linger in the Psalms - Something Splendid

Share the love.

Each year, I choose a word to help shape my focus and faith. Last year’s word was CULTIVATE, a reminder to be intentional about nurturing what matters most. This year, my heart keeps returning to the word LINGER. I don’t want to rush through the moments that deserve my attention. I want to pause in places of beauty and depth, to stay a little longer in gratitude, prayer, and peace.

When I think about what it means to linger with God, my mind turns to the Psalms. These songs and prayers invite us to slow down. To rest, to trust, and to dwell in God’s presence without hurry.

Here are a few psalms that remind me to linger:

Linger in God’s care — Psalm 23.

The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing (Psalm 23:1).

This familiar psalm paints a picture of rest and assurance. God leads us beside still waters and restores our souls. When life feels busy or uncertain, Psalm 23 invites us to breathe deeply and remember that God provides what we truly need. I’ve shared some reflections on Psalm 23 in an earlier blog post. Check it out for a deeper look at the chapter.

Linger in God’s presence — Psalm 27.

I have asked one thing from the Lord–it’s all I seek: to live in the Lord’s house all the days of my life, seeing the Lord’s beauty and constantly adoring God’s temple (Psalm 27:4).

Psalm 27 is a beautiful reminder that lingering in God’s presence brings light and courage. It’s an invitation to stop striving and simply be with the one who loves us. I’ve shared before how much I struggle with this, and I don’t think I’m alone. It’s too easy to get caught up in what needs to be done. To rush through one thing to get to the next. This psalm encapsulates what I need to keep everything in perspective.

Linger in God’s timing — Psalm 37 and Psalm 62.

Be still before the Lord and wait patiently (Psalm 37:7a).
For God alone my soul waits in silence; my salvation comes from God (Psalm 62:1).

These psalms remind us that waiting is not wasted time. When we linger in God’s timing, we learn to trust that God is at work even when we cannot see it. Silence becomes sacred space where faith takes root. Think about the time we spend waiting, whether it be waiting on our turn for an appointment, or waiting for the right time for a major undertaking. How can we make that time spent waiting more productive? Surely meditating on psalms like these can help us remember what matters most to us.

Too often, I rush ahead with an idea because I want to see it come to fruition now. Let’s slow down. Take our time. Enjoy the process. No need to rush ahead to the end result. There is beauty in the journey. I don’t want to miss it.

Linger in God’s shelter — Psalm 46 and Psalm 91.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46:1).
Those who dwell in the shelter of the most high will rest in the shadow of the almighty (Psalm 91:1).

The world around us can feel unsteady, but these psalms promise a security in God’s care. To linger in God’s shelter is to remember that we are not alone, no matter what storms arise. What a confidence boost! It’s so easy to fall into the trap of handling things ourselves. (Control might just be my middle name.) I often need a reminder to focus on God’s strength rather than my own. I’m a slow learner, but spending some time sitting with these verses refreshes my mindset.

Linger in God’s love — Psalm 131 and Psalm 139.

I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with its mother (Psalm 131:2).
You have searched me, O God, and known me (Psalm 139:1).

These psalms remind us that we are deeply known and lovingly held. We can rest in that truth. No pretending, no performing, just peace. As well as I know myself and my failings, God knows me even better. How crazy is it that God loves me anyway? I make the same mistakes over and over. And over. These verses help me put the past behind me and take the next right step.

Flowers and greenery with a book entitled "PSALMS" in the background, "word-of-the-year series" and "Linger in the Psalms. Take time to rest in God's care. Practical reflections for cultivating stillness, trust, and hope in the year ahead." in the text overlay

As I carry my word LINGER into the year ahead, I want to create more space for stillness, reflection, and wonder. Maybe you’re longing for that too.

So let’s linger. In scripture, in prayer, in quiet moments of gratitude. Let’s linger in love and trust, unhurried and open to what God is doing within us. May this be a year of lingering. Of pausing to notice, to rest, and to dwell in the peace of God.

Would you like to linger in the Psalms too?

Maybe choose one psalm this week and linger with it. Read it slowly, let a phrase stay with you, and notice what God stirs in your heart. Please share about your experience in the comments below.

If you’re choosing a word of the year too, I’d love to know what it is and why it speaks to you. Let’s encourage one another as we begin a new year with intention and grace.

Other posts you may like:

Fondly,

Crysti