Transitions: It’s Psalm Season

Sunday, October 18, 2026

The Rev. Marla Flewellen

LGBTQIA+ Person of Faith

Quote

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

Psalm 23:1-4

Devotion

Life is full of transitions, and October often marks a season of change. On October 18, 10 years ago, I was in a season of transition as I was grieving the death of my mother, who had died two days prior. Although transitions can bring joy, they often come with frustration, sadness, and uncertainty. I turn to the Psalms as a vital biblical resource that offers comfort and guidance during these times.

As Christians and readers of God’s holy word, we can find comfort, support, and reassurance in the Psalms. Often, we have a favorite Psalm or a verse to cling to as a guiding post during life's difficult transitions, helping us find direction and hope. 

When we face moments of grief or suffering, we can turn to Psalm 23:1-4 for comfort and reassurance. “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures. He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul. He leads me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”

When we are in the season of loneliness, Psalm 10:1 “Why, O Lord, do you stand far off? Why do you hide yourself in times of trouble?”

In moments of confusion during transitions, Psalm 25:4 can serve as a prayer for guidance and clarity. “Show me your ways, O Lord, teach me your paths: guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.”

When we are in seasons of fear, we may rely on Psalm 27:1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” And when to give God our Thanks and Praise Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.”

When I miss my mother and want to feel close to her, I may recite the first verse of Mom’s favorite Psalm 42: “As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God.”

Psalms can serve as a guidepost and support during our life transitions. In all seasons of life, we can always turn to a psalm.

Reflection

1.    What are your life transitions in this season?

2.    What is your favorite Psalm?

3.    Who do you think of when you hear or read a Psalm?

4.    In what ways have the Psalms been your guiding post and support?

Action

Pick a Psalm, maybe your favorite Psalm or one that’s special to you. Read it and take some time to reflect on what it brings up for you now.