Changing Me, Change the World: Prayers from the Psalms, Book I

by Lynnda Ell

How do you pray?

Do you think praying is either a fearful mystery or a dry duty? If you want to get past feelings of futility and change your world through prayer, then Changing Me, Change the World is the answer. This book connects God's Word and your prayers. It will strengthen your faith and instill confidence in you to pray more effectively, molding you into a prayer warrior in the process.

You will discover:
* a deeper, more satisfying prayer life as you meditate on these Psalms and prayers,
* passionate, engaging language that addresses problems you face in your life every day,
* prayers you can pray with confidence because they have a solid biblical foundation,
* a heightened awareness of meaningful issues outside of your daily life,
* a desire to return to Changing Me, Change the World as new situations arise.

Genres: Nonfiction

160 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 2009

About the author

Lynnda Ell writes about her walk with God and the adventure of her life as He leads her into unexpected places. Her career path has led her through the professions of direct sales, accounting, electrical engineering and, now, freelance writing. She and her 93 year-old Mother share a home in Texas. She has three married daughters with five (wonderful!) grandchildren.

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received a copy of this through Goodreads First Reads, and would like to thank author Lynnda Ell for autographing the book to me, and for the personal note she included.

This book contains the first 41 Psalms from the Bible, with each being followed by a contemporary prayer written by Ms. Ell. I did enjoy re-reading the Psalms, and Ms. Ell's prayers were interesting. My only reservation though was that many of the contemporary prayers did not match my own thoughts. The new prayers seem to be very political and conservative and I am more liberal. They also often condemn people and events, and I am more of a "judge not" and "love thy neighbor" type of person in prayer.

Such as here are a few sentences from the contemporary Psalm 2 prayer: "We know that our country is chief among the rebels. We chose leaders who do not know You. They take their places in government and pass laws that ignore You. They disregard the consequenses of their actions, and close their eyes to the effects these laws have upon Your people. Some of them purposely rebel against You. Others are indifferent to Your Ways. The evil they release causes all of us to suffer."

For me personally, this is just not the way I pray, or a prayer I would
say.

And here are a few sentences from the contemporary prayer for Psalm 3:
"I fear for my country, though. I fear beacause so many of its citizens "rise up and trouble me" with the easy acceptance of lustful living and easy agreement to murder innocent babies."

Again, this is not something I would ever pray.

I did enjoy the reading of the Psalms though, and reading the contemporary prayers, even the many I disagreed with or would never pray, did make me contemplate the Psalms more so, to interpret them in my own way.

[Yaisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lynnda Ell you are brilliant!

I recently received a copy of this book by the author herself. I must say, I am surprised at how easily she has translated the Psalms into prayers. It is a very easy read which for me would not usually be the case.

When the book first arrived I thought to myself that I might be in over my head. I am 21 years old and my whole life I have had an Atheist point of view. My morals still have always been parallel to most of those set forth in the bible, but I never could understand the bible itself much on my own with no interpreter around. I have been curious; however, to know more from the bible and understand it.

This author has created a layout perfect for beginners (as I would know). The book even contains pages for the readers to write their own interpreted prayers after reading the Psalms.

This book means a lot to me. It has given me a way to better understand the bible. The object of the book is to teach us how one can pray directly from the bible, but I have gotten so much more out of it. I can now begin to interpret the Psalms on my own and be able to relate to the words written. I highly recommend this book to people like me.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm always amazed at the unexpectedness of God's love, most of it undeserved. This is absolutely one of the best books I've read in a long time. With forty-one Psalms printed in full in the book, you're able to guide yourself to a better and more prayerful life. You can really study and learn the Psalm's and what their true meaning is. I know that I've learned that I knew nothing about prayer or being prayerful until I read Lynnda Ell's 'Changing Me, Change the World.' Each of the Psalm's speaks to you and you can easily see how each one can be your very own private prayer. Each Psalm has a purpose, a meaning that you can apply to yourself. After reading this, I feel I think about prayer more often. I'm not going to lie and say I've been an every single day prayer person because I'd only be fooling myself and lying to God. However, this book has changed MY life! Thank you Lynnda for writing it, thank you for teaching me how to pray and what prayer can do.

I would highly recommend this wonderful book to EVERYONE!!

[Birgit · Rating 3 out of 5]

While I might be an unlikely candidate for reading this book (I'm not Christian, but Agnostic) it certainly raised my curiosity. Having read plenty of books dealing with the Bible - both historical and critical works - I always found the Psalms to be the part of the OT that gives the most insight into the feelings and emotions of people at that time. And those aren't so far removed from what we all are feeling and experiencing today.
Lynnda Ell manages not only to transport the first part of the Psalms into the here and now, she does so with a beautiful language that does the original justice. These prayers are obviously aimed at people who believe in God, but they are much more than that, a conversation and reflection at the same time, with significance for everyone, believer or not, in a world of struggles and worries, but also joy and laughter.
Side note: For non-US readers this book might be a bit too much on the patriotic side.
In short: A beautiful translation of the Book of Psalms into the world of today, this is a book I will surly recommend to all my Christian friends!

[Chad · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Psalms of David were written roughly 3,000 years ago and Lynnda Ell has done a wonderful job in taking the first book of Psalms, the first 41 Psalms, and modernizing the words of David into prayers that make sense in today’s world. Although some of the prayers can be a little more personal in nature to Lynnda’s circumstances than the reader, the overall meanings are solid and can assist anyone in using a specific psalm for a personal prayer. I enjoyed how each psalms was broken out by verse on one page and on the opposite page a modern-day prayer that pertained to that psalm was printed. Well done!

I received this book for free through Goodreads first reads. Thank you to Lynnda Ell for making this possible. I really like this book and look forward to sharing this work with other members of my family.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you thought there was no more to say about prayer or Psalms, think again. Lynnda Ell has created an inspiring book designed as a tool for learning to pray using Psalms as her model. Using each of the first 41 Psalms, Ell has drafted a contemporary first-person prayer that can be used as is or customized for private reflection. For the student in all of us, there is a section dedicated to writing our own prayers. Each prayer has a title that introduces the reader to the type of prayer it is in everyday language. I found this book inspiring and one that I will go to again and again.

For you worship planners out there, the prayers can be easily modified for small group devotionals or for broader congregational use. I highly applaud this work.

[Debra Slonek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads, and what a wonderful prize it has been. In this book, the author takes a fresh look at the first 41 Psalms and she has interpreted them into helpful, useful and insiteful prayers which are very faith-building during current times. This book would be a wonderful tool for personal devotions or even a group Bible study. I have shared parts of this book with many others, who were also very impressed and blessed. Even three teenaged boys have read portions of this book and they thought it was "awesome". Many thanks and blessings to the author. I would recommend this book to anyone from teenage years up to and including senior citizens. Looking forward to a book 2 from this author.

[Sapphire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recieved a copy from the author a week back.For the first time my mom was very happy with the book I had recieved.I am a person who believes in god and do pray everyday.But my mom never saw me with a bible so she takes that me not a person who is a believer of god.

This book is amazing in its own way is all I can say.It contains simple prayers written in simple words but if you actually read it carefully you will see the meaning it contains.All prayers are connected to us in one way or the other.You are bound to connect to this book.

Reading this book will provide you with the same sereneness you feel when you listen to the piano in an empty room.

I am short of words here so all I can say is that this book is an amazing one so don't miss it :D

[K.M. Weiland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lynnda Ell pays a lovely homage to the timeless beauty and power of the Psalms in this first volume of prayers inspired by the book of Psalms. Ell covers the first 41 Psalms, accompanying each one with a personal prayer inspired by the words of the biblical psalmist. Her offerings are deeply heartfelt, often thought-provoking, and always encouraging. This book is a challenge to each of us to make the Psalms more than just reading material but a personal conversation with God. A beautiful book, marred only by a confusing layout that interrupted text flow to keep the Psalms always on the left-hand page and Ell’s commentary on the right.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Though “Changinge Me, Change the World” is not a large book, (only147 pages) it is well written and read slowly, provides both solace and insight.

Lynnda Ell has provided psalms from the Bible, and on the opposing page has written her interpretation of those psalms. Throughout the book, Ell has left places for one to write in their own understanding of the psalm.

I enjoyed reading and contemplating “Changing Me, Change the World”. By reading one every day or two, I was able to absorb and get insight from Lynnda Ell’s lovely book.

I received this book free for review. I am a member of Goodreads, Librarything, Book Divas and the Penguin Book Club.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A must have for every Christian. Lynnda has been incredibly gifted with the knowledge of guiding others to a more fulfilling prayer life. She shows you also can use God's inspired words to create your own prayers. Your eyes will be opened to see how the psalms are just as prevalent to today's daily life. Whether you are in complete agreement or not with the words of her prayers they are still excellent examples for your own. Perhaps for the first time, read the psalms with real purpose and let them take meaning in your life and communication with God.

[Bill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynnda Ell's book enables the reader to pray based on Psalms 1 - 41. A heartfelt, easy-to-understand prayer accompanies each Psalm. This book also includes special periodic pages for writing your own prayers based on the Psalms.

This book can be used as a supplement for your daily devotions or when the need arises, such as prayers of praise, repentance, thanksgiving, and prayers for the sick.

I would encourage Lynnda Ell to continue this important devotional series for the Psalms and also to consider writing a volume for Proverbs.

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am thrilled that I have won this magnificent book. It couldn't have come at a better time, especially since I lost my husband to pancreatic cancer. This book is well written, and I love the way the author has combined the Psalms with Prayers. She even has a blank page so the reader can add their own personal blessings and prayers. I recommend this book to family, friends, and million of readers out there.

Thank you so much Mrs. Lynnda Ell, for writing such a wonderful
book I will treasure it.
Fondly,
Maria Fagan

[Lynnda Ell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just got my first fan mail. This is a quote from Dan: "...I have to say that when I learned of your book's publication a few weeks ago (it was the sheer providence of God that it came to my attention) and then ordered it, when I got my copy last week I was so very ... very blessed! It is exactly what I've been looking for to help others (and myself!) grow in this practice that I believe is so very important to the maturing process in our (my) prayer life."

NOW, I'm excited!

[Dáithí's · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynnda is a beautiful soul who shares a glimpse of her heart with this well prepared and approachable book to the Psalms. This book can be easily used as a daily / weekly devotional, a source for immediate inspiration, a pastoral help, or anything else as one is lead by the Spirit.

I will be using this book as a part of my ministry that reaches mature Christians, 'Baby Christians", "Seekers", and the lost. It is that well written, that all who come to "the well" may be served.

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of Changing Me, Changing the World through Goodreads' First Reads giveaway.

This book is a wonderful addition to my daily devotions. I like it so well that I have obtained copies for the members of my prayer group, and copies for my daughters as well.

Although I have marked this book as "read", it is a book that I continue to read and refer to. What a valuable resource!

[Lori · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an awesome gift, to win this book (from Goodreads) at a time of family crisis for me. I truly feel that God was calling me; even though I was already in what I thought was a good relationship with Him, there is always room for improvement!

This book is laid out so that each of the forty-one Psalms can be studied and meditated upon, and related to current times; the author provides room for personal notes, as well. This book would be wonderful for Bible study.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a book that is very special to me. I received it from the author after entering a "first reads" contest here on Goodreads. It arrived in my mailbox at such a stressful time in my life. The prayers are so encouraging in this book. The Psalms are beautiful and always lift the spirits and the author's love for the Psalms comes shining through. I was blessed by reading this book!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful book and has been a blessing in my life. I've completed reading the book but I can't say I'll ever be done with it. I know I will go back to this book often for a spiritual lift. I can't say how much this book has effected me and helped me.

[Rachel Murphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a really excellent book! It is so inspirational and exactly what I needed. I reflect on the words written in this book almost daily. It is a must read for anyone seeking encouragement in this world we live in today.

Thank you to Author Lynnda Ell and Goodreads!

-Rachel

[Melody · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It is awesome to see scriptures put into prayers that are applicable to our everyday lives!! Thank you Lynnda!! I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in growing their personal relationship with God!

[Gretchen Schott · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just received this book from Lynnda Ell. I am enjoying the peace it brings me and allows me to focus much more important things. I can't believe how simple prayer came to me just sitting down to reflect with this book. I am enjoying it and so thankful Lynnda sent me a copy personally.

[Yolanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recieved this book as a goodreads firstread. Lynnda Ell did a nice job with the first forty-one psalms. The book has a peaceful tone, while challenging your focus on day to day prayers. It is a book I will keep at the bedside bookshelf next to my journal.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been reading this devotional off and on for a few months and I have been enjoying it. I love the way the author has designed the reading from the bible on one side of the page and the author's translation on the other side of the page. It really is an interesting way to read the Psalms.

[Lorna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good, thought provoking book that helps bring the Psalms to a more personal level. The layout is a bit confusing at first, in an effort always to keep the Psalm on one side of the page, and the prayer on the other side, but that's a minor complaint.

[Scottie]

Got this book recently and am going through it one day at a time. It certainly does make you think about prayer and what to pray about. I am enjoying it so far.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice inspirational set of prayers based on the Psalms. I won this on Goodreads and would recommend it.

[Kara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful prayers and devotionals; they really keep you motivated when you're trying to find something to say and the words you can't find.

[Sheri-lee · Rating 2 out of 5]

Meh.

[Lauren Monsey Nagel · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have enjoyed this book again and again over the past 4 years that I have owned it. It's one of those books that you can read it again and get something else from it that didn't occur to you before. We really have not changed much over the past 2000 or so years. Our hearts and minds still long for answers and understanding of how God works in our lives. We don't really know how to pray in a way so that we can feel God, connect with God, and have a real relationship with Him. This book has given me insights in to those areas that were gray for me. I feel as if I have far more understanding of what the Psalmist may have been feeling as he turned to God for answers to the things that were troubling to him. We can cry out to God too. We can share our burdens and ask questions and be thankful for God is good. Changing Me, Change The World: Prayers From The Psalms, Book I