cover image Secret of Psalms

Secret of Psalms

Chestina Mitchell Archibald. Berkley Publishing Group, $13 (240pp) ISBN 978-0-425-17043-4

For centuries, spiritual seekers have used the Psalms (songs of joy, praise and meditation on life's trials) as a way of soliciting divine guidance. Archibald, a minister, educator and author of Say Amen: The African-American Family's Book of Prayers, here explores the age-old tradition in a fresh way by highlighting selections from the Psalms that speak directly to personal concerns such as health, happiness, wealth, spiritual growth, stress, suffering, relationships and emotional and spiritual healing. The author emphasizes a total trust in God as the means to conquering fear and achieving happiness (""God will keep you in perfect peace if you remember to keep your mind on God,"" she contends, citing relevant passages from the Psalms). Archibald has compiled a serviceable devotional book whose thematic organization will save the reader valuable time in locating specific verses. This is a pleasantly written tool for reflection on everyday problems and concerns. (Sept.)