How can I find shalom? How can I deal with suffering and fear? How do I connect with God? Is there hope?

The beloved book of Psalms tells of an effective way of living and praying from those who, though they did not have modern technology, had pen and paper. Whether royalty or common folk, the ones who penned the psalms knew the key to a healthy prayer life—being honest with God. Their prayers exuded various emotions—from bitterness, depression, and dismay to praise, worship, and joy. Paradoxically, being free to pour their hearts out to God without reserve often gave way to thanksgiving, hope, and praise, even if that was not their original intent.

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