately be to my detriment.)
I praise you that even into old age you will strengthen my spirit so I can remain vibrant, optimistic, and full of hope. On the wings of your wisdom I’ll be able to soar (Proverbs 24:5).
Finally, may your praise always be on my lips; may my soul always boast in you, because you are a good and gracious God—always and forever (Psalm 34:1, 145:7-8)!
*Prior to composing this worship-prayer, I researched some of the terminology in these verses, to expand my understanding of the passage. Sources included: Be Exultant by Warren Wiersbe; www.bible.org; Jesus Calling by Sarah Young; Thrive, Don’t Simply Survive by Carole Ladd; and The Daily Study Bible Series, Psalms, by George A. F. Knight.
(Photo credits: www.suggestkeyword.com; http://www.studentdevos.com; http://www.pinterest.com; http://www.suggestkeyword.com.)
From the Inside Out 
Psalm 103 is one of my favorites, particularly vv. 8-11 “He does not treat us as our sins deserve, for his compassions are higher than the sky.” (my paraphrase.) Hallelujah!
AMEN! Psalm 103 is a gold mine of inspiration and encouragement. It’s one psalm that includes no requests of God–only worship and praise. Much to ponder here, more to personalize in a future post, perhaps. Thank you for stopping by, Jody, and taking time to comment.
I am most grateful that he died for me…saving me from the ‘pit of hell’. The price was dear. When I am feeling at my lowest I try to redirect my thoughts and focus on the great gift of Salvation; and that the problems of this world are only temporary. I have an eternity of bliss to look forward to! Praise the Lord, my Great Redeemer!
Beautifully said, Cheri, and AMEN! Psalm 103 makes our hearts swell with adoration, doesn’t it?
what a neat spiritual practice this is. I have often thought of writing psalms like this. Thanks for the reminder and the wonderful inspiration.
Thank you Jean!