Psalms - Growing Christians Ministries

Growing Christians Ministries

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Psalms

Study Guide for

Lesson 1

The Contrasting Description of the Godly and Wicked Person & God’s Declaration that the Kingdom of our Lord will be Established

Psalms 1 & 2 background notes

1. 2. 3. doctrinal points

1. The secret of true happiness is bridle and Bible. 2. Nothing can prevent or thwart Christ‟s kingdom on this earth. practical application

1. Let the Lord know your way! 2. Have you experienced the best R&R available? questions 1. How many of the Psalms were written by David?

2. What sort of information is often included in the title of a psalm?

3. What does the word “blessed” mean? 4. How do we know that Psalm 2 is written by David? 5. What kind of psalm is Psalm 2? 6. What do we mean when we speak of Christ‟s kingdom?

answers 1. David wrote about half of the book of Psalms. If he wrote some of the anonymous psalms without titles, then he can be credited with more than half of the book. 2. The author, the occasion, the type of psalm, etc. 3. It means “happy.” 4. This psalm is quoted in Acts 4:25, and David is credited as the author. 5. Psalm 2 is a Royal Psalm. Since it is ultimately fulfilled in the king of God‟s choosing, the Lord Jesus Christ, it is also a Messianic Psalm. 6. We do not mean the Christian Church now! We mean the literal kingdom of Christ on this earth in the future. discuss\ consider

1. The wicked say if you want to be truly happy you need to break free from all restraints. Yet the Bible teaches us that blessing and happiness comes through self control. Read Psalm 1. How do you see these truths lived out in society today? 2. Discuss Christ‟s future earthly kingdom. When will this kingdom take place? Where will the kingdom be based? How will the nations oppose this kingdom? But nothing can prevent or thwart Christ‟s kingdom on this earth. challenge Rest and Relaxation is good. But the best R&R is to Rejoice and take Refuge in the Lord! See Psalm 2:11-12. memorize “Blessed is the man Who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, Nor stands in the path of sinners, Nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the LORD, And in His law he meditates day and night.” Psalm 1:1-2 “You are My Son, today I have begotten You.” Psalm 2:7

Lesson 2

David Calls on God for Help from Distress Psalms 3 & 4

background notes


1. Believers can sleep in peace because the Lord is their shield. 2. Believers can sleep in peace because the Lord is their security. practical application

1. Let the Lord take revenge! 2. Give me God‟s gladness over grain! questions 1. When was Psalm 3 written?

2. What does the word “Selah” means?

3. Explain the taunt in Psalm 3:2. 4. What New Testament passage echoes the message of Psalm 3:7-8? 5. What kind of psalms are Psalms 3 and 4? 6. Explain Psalm 4:2-5 if the opposition was not some pagan outside nation, but opposition from within David‟s kingdom.

answers 1. This was written when David fled from his son Absalom, when Absalom usurped the throne. See 2 Samuel 15-18. 2. “Selah” is a technical term used 71 times in the Psalms. It probably means to pause and reflect on what‟s been written and may be an indication of an interlude when the psalm was sung or put the music. 3. People were saying that God was not on David‟s side any longer, otherwise this would not have been happening to him. 4. Romans 12:19 says that we should never take our own revenge, because vengeance belongs to the Lord. He will repay the opposition and bring blessing to us. 5. They are both psalms of individual lament where David is calling on the Lord for help from distress. 6. David is exhorting this internal opposition to change their ways and change their minds about him. They need to realize that he, and not Absalom, is God‟s anointed king. He exhorts them to be angry for righteous causes and to stop sinning. He encourages them to be still and think through their actions, and then turn back to the Lord. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the emotions David may have felt as his son attempted to usurp the throne. Yet David says he was able to sleep in peace. Discuss a time in your life when your emotions could have overtaken you, but the Lord gave you peace. 2. Even those who were with David and in support of him were complaining and saying discouraging things (see Psalm 4:6). Do you have any friends like this? They always picture the worst scenario! Discuss the balance between encouraging them to look to the Lord for security and distancing yourself from their discouragement in your time of distress. challenge David declared that the gladness and joy he experienced from the Lord was greater than the gladness one experiences after a great harvest. If you had the choice, would you choose God‟s gladness in your heart over the thrill of becoming wealthy? memorize “But You, O LORD, are a shield for me, my glory and the One who lifts up my head.” Psalm 3:3 “I will both lie down in peace, and sleep; for You alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety.” Psalm 4:8

Lesson 3

David Rejoices in God’s Righteousness and Protection In the Midst of Enemy Opposition &

David Acknowledges God’s Righteous Discipline Psalms 5 & 6

background notes


1. Godly believers pray in line with the Word of God. 2. Godly believers acknowledge the discipline of God. practical application

1. Pray every morning! 2. Let the Lord turn the tables! questions 1. How does internal opposition to the work of the Lord usually occur?

2. How did David respond to the internal opposition he faced?

3. At what time of day should you pray? 4. What kind of psalms are Psalms 5 and 6? 5. In his prayer of confession, on what does David base his hope of restoration (Psalm 6:4-5)?

answers 1. It is usually through unreliable words or subtle flattery to manipulate. 2. He brought his problems before the Lord every morning and then waited for God‟s answer. 3. You should pray all throughout the day. 1 Thessalonians 5:17 says to “Pray without ceasing.” The morning is an especially good time to bring the day‟s problems and responsibilities before the Lord and ask for His help. 4. They are both psalms of individual lament, and both were put to music. Psalm 6 can also be considered a penitential psalm, since David recognizes that his sickness or injury was allowed by the Lord to be used as discipline in his life as king. 5. David is confident that he will be restored based on God‟s mercy and lovingkindness. Also, if David had died, he would not be able to praise the Lord from the grave. discuss\ consider

1. Read through Psalm 5 and discuss how David‟s prayer was not simply based on what he wanted, but it was in the line with the Word of God. How can you ensure that your prayers are in line with God‟s Word? 2. Not every illness or injury is a form of God‟s discipline! But the Lord can use illness and injury as discipline. Discuss the important step of recognizing when you are under discipline. In what ways do you repent and seek restoration? challenge What better way to start your day than with prayer? Why not pray in the morning? memorize “My voice You shall hear in the morning, O LORD; in the morning I will direct it to You, and I will look up.” Psalm 5:1 “Depart from me, all you workers of iniquity; for the LORD has heard the voice of my weeping. The LORD has heard my supplication; the LORD will receive my prayer.” Psalm 6:8-9

Lesson 4

David Desires God’s Righteousness Over All Psalm 7

background notes


1. Godly believers desire righteousness, even if it brings hurt to themselves. 2. Godly believers desire righteousness, which explains their cry for the hurt of others. practical application

Don‟t fall into your own pit! questions 1. What do we learn from the title of Psalm 7?

2. What was the consequence of this slander against David?

3. Is David willing to be wrong? 4. Discuss the two truths implied when you are willing to be wrong. 5. What does “imprecate” mean?

answers 1.

The author – David

The type of psalm – a “Shiggaion,” a Hebrew word which probably means a song of lament

The occasion – a response to the slander of Cush, a Benjamite

2. These lies fueled King Saul‟s paranoia that David was trying to usurp the throne. As a result, Saul pursued David in the wilderness and sought to kill him. 3. Yes, David is willing to be caught and killed if he is in the wrong (verses 3-5)! 4. 1) You‟ve examined your actions and attitudes, and you are convinced before God that you are in the right. 2) You desire God‟s righteous standard to be upheld at all costs – even at the cost of your own reputation and honor if you are guilty in any way. 5. Imprecate means to curse. discuss\ consider

1. Do you desire God‟s righteous standards to be upheld at all costs? Think of some examples of what this would look like in real life. 2. Discuss imprecatory psalms, which call down God‟s judgment on the unrighteous. When is it appropriate to pray this type of prayer? When would it not be appropriate? challenge God allows the wicked to catch themselves in their own traps. Are you scheming against a fellow believer or wishing them misfortune? Don‟t fall into your own pit! memorize “The LORD shall judge the peoples; Judge me, O LORD, according to my righteousness, And according to my integrity within me. Oh, let the wickedness of the wicked come to an end, but establish the just; for the righteous God tests the hearts and minds.” Psalms 7:8-9

Lesson 5

A Hymn of Praise to God for His Wonderful Works of Creation and

His Wonderful Plans for Mankind Psalm 8

background notes


1. The Lord is majestic in His works of Creation. 2. The Lord is marvelous in His plans for mankind. practical application

Remember the big businessman and his baby illustration! questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 8?

2. Which New Testament passages quote Psalm 8?

3. What does it mean that man was made a little lower than the angels? 4. What is the answer to David‟s question in verse 4? 5. When will we see the fulfillment of verse 6?

answers 1. Psalm 8 is a wonderful Hymn of Praise. It is also a Messianic Psalm, quoted three times in the New Testament in reference to Christ. 2. Matthew 21:16, 1 Corinthians 15:27, and Hebrews 2:6-8 3. Man was created in the image of God, but right now man is subjected to limitations that angels are not. 4. From the divine perspective, mankind is very significant and important. We have been created in the image of God and crowned with glory and honor. Mankind has been given dominion over the other works of God‟s creation. 5. When the Perfect Man, Jesus Christ, returns to the earth in power and glory, He will show forth all that God intended for man on this earth. All believers will share in that glorious reign of Christ where all things will be in subjection to Him. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss how Creation is a testimony of our powerful and awesome Creator. What causes people to deny the overwhelming amount of intricate design in the universe? 2. Discuss mankind‟s dominion over God‟s creation. What are the implications of this responsibility? challenge Remember the big businessman and his baby illustration! memorize “O LORD, our Lord, How excellent is Your name in all the earth!” Psalms 8:1,9 “When I consider Your heavens, the work of Your fingers, the moon and the stars, which You have ordained, What is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?” Psalms 8:3-4

Lesson 6

The Establishment of the Lord’s Righteous Throne Forever & The Elimination of All Unrighteousness Forever



1. The righteous throne of God will be established forever. 2. The unrighteous triumphs of men will be eliminated forever. practical application

Take heart, the days of the terrorists are numbered. questions 1. What is the Septuagint?

2. What type of psalm are Psalms 9 and 10?

3. List several reasons Psalms 9 and 10 naturally go together.

4. What are the marvelous works for which David praises God? 5. What is a “theodicy”?

answers 1. It is the Greek translation of the Old Testament. 2. They are alphabetic acrostic psalms. Together they contain two verses for each of the letters of the Hebrew alphabet (except a few letters that are skipped in the middle). 3.

They are combined in the Septuagint.

Together they form an alphabetic acrostic.

Psalm 10 does not have its own title, because it naturally ties to Psalm 9.

4. They are God‟s marvelous works of destroying the wicked, conquering the enemy, and setting up His righteous throne. 5. A theodicy is a vindication of God in the face of the existence of evil. That is what David is looking for in Psalm 10. He wants to know “why” many things are as they are. discuss\ consider

1. Read through Psalm 9 and identify where David praises God for past, present, and future deliverance. 2. Do you ever want to ask God “why” as David does in Psalm 10? It is not wrong to ask these questions. Find the answer that David comes to beginning in verse 12. challenge Ultimately only the return of the Lord will put an end to all terrorism. Be encouraged that His return is getting closer. The days of the terrorists are numbered. memorize “And those who know Your name will put their trust in You; For You, LORD, have not forsaken those who seek You.” Psalms 9:10 “But You have seen, for You observe trouble and grief, To repay it by Your hand. The helpless commits himself to You; You are the helper of the fatherless.” Psalms 10:14

Lesson 7

David Turns to the Lord as His Refuge & David Contrasts the Empty Words of the Wicked

with the Pure Words of the Lord Psalms 11 & 12

background notes


1. When the temptation to run arises, the faithful turn to the sovereign Lord. 2. When the words of this world fail, the faithful turn to the enduring Word. practical applications

1. Remember, the Lord reigns and rains. 2. Think of the Bible as pure silver! questions 1. What was the occasion when Psalm 11 was being written?

2. Discuss Psalm 11:3. How is this verse commonly used? What is its interpretation in context?

3. What verse in Psalm 11 is the basis for David‟s hopeful perspective? 4. How does the story of Elijah relate to Psalm 12? 5. Review the three characteristics of worldly words.

answers 1. This was probably some time when King Saul attempted to kill David, and David‟s friends urged him to flee for his life. 2. Some people use this verse to say that when the moral fabric of society is gone the righteous might as well give up, because there‟s nothing anyone can do to save or remedy the situation. In context, the point is not that the situation is hopeless. This is actually part of the wrong counsel of David‟s faint-hearted friends. 3. Verse 4: The Lord is still on His throne and in His holy temple. He sees and knows all. In fact, everything is under His close scrutiny. 4. Elijah, like David, felt like he was the only faithful one left in Israel. The Lord had to rebuke Elijah and tell him that there were 7,000 other believers that had not bowed their knees to Baal (1 Kings 19). 5. The words of this world are characterized by falsehood, flattery, and freedom (from restraint). discuss\ consider

1. In Psalm 11, David comes to a different conclusion than his friends who were prophesying doom. When the foundations of society are crumbling, David turns to the Lord! Think of a situation you have encountered that may have seemed hopeless, until you viewed it from the Lord‟s perspective. 2. Discuss how the media is often an example of worldly words characterized by falsehood, flattery, and freedom from restraint. How can the pure words of the Lord build us up in these times? challenge The Bible is free from any impurity. No lies. No flattery. No deceit. No error. Praise God for His Word to us! memorize “The LORD is in His holy temple, The LORD's throne is in heaven.” Psalms 11:4 “The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.” Psalms 12:6

Lesson 8

David Trusts in the Lord to Answer His Questions & David Describes the Fool, who says There is No God

Psalm 13 & 14 background notes


1. “How long, O Lord?” is a biblical prayer. 2. People are not basically good. practical applications

1. Get rid of your doubts by counting your blessings. 2. Do you yearn for righteousness or riches? questions 1. What prompted David to ask the Lord “How long?”

2. What was David‟s attitude when he asked the Lord “How long?”

3. How did David get rid of his doubts in Psalm 13? 4. What is a fool in Scripture? 5. What New Testament passage quotes Psalm 14? 6. When will David‟s desire be realized (Psalm 13:7)?

answers 1. David wrote this psalm when he was facing a prolonged period of oppression and discouragement, probably during his long wilderness sojourn to escape the pursuit and anger of King Saul. 2. He was not demanding an answer from God with a rebellious heart. Rather, he was concerned that he wouldn‟t hear from God before he died, and that his unrighteous adversaries would be boasting that they had won, which would not bring glory to God. 3. By counting his blessings 4. A fool is a person who is morally insensitive and lives like there is no God. 5. Romans 3:10-12 is a quotation from Psalm 14:1-3. 6. David‟s desire for righteousness will be realized when the Lord returns and establishes His righteous kingdom here on this earth. The restored Israel will be returned to the land and the Lord will reign with righteousness. discuss\ consider

1. Have you ever wanted to ask the Lord “How long?” Discuss how you can ask this question with a right or wrong attitude. 2. How would you respond to the claim that people are basically good? Refer to Psalm 14:1-3 and Romans 3:10-12. challenge Start counting your blessings! Think of the worst situation from which God has preserved and protected you. Do you ever thank the Lord for saving you from what could have been? memorize “How long, O LORD? Will You forget me forever? How long will You hide Your face from me?” Psalms 13:1 “The fool has said in his heart, „There is no God.‟” Psalms 14:1

Lesson 9

The Moral Qualities that Should Characterize Those who are Guests of God

Psalm 15 background notes


1. The guests of God will dwell in the Lord‟s earthly kingdom. 2. The guests of God exhibit the highest moral qualities. practical application

Would we die rather than lie, or would we lie rather than die? questions 1. How does Psalm 14 contrast with Psalm 15?

2. What is the Lord‟s tent or tabernacle referred to in verse 1?

3. Review David‟s desire in Psalm 14:7. 4. What is similar about the three moral qualities of the guest of God in verse 3? 5. What is the meaning of verse 5 concerning usury or interest?

answers 1. Psalm 14 describes the characteristics of the godless fool. Psalm 15 describes the characteristics of the godly guest of God. 2. This is the tent that David erected on Mount Zion in Jerusalem to house the Ark of the Covenant until the Temple was built. 3. David desired for Israel to be restored to the Lord and for the righteous kingdom of God to be established on this earth. This will be realized when the Lord returns to this earth at His Second Coming. 4. They all concern our words. Words are powerful and we are held accountable for what we say as well as what we do. Read James 3:1-12. 5. This refers back to the Law where God‟s people were to loan money to fellow Jews who were in need and not charge them interest (Exodus 22:25 and Leviticus 25:35-37). As Christians who are no longer under the Mosaic Law, the principle is that we should not take advantage of the poor, but should try to help them in their financial struggles. discuss\ consider

Review the moral qualities that characterize the guests of God. As a believer, are you characterized as someone who has fellowship with the Lord? challenge The righteous person does the right thing and does not compromise the truth even to the point of death. What about you? memorize “LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill? He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart.” Psalms 15:1-2

Lesson 10

A Prediction of the Resurrection of Christ Psalm 16

background notes


1. Faithful believers appreciate their present fellowship. 2. Faithful believers appreciate their spiritual inheritance. 3. Faithful believers appreciate their eternal security. practical applications

1. Turn your problem of insomnia into a program of instruction. 2. Let the Bible define your standard of excellence! questions 1. Psalm 16 is “A Michtam of David.” What does this mean?

2. Describe the three types of Messianic psalms.

3. What type of Messianic psalm is Psalm 16? 4. Explain the meaning of verses 5-6. 5. What is the Bible‟s standard of excellence?

answers 1. We don‟t know exactly what this word means, but because the word “michtam” is related to the verb meaning “to cover,” it may indicate that this is a psalm relating to God‟s cover of protection over David in the midst of danger. 2.

Pure-prophetic Messianic Psalms – The psalm is all about the Messiah and does not concern the experience of the psalmist. Like other messianic prophecies in the Old Testament it is straight prophecy. See Psalm 110.

Typical-prophetic Messianic Psalms – The experiences of the psalmist are in view, but the psalm goes beyond to the experiences of the Messiah. The psalmist becomes typical of the coming Messiah.

Combination Messianic Psalms – Part of the psalm is pure-prophetic and part is typical-prophetic. 3. It is a combination Messianic psalm. Throughout most of the psalm David is speaking out of his own experiences of trust in the Lord, and everything he says is typical of Christ, the perfect Man and Son of God, trusting in God the Father. But the second half of verse 10 is pure-prophetic. This could not be said of David in any way. 4. David likened his spiritual inheritance to land being divided up by drawing lots, as the Promised Land was divided between the tribes of Israel. David trusted in the sovereignty of God and he knew God‟s eternal plans were perfect. 5. Righteousness (See verse 3.) discuss\ consider

1. Do you have both vertical and horizontal fellowship? Vertical fellowship is with the Lord and horizontal fellowship is with fellow believers. Read Psalm 16:1-4. Why are both types of fellowship important to your life as a believer? 2. Discuss the doctrine of eternal security. What is the difference between believing in your eternal security, and appreciating it? challenge What do you do when you can‟t sleep? David used this time for prayer and meditation on God‟s Word. We should do the same. memorize “I have set the LORD always before me; Because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.” Psalms 16:8 “For You will not leave my soul in Sheol, Nor will You allow Your Holy one to see corruption.” Psalms 16:10

Lesson 11

The Believer’s Greatest Protection for This Life & His Greatest Prospect for the Life to Come



1. The eye and wings of the Lord are the greatest protection for the believer. 2. The face and likeness of the Lord are the greatest prospect for the believer. practical application

Let Scripture keep you from slipping. questions 1. What was the cause for David‟s prayer in this psalm?

2. Are verses 1-3 proof of salvation by good works?

3. What does David mean when he asks to be the apple of the Lord‟s eye? 4. How does David contrast himself with the wicked in verses 13-15? 5. How was David kept from the path of the violent? How was he able to stay in the steps of the Lord?

answers 1. David prayed for deliverance from the danger that was immediately threatening him. He was urgent in his call for help, because his need was pressing. 2. No! In context David is calling on God to vindicate him and rescue him from the forces that are surrounding him. David is not claiming that he is perfect, but he is blameless and just in this situation while the enemy is wrong and unjust. 3. The apple of the eye is the pupil, which is the source of sight. David is asking for the Lord not only to keep a watchful eye on David, but to make David the focus of His attention. 4. The wicked live for this life only. They are satisfied with the temporal and transitory things that God allows them to have in this life. But David is looking forward to the ultimate satisfaction of enjoying the Lord‟s presence forever when he would be completely righteous. 5. By the Word. The Word of God is the answer to the problem of backsliding. Scripture will keep you from slipping. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the word picture of being the apple of God‟s eye and under the shadow of His wing. Which appeals to you more at this time in your spiritual life? 2. David looked forward to being in the Lord‟s presence. How can you develop and strengthen this attitude in your own life? How is this attitude affected by your focus on temporal and transitory things? challenge Do you get a steady diet of Scripture every day? Scripture is the secret for sanctification. Let Scripture keep you from slipping. memorize “By the word of Your lips, I have kept away from the paths of the destroyer.” Psalms 17:4 Keep me as the apple of Your eye; Hide me under the shadow of Your wings.” Psalms 17:8

Lesson 12

The Greatness of God is Emphasized – in His Character, in His Deliverance, and in His Blessings



1. God is great in His character. 2. God is great in His deliverance. 3. God is great in His blessing. practical application

Don‟t expect God to answer your ungodly prayers. questions 1. Which other Old Testament passage parallels Psalm 18?

2. What type of psalm is Psalm 18?

3. List the metaphors that emphasize the greatness of God‟s character (verses 1-3). 4. Which New Testament passage echoes the moral principle of verses 25-29? 5. Why didn‟t God answer the prayers of the enemy (verse 41)?

answers 1. Psalm 18 is essentially the same as 2 Samuel 22. 2. It is a typical-Messianic psalm, because it concerns David‟s experiences while looking forward to the life of the Messiah, the greater son of David. 3. rock, fortress, shield, horn, and stronghold 4. Galatians 6:7 5. These people were not calling out to Him in repentance and wanting forgiveness. Rather, they wanted help in their ungodly ways. discuss\ consider

Read through Psalm 18 and show how it follows the sequence of the life of our Lord.

Verse 4 and following – His death

Verse 16 and following – His resurrection

Verse 20 and following – His exaltation

Verse 31 and following – His Second Coming

Verse 43 and following – His glorious future kingdom challenge Don‟t expect God to answer your ungodly prayers. Ask yourself if your prayers are in line with His Word and His will. memorize “As for God, His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is proven; He is a shield to all who trust in Him. For who is God, except the LORD? And who is a rock, except our God?” Psalms 18:30-31 “The LORD lives! Blessed be my Rock! Let the God of my salvation be exalted.” Psalms 18:46

Lesson 13

David Speaks about Two Ways God has Revealed Himself – Through Creation and Through Scripture



1. God has spoken with general revelation. 2. God has spoken with special revelation. practical application

What is our response to the books of Revelation? questions 1. How does God reveal Himself according to Psalm 19?

2. What is the difference between general revelation and special revelation?

3. What New Testament passage addresses God‟s general revelation? 4. Discuss the two Hebrew names for God used in this psalm. 5. How did David respond to God‟s great glory and holiness as revealed in His creation and His Word (verses 12-14)?

answers 1. Through Creation and through Scripture 2. The Creation is God‟s general revelation, because it has been given to everyone. The Scriptures are God‟s special revelation because they are specifically given to certain people and they contain revelation of the one true God that cannot be determined from general revelation. 3. Romans 1:20 4. In verses 1-6 the name is El, meaning “the strong one.” This describes the power of God. In verses 7-14, the name is Yahweh or Lord, which stresses God‟s covenant relationship with His people. 5. David desired righteousness in his own life. discuss\ consider

1. Recall a time when the general revelation of creation has testified to you about the existence and character of God. What feelings did this inspire within you? 2. For David, the Word of God was the most valuable and most satisfying treasure he owned. Discuss how you can develop this attitude about the Word in your own life. challenge Review David‟s response to God‟s revelation in verses 12-14. How will you respond? memorize “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament shows His handiwork.” Psalms 19:1 “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart Be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer.” Psalms 19:14

Lesson 14

Battle Songs Psalms 20 & 21

background notes


1. Prayer and assurance bring victory. 2. Rejoicing and confidence follow victory. practical applications

1. Go with confidence in the name of the Lord. 2. Get ready for the showdown! questions 1. What type of psalms are Psalms 20 and 21?

2. Why should it be encouraging for believers to think of the Lord as the God of Jacob rather than the more common title of the God of Abraham? 3. What is the meaning of “help from the sanctuary” in verse 2? 4. What battle might David be referring to in these psalms? 5. Which verses in Psalm 21 are typical-messianic?

answers 1. They are both battle songs set to music and singing. Psalm 20 is a psalm of prayer before the battle and Psalm 21 is after the battle. Both psalms have typical-messianic implications. 2. Because although Jacob was not perfect, God was pleased to bless him. 3. David is asking for help from the Lord Himself, whose presence is in the sanctuary. 4. These psalms may refer to his war with the Ammonites and Syrians as recorded in 2 Samuel 10 and 12. 5. Verses 4-6 look forward to the risen and exalted Messiah. Verses 10-13 look forward to the end times when all the Lord‟s enemies will be defeated and subdued and the Lord will be exalted and praised. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss some of the things we as humans put our trust in for our security and well being. Are these things worthy of our trust? Read Psalm 20:7. How would your life be different if your confidence was in the name of the Lord? 2. Review various showdowns between God and the enemy in Scripture. When will be the ultimate showdown? challenge Go with confidence in the name of the Lord. When you pray to the Lord and have the assurance that He hears and will answer, then you can go with confidence – regardless of the outcome. memorize “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the LORD our God.” Psalms 20:7 “The king shall have joy in Your strength, O LORD; And in Your salvation how greatly shall he rejoice!” Psalms 21:1

Lesson 15

An Amazing Messianic Psalm Psalm 22

background notes


1. The Lord experienced the requirements of substitution. 2. The Lord experienced the sufferings of crucifixion. 3. The Lord experienced the blessings of resurrection. practical application

Are you in Psalm 22? questions 1. Why did the Lord seem so far away from David in his situation?

2. Why did the Lord Jesus cry out on the cross, “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me”?

3. Why did the Father forsake His Son on the cross? 4. What is amazing about Psalm 22‟s prophecy concerning the sufferings of Christ? 5. What is the perspective of the end of verse 21 through the end of the psalm?

answers 1. God ordained that David would go through these experiences because the greater David, the Lord Jesus Christ, would go through the experiences of the cross. David‟s writings in Psalm 22 are a typical-Messianic psalm, although some sections are purely-prophetic. 2. Because Christ was really going through the experience of being forsaken by His heavenly Father. This was not just a quotation; it was truly His experience. 3. God is holy and He must judge sin (verse 3). He had to forsake His only Son when the Lord Jesus became our substitute on the cross. 4. Psalm 22 was certainly written well before the time of Christ, as proven by its inclusion in the Dead Sea Scrolls. And yet verses 14-18 describe crucifixion – a Roman way of execution unknown in Old Testament days. Stoning was the Hebrew way of crucifixion under the Law. 5. This is written from the perspective of the resurrected Messiah. The Lord is no longer forsaken by the Father. His cry was heard and answered. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the Lord‟s role as your substitute for sin. See 2 Corinthians 5:21 and 1 Peter 2:24. Have you ever willingly taken the punishment that someone else deserved? Although Christ was perfect and never sinned, He took on our sin for us. 2. Revisit the sufferings of the Lord during His crucifixion. Think about Christ‟s attitude toward you that prompted such a sacrifice. challenge Read Psalm 22:30-31. Are you in these verses? Are you serving the Lord and sharing about His righteousness and finished work? memorize “My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me?” Psalms 22:1 “They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones. They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots.” Psalms 22:16-18 “I will declare Your name to My brethren; In the midst of the assembly I will praise You.” Psalms 22:22

Lesson 16

The Wonderful Relationship Between God and His People Pictured as the Close Relationship Between a Shepherd and His Sheep



1. The Lord is my Shepherd in His provision for me. 2. The Lord is my Shepherd in His protection for me. 3. The Lord is my Shepherd in His program for me. practical application

Can you say, “The Lord is my Shepherd?” questions 1. If the Lord is the Shepherd, who are His sheep?

2. What is the theme of Psalm 23?

3. What does the Lord provide for us, the sheep? 4. How does the shepherd use his rod and staff? 5. Describe the analogy of anointing a sheep‟s head with oil.

answers 1. The Lord is a shepherd to us as individual sheep and to His flock, the nation of Israel in the Old Testament and the Church in the New Testament. 2. Being a sheep in the flock of the greatest Shepherd 3. He provides us with spiritual nourishment and spiritual provision. 4. The rod of the shepherd protects the sheep by being used to fight off wild beasts. It can also be used to discipline the sheep. The staff of the shepherd protects the sheep by keeping the stray sheep in line and away from danger. 5. A sheep‟s head was anointed with oil to protect it from pesky insects. Our great Shepherd knows how to protect us from big, fearsome enemies as well as small, bothersome enemies. discuss\ consider

1. The theme of the Shepherd and His sheep is a theme that runs throughout the Bible. Recall various passages in the Old and New Testaments about the Lord as our Shepherd. 2. Have you ever walked through the Valley of the Shadow of Death? Describe your experience and whether you knew the Lord was right there with you. challenge Many people admit that Jesus was a great moral teacher and leader. Do you go beyond this to recognize the Lord as your personal Savior and Shepherd? memorize “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness or His name‟s sake. Yea, 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. You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD Forever.” Psalms 23

Lesson 17

The Return of the Lord to this Earth in Victory Psalm 24

background notes


1. Only the clean and the pure are qualified to enter the Lord‟s holy place in righteousness. 2. Only the King of Glory is qualified to enter the gates of Jerusalem in victory. practical application

Have you opened the gates of your heart to the King? questions 1. What was the possible occasion for this psalm?

2. How does verse 1 relate to the Land of Israel?

3. What does it mean to have clean hands and a pure heart?

4. Explain the meaning of verse 9. 5. What will be the Lord‟s first task when He returns to this earth?

answers 1. David may have written it when he brought the Ark of the Covenant up to Jerusalem. The Ark indicated God‟s presence in the midst of His people, and therefore it pictures Christ in the midst of His people. 2. God is the Owner and Creator of the earth and all it contains. He gave a certain portion of the Middle East to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. 3. In the context of the Old Testament, this was the person who was bringing the required sacrifices under the Law and seeking to live a righteous life. In the context of the New Testament, this is the person who has come to Christ for salvation and is living a godly life. 4. Here the gates of Jerusalem are pictured as having their heads down, but they are lifted up as the gates are opened and the Lord enters in triumphal victory. 5. His first order of business will be conquering and judging those who have been against His people, the godly remnant of Jews and the saints of the Tribulation Period. Then, after total victory and judgment of the wicked, the Lord will enter Jerusalem in triumphal victory. discuss\ consider

Discuss how Psalms 22, 23, and 24 go together to show three aspects of our Lord as the Shepherd of the sheep: Psalm 22 – He is the Good Shepherd – John 10:11 Psalm 23 – He is the Great Shepherd – Hebrews 13:20 Psalm 24 – He is the Chief Shepherd – 1 Peter 5:4 challenge When the gates of Jerusalem are opened as the Lord ascends His earthly throne, every knee will bow to Him as sovereign Lord. Have you opened the gates of your heart to the Lord before you have no choice? memorize “Who may ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who may stand in His holy place? He who has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul to an idol, nor sworn deceitfully.” Psalms 24:3-4 “Who is this King of glory? The LORD of hosts, He is the King of glory.” Psalms 24:10

Lesson 18

David Looks to the Lord for Needs in His Life Psalm 25

background notes


1. Committed believers look to the Lord for guidance and forgiveness. 2. Committed believers look to the Lord for instruction and deliverance. 3. Committed believers look to the Lord for comfort and protection. practical application

Praise the Lord for Psalm 25:7. questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 25?

2. What is the structure of Psalm 25?

3. On what basis does David ask the Lord not to remember his former sins (vs 6-7)? 4. Summarize verses 8-15. 5. What does it mean to fear the Lord? 6. What should you do when you face opposition from your enemies?

answers 1. Psalm 25 is an alphabetic acrostic psalm, where each verse begins with a successive letter of the Hebrew alphabet. 2. The first seven verses and the last seven verses are prayers to the Lord. The verses inbetween (vs 8-15) are about the Lord and the blessings of those who trust the Lord. 3. On the basis of God‟s compassion, lovingkindness, and goodness 4. The obedient and committed believer can depend on the Lord for instruction and deliverance. 5. It means to honor and show reverence to God, who is all-powerful and holy. 6. You should turn to the Lord, as David did. He did not take his own revenge, rather he trusted the Lord to vindicate him, based on His righteous character. discuss\ consider

1. David beseeched the Lord not to remember his former sins. As believers, we can pray this with more assurance now that Christ has come and died for our sins. Read 1 John 1:9. Discuss how our sins affect our fellowship with the Lord. 2. Remember a time when you felt extreme loneliness. Discuss Psalm 25:16-18 and Hebrews 13:5. When we look to the Lord and confess our sins, our fellowship is restored and our loneliness is removed, as we experience the comfort of the Lord. challenge Aren‟t you glad that the Lord doesn‟t remember the sins of your youth? Thank Him for this! memorize “To You, O LORD, I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in You; Let me not be ashamed; Let not my enemies triumph over me.” Psalms 25:1-2 “The humble He guides in justice, and the humble He teaches His way.” Psalms 25:9 “Let integrity and uprightness preserve me, for I wait for You.” Psalms 25:21

Lesson 19

David’s Integrity in Life & His Confidence in the Lord

Psalms 26 and 27 background notes


1. The lives of believers should be characterized by integrity. 2. The lives of believers should be characterized by confidence. practical applications

1. Follow Psalm 26:3 for integrity. 2. What one thing would you ask of the Lord? questions 1. Is David claiming to be perfect in Psalm 26 and teaching salvation by good works?

2. What does it mean to “wash your hands in innocence” (v 6)?

3. Does a Christian ever need to pray Psalm 27:9? 4. List some of the factors of David‟s confidence from Psalm 27. 5. What “one thing” did David ask of the Lord?

answers 1. No, David is not claiming that he lived a perfect life, but he is claiming that in this situation he is innocent. 2. This means to take definite action to separate from that which defiles and a determination not to get mixed up in unrighteousness. David did not want to be associated with sinners, knowing that there would be a coming day of judgment. 3. No. David was praying this in Old Testament times. All Christians now have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them, so we do not have to pray that the Lord will not abandon us. 4. David was looking to the Lord and not to himself. David desired to worship the Lord and fellowship with Him in the Lord‟s house. David had sure hope in God‟s sovereign plan for his life. 5. David wanted to know and experience the presence of the Lord more. He desired close fellowship with the Lord more than anything else in life. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the two things that will characterize our lifestyle if we claim a life of integrity:

We will be separate from sin and sinners.

We will be separate unto the Lord and His people. 2. As with anything in life, we will only spend time in communion with the Lord if we make time for it and make it a priority. Have you seen, as David, that this desire to worship the Lord can give you courageous confidence? Discuss why this may be. challenge Will you be “separate from” and “separate unto” this week? memorize “Vindicate me, O LORD, for I have walked in my integrity.” Psalms 26:1 “I will wash my hands in innocence.” Psalms 26:6 “The LORD is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The LORD is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalms 27:1 “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD!” Psalms 27:14

Lesson 20

David Distinguishes Himself from the Wicked & David Praises the Lord for His Power and Strength

Psalms 28 & 29

background notes


1. There is a time and place for imprecation. 2. God is sovereign over storms. practical applications

1. Praise the Lord for being our SSS. 2. Let‟s not complain about the weather! questions 1. Why is it important to remember the timeframe of these Scriptures?

2. What is imprecation?

3. What three “Ss” describe our Lord in Psalm 28? 4. Who are the “sons of the mighty” or “mighty ones” in Psalm 29:1? 5. What inspired David to write Psalm 29?

answers 1. Because as Old Testament Scriptures, they were written before the coming of Christ and before the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in every believer. As New Testament believers, we do not have to request that the Lord not turn a deaf ear to us or that we will not be dragged away with the wicked (Psalm 28:1-3). We have assurance that God hears our prayers and that heaven is our future home. 2. Imprecation comes from a word meaning “to curse.” Certain Psalms are called imprecatory psalms because they call for God‟s judgment on the unbeliever. 3.

The Lord is our strength – verses 7,8

The Lord is our shield – verse 7

The Lord is our shepherd – verse 9 4. This probably refers to angels, who are called upon to give glory unto the Lord and worship Him in the beauty of holiness. 5. A mighty storm as it moved in from the Mediterranean Sea and swept inland to Lebanon and Syria north of Israel. discuss\ consider

1. What is the appropriate time and place for imprecation? Compare Matthew 5:44, Galatians 1:8-9, and 1 Corinthians 16:22. Discuss how biblical imprecation is not a call for personal revenge. 2. Losses and changes in our life can be like storms. God is sovereign over the storms and life and can use them to teach us and accomplish His purpose in us. Discuss your most recent storm. What did God teach you through this? challenge How will you think of the Lord this week, as your strength, your shield, or your shepherd? memorize “The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped; therefore my heart greatly rejoices, and with my song I will praise Him.” Psalm 28:7 “Give unto the LORD, O you mighty ones; give unto the LORD glory and strength. Give unto the LORD the glory due to His name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.” Psalm 29:1-2

Lesson 21

David Rejoices in the Lord in This Life Psalm 30

background notes


1. Believers should praise the Lord when they are healed from sickness. 2. Believers should praise the Lord while they are still alive. practical applications

1. Are you ready for the Lord‟s answer to all your questions? 2. Remember, night does not last forever. questions 1. Discuss the title of this psalm, “A Song at the dedication of the house of David.”

2. What does this psalm teach us about prayer during times of sickness?

3. What is the teaching of verse 9?

answers 1. One possible scenario is that this psalm was written for the dedication of the site of the temple, soon after the plague on Israel was stopped and the land was healed. David himself may have also been healed and raised up from near death. 2. It is right and biblical for believers to pray for those who are sick. And it is equally important to praise when God does heal. 3. If David were to die and go down to the pit, or grave, then he would not be able to praise the Lord and give testimony to the Lord‟s faithfulness. discuss\ consider

1. Read 1 Chronicles 21-22:1. Read through Psalm 30 and show how the verses parallel David‟s experience during this time. 2. Can you tell of someone who used their sickness during this short time on earth as an opportunity to praise the Lord? How can you develop this attitude in your own life? challenge Are you experiencing a “night” of sorrow right now? Remember, the night will not last forever. The morning will come with the Lord‟s return. memorize “Sing praise to the LORD, you saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holy name. For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Psalm 30:4-5

Lesson 22

David Calls on the Lord to Deliver him out of Physical Distress and Danger &

David Thanks the Lord for Answering his Prayer Psalm 31

background notes


1. The experiences of David in Psalm 31 have personal applications. 2. The experiences of David in Psalm 31 have prophetic implications. practical application

Let‟s stop bowing to idols! questions 1. How could we outline Psalm 31?

2. What is the possible occasion for this psalm?

3. What terms does David use to describe the Lord as his security? 4. How does Luke 22:31-32 relate to this psalm? 5. What verse from this psalm did the Lord quote on the cross?

answers 1.

verses 1-6: Prayer for Deliverance

verses 7-8: Praise for Deliverance

verses 9-18: Prayer for Deliverance

verses 19-22: Praise for Deliverance

verses 23-24: A call for all believers to praise the Lord 2. This was probably written during the time of Saul‟s persecution of David, while he was besieged in Keilah (1 Samuel 23). 3.

My refuge – verse 2

My stronghold and fortress – verse 2

My rock – verse 3 4. In verses 7-8, David praises the Lord that he has not been handed over to the enemy, similarly to Peter in the Luke passage. Thank the Lord for keeping you out of the hands of Satan, who would just love to get hold of you and destroy your faith. 5. Verse 5, see Luke 23:4-6 discuss\ consider

Reading this psalm of David is like traveling through valleys and mountains with him. This psalm has a lot of personal application, because life consists of highs and lows. Are you in a valley or on a mountaintop in your Christian life right now? Which verses in this psalm are most encouraging to you? challenge Are you completely trusting the Lord for your care, protection, and guidance? Where is your trust for yourself, your family, and your future? memorize “In You, O LORD, I put my trust; let me never be ashamed; deliver me in Your righteousness.” Psalm 31:1 “But as for me, I trust in You, O LORD; I say, „You are my God.‟ My times are in Your hand.” Psalm 31:14-15

Lesson 23

A Psalm of Confession and Forgiveness Psalm 32

background notes


1. Godly sorrow results in repentance and salvation. 2. Godly instruction results in direction and joy. practical application

Keep short accounts with God. questions 1. In this psalm, David speaks of keeping silent about a sin that he had committed. What sin was this?

2. What other psalm is similar to Psalm 32?

3. In what way does godly sorrow result in salvation (2 Corinthians 7:10)? 4. When David confessed his sin, were all his problems resolved? 5. Explain the illustration about the horse or mule (verse 9).

answers 1. It was likely David‟s sin of committing adultery with Bathsheba and then having her husband Uriah killed in order to cover up the evidence. 2. Psalm 51, which was written soon after the prophet Nathan confronted David with his sin. 3. In the case of an unbeliever, godly sorrow will lead to repentance and eternal salvation from the penalty of sin. In the case of a believer, godly sorrow will lead to repentance and salvation or deliverance from the discipline of God. 4. No, David still had to face the consequences for his sin, but his fellowship with the Lord was restored. 5. We should not be like a horse or mule which must be led by a bit and bridle, rather we should willingly seek out godly instruction. discuss\ consider

1. David‟s unconfessed sin affected him mentally, emotionally, spiritually, and physically. Have you ever experienced this anguish when you tried to cover up sin in your life? What happened when you finally confessed that sin? 2. There were still consequences for David‟s sin, but his confession restored his fellowship with the Lord. Why is it important to distinguish this? Discuss how the restored fellowship equipped David to face the consequences ahead. challenge Keep a short account with God, so your fellowship with Him will not be disrupted. It does you no good to hide and cover up your sin. memorize “Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.” Psalm 32:1 “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye.” Psalm 32:8

Lesson 24

Praise the Lord for His Dependable Care and Control over all Things



1. Believers should praise the Lord for His sovereign care of creation. 2. Believers should praise the Lord for His sovereign control of history. practical application

1. Rejoice in the standards of God. 2. Rejoice in the sovereignty of God. questions 1. What should praise songs be about?

2. What is meant by a “new song” in verse 3?

3. Which verses in this psalm support God‟s creation week rather than the evolutionary process? 4. What is the teaching of verses 10-11?

answers 1. Praise songs should be about the Lord – who He is, what He has done, what He is doing, and what He will do. Our praise should not focus on ourselves, but on the Lord. 2. The idea is that our praise should be fresh and not stale. The truth is not new or changing, but the appreciation of our redemption and the Lord‟s faithfulness should bring new and fresh praise from our hearts. See Lamentations 3:22-23. 3. verses 6 and 9 4. No matter what the peoples and nations of history have planned with their political power and military strength, it comes to nothing if it is not in line with God‟s plan for history. discuss\ consider

1. “The earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.” Psalm 33:5 Recall a time when you have enjoyed God‟s goodness through His creation. Recall the sights, sounds, and smells. How did these testify to you about God? 2. Psalms 33:16-18 makes it clear that every battle in history has been under the sovereign control of God. Recall examples of this from biblical battles. Can you think of any modern day examples? There are many from the modern State of Israel. 3. Discuss what it means to rejoice in the standards of God. Do you think there is a difference between tolerating God‟s moral standards and obeying them? challenge Knowing that God controls all things should give you great confidence as a believer. Do you rejoice in the sovereignty of God? memorize “For the word of the LORD is right, and all His work is done in truth. He loves righteousness and justice; the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.” Psalm 33:4-5 “Behold, the eye of the LORD is on those who fear Him, on those who hope in His mercy.” Psalm 33:18

Lesson 25

A Song of the Saved Psalm 34

background notes


1. Believers should themselves praise the Lord for His goodness and deliverance. 2. Believers should teach others to praise the Lord for His goodness and deliverance. practical application

Allow for the fuller meaning of Scripture. questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 34?

2. What was the occasion for the writing of this psalm?

3. What does it mean to boast in the Lord? 4. Who is the Angel of the Lord (verse 7)? 5. What are the three commands for fearing the Lord in verses 12-14? 6. How does the hermeneutical principle “Allow for the fuller meaning of Scripture” apply to verses 20-22?

answers 1. It is an alphabetic acrostic psalm, based on the Hebrew alphabet. 2. David wrote this psalm when he was fleeing from King Saul, and pretended madness before King Achish of Gath (1 Samuel 21). 3. To boast in the Lord means to talk about what the Lord has done in your life and not just talk about yourself. 4. The Angel of the Lord in the Old Testament was the preincarnate Christ. So the Lord Himself is our defense and security. 5.

1) Control your tongue 2) Separate from evil and do good 3) Pursue peace

6. In the context of Psalm 34, these verses are a general expression of God‟s protection of the believer. But under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, John applied this in a literal way to the Lord‟s crucifixion (John 19:36). discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the emphasis on “themselves” in the doctrinal point “Believers should themselves praise the Lord for His goodness and deliverance.” In what way to we tend to rely on others to praise the Lord for us? How can we be more personally involved in praising the Lord? 2. Read Psalm 34:17-19. Like David, believers will experience troubles in this life. Discuss how believers are not delivered from troubles, but out of troubles. Compare John 16:33. challenge This week how will you teach others to praise the Lord? memorize “I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Psalm 34:1 “Oh, taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!” Psalm 34:8

Lesson 26

David Prays for Deliverance & Personal Vindication Psalm 35

background notes


1. Prayer for vindication is based on righteous living and not on personal revenge. 2. Prayer for vindication is based on divine justice and not on personal triumph. practical application

Let the Lord be magnified when we‟re vindicated. questions 1. What was the occasion of the writing of this psalm?

2. What is an imprecatory psalm? Was it wrong for David to write this?

3. On what basis was David requesting vindication? 4. What is the prophetic application of Psalm 35?

answers 1. Most likely it was when David was escaping from King Saul who was wrongly chasing David in an attempt to kill him. 2. To imprecate means to curse. David was not praying for personal revenge, but rather calling for God‟s judgment on the wicked so that God‟s standards and divine justice will be maintained. 3. It was based on David‟s own personal integrity and righteous living. David knew that he was in the right, while Saul was in the wrong. 4. This imprecatory psalm will certainly apply to the persecuted godly remnant of the future Tribulation Period. They will cry out for vindication based on divine justice, and God will answer. discuss\ consider

Recall a time when you have really wanted personal revenge. Did you take matters into your own hands, or did you let God bring the vindication? What was the outcome either way? challenge When the Lord vindicates you, will you give Him the praise? Take this opportunity to magnify the Lord, rather than gloating in yourself. memorize “Plead my cause, O LORD, with those who strive with me; fight against those who fight against me.” Psalm 35:1 “Vindicate me, O LORD my God, according to Your righteousness; and let them not rejoice over me.” Psalm 35:24

Lesson 27

The Principles of the Ungodly are Contrasted with the Life and Experience of the Godly



1. The SOP of the ungodly is to not follow and not fear the Lord. 2. The SOP of the godly is to experience and enjoy the attributes of God. practical application

1. Come to the fountain of life. 2. Pray for your preservation with the right philosophy. questions 1. What can we learn from the title of Psalm 36?

2. What is the theme of Psalm 36?

3. Outline this psalm. 4. What does SOP stand for? 5. Discuss the attribute of God often translated “lovingkindness.”

answers 1. Psalm 36 is a psalm of David written for the Chief musician or choir director. This means it was set to music and used at the Temple for worship. 2. There is a great contrast between the way the ungodly thinks and acts, and the way God‟s thoughts and actions are directed toward blessing the believer. 3.

The Wickedness of the Wicked – verses 1-4

The Graciousness of God – verses 5-9

The Confidence of the Christian – verses 10-12 Or

The Sinner – verses 1-4

The Savior – verses 5-9

The Saint – verses 10-12 4. Standard Operating Procedure 5. This hard-to-translate Hebrew word is sometimes rendered “love” or “mercy.” It speaks of God‟s love as steadfast, faithful, protective, righteous, and loyal. discuss\ consider

1. Ungodly people live their lives with no fear of God. Discuss how unbelievers, and believers as well, become desensitized to sin. 2. Compare 1 John 1:7 to Psalm 36:9, “In Your light we see light.” How do you gain insight and understanding in life? challenge Have you come to the fountain of life? Like the woman at the well in John 4, the Lord is offering you living water so you will not thirst. memorize “Your mercy, O LORD, is in the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the clouds. Your righteousness is like the great mountains; Your judgments are a great deep.” Psalm 35:5-6

Lesson 28

Do not Fret about the Prosperity of the Wicked, Rather, Trust in the Sovereign Ways of the Lord



1. Believers should not fret about the success of the wicked. 2. Believers should not lose faith because of the success of the wicked. practical application

Psalm 37:4 is not a blank check for all believers! questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 37?

2. What age-old question was raised in Psalm 36?

3. How is Psalm 37 a natural follow-up to this question? 4. Why shouldn‟t we be envious of the prosperity of wrongdoers? 5. When will the righteous receive the inheritance of the land (verse 29)? 6. What is the key for stability in this life (verses 30-31)?

answers 1. It is an acrostic, based on the Hebrew alphabet. 2. Why do the wicked seem to prosper more than the righteous? 3. Here the believer is exhorted not to fret about the prosperity of the wicked. Just continue to trust the Lord and rest in His sovereign ways. 4. Because their prosperity is only temporary. 5. In the future earthly kingdom of our Lord, and in the New Heavens and New Earth for eternity 6. To know and speak the Word of God discuss\ consider

1. In what way have you see the wicked prosper in this life? Read through Psalm 37 and discuss why this should not cause you anxiety. 2. David testifies in verses 25-26 that he has never seen the righteous go begging. Even though they may not be as prosperous as the wicked, they always have enough so that they can even give to others. How have you seen this to be true in your life? challenge When you delight yourself in the Lord, your desires become more in line with the Lord‟s desires. Understand this when you read Psalm 37:4! memorize “Do not fret because of evildoers, nor be envious of the workers of iniquity.” Psalm 37:1 “Delight yourself also in the LORD and He shall give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4 “Wait on the LORD, and keep His way, and He shall exalt you to inherit the land.” Psalm 37:34

Lesson 29

The Consequences of Sin & The Shortness of Life



1. Believers should acknowledge the fact that there are consequences to sin. 2. Believers should accept the fact that life is short. practical applications

1. Expect to be lonely when you sin. 2. Live as if you only had six more months! questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 38?

2. What sin was David mourning in Psalm 38?

3. Why does David focus on the shortness of life in Psalm 39? 4. Who was Jeduthun? 5. What was David requesting in Psalm 39:4?

answers 1. Psalm 38 is a penitential psalm, expressing sorrow because of the consequence of sin. 2. Probably his glaring failure to discipline his family at the time of Amnon‟s rape of Tamar and the subsequent murder of Amnon by Absalom. 3. Because he is under the hand of God and experiencing disciplinary sickness 4. Jeduthun was one of the choir directors, appointed by David to lead public worship. 5. He was not praying that the Lord would reveal to him how he would die or how much time he had left, but rather that the Lord would help him to appreciate the brevity of human life. discuss\ consider

1. David did not try to make excuses for his sin or vindicate himself in any way. Discuss how this allowed him to regain fellowship with the Lord. Do you think making excuses for our sin prolongs the painful consequences? 2. Even in the midst of his suffering, David was careful to be a good witness for God. He did not complain about God‟s ways in his life, lest the wicked find fault with God‟s ways. And he requested relief from God‟s heavy hand, so that unbelievers would not gloat over David‟s situation. Discuss whether you would have a mindset like this in the midst of suffering. challenge What would you do if the Lord told you that you only had six more months to live? memorize “O LORD, do not rebuke me in Your wrath, nor chasten me in Your hot displeasure! For Your arrows pierce me deeply, and Your hand presses me down.” Psalm 38:1-2 “LORD, make me to know my end, and what is the measure of my days, that I may know how frail I am.” Psalm 39:4

Lesson 30

Two Typical-Messianic Psalms Psalms 40 & 41

background notes


1. The deliverance and dedication in Psalm 40 are typical in reference to Christ. 2. The blessing and betrayal in Psalm 41 are typical in reference to Christ. practical application

1. Wait patiently for deliverance. 2. Watch what you say about the sick! questions 1. What is a typical-Messianic psalm?

2. How does Psalm 40 change in verse 11? What is David‟s attitude?

3. Why does Psalm 40:6 differ from its quotation in Hebrews 10:5? 4. Where are Psalms 40 and 41 quoted in the New Testament? 5. What troubles was David facing in Psalm 41? 6. Who were David‟s enemies in this psalm?

answers 1. It is an account of the experiences of David, but some of these experiences are illustrative or typical or the greater David, the Lord Jesus Christ. 2. A new situation arises where David again looks to the Lord for deliverance. He is confident that the Lord will deliver him even though he realizes that many of his troubles are because of his own sins. 3. The author of Hebrews quoted the verse from the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Old Testament. 4. Psalm 40:6-8 is quoted in Hebrews 10:5-7. The Lord quotes Psalm 41:9 in reference to his betrayal by Judas in John 13:17-18. 5. sickness and enemies 6. These were close associates of David in the royal court (verses 5-9). They were waiting and hoping for David to die as they slandered him behind his back. discuss\ consider

1. In Psalm 40, David praises the Lord for deliverance from some distressing situations. From what has the Lord delivered you recently? Read through verses 1-10 and use them to praise the Lord for His deliverance. 2. There are many causes of sickness. Some sickness is God‟s discipline, some is from the devil, but through any sickness God can be glorified. So watch what you say about the sick. Your presumptions could be devastating to a sick person. challenge Are you willing to wait patiently for the Lord? God does hear your cries for deliverance and He does care. Wait on the Lord. memorize “I waited patiently for the LORD; and He inclined to me, and heard my cry. He also brought me up out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my steps. He has put a new song in my mouth – Praise to our God; many will see it and fear, and will trust in the LORD.” Psalm 40:1-3 “By this I know that You are well pleased with me, because my enemy does not triumph over me.” Psalm 41:11

Lesson 31

The Psalmist Longs to be Back in Jerusalem Where he can Worship the Lord

Psalms 42-43 background notes


1. Believers who long for God when thirsty will not be disappointed. 2. Believers who lean on God when oppressed will not be disappointed. practical application

1. Praise the Lord when your soul thirsts for God! 2. It‟s okay to ask why! questions 1. Who were the sons of Korah?

2. What hint does Psalm 42:6 give us about the setting of the author when he wrote these psalms?

3. Why is the psalmist weeping in Psalm 42:3? 4. Why do we say that Psalm 42 and 43 may have originally been one psalm? 5. Does the psalmist desire personal revenge for his captivity?

answers 1. The sons of Korah were Kohathites of the tribe of Levi whom David appointed to praise the Lord in the ministry of music (see 1Chronicles 6). 2. It would seem from verse 6 that the author was in exile or captivity somewhere in the north of Israel where the Jordan Valley is wide below the peaks of Mt. Hermon. Possibly they were written by a Jewish captive of the Syrians when the Syrians controlled this territory during the reigns of Ahab and Jehoshaphat. Or it could have been written by one of the captives when Assyrians invaded the Land. 3. He weeps in sorrow as he is taunted by the enemy where he is held captive. “Where is your God?” they say. 4. The psalms naturally go together because in both psalms the writer longs to be back in Jerusalem to worship the Lord at His holy temple. Also, we see the same refrain in Psalm 42:5, 11 and 43:5. Some ancient Hebrew manuscripts have these psalms united as one. 5. No, he only desires vindication and deliverance from enemy oppression and the opportunity to worship the Lord at the Temple. He is leaning totally on the Lord and is confident that the Lord will grant his requests. discuss\ consider

1. Even though it seemed that God had forgotten the psalmist as he experienced enemy opposition (42:9) and physical and emotional distress (42:10), yet he was confident that the Lord would deliver him. We see this in the refrain of verses 5 and 11. Can you tell of a time when you longed for the Lord and were not disappointed? 2. Reread these psalms noting the author‟s fervent desire to worship the Lord. So often we take the privilege of going to church and worshiping God for granted. We may even see it as drudgery or a burden. Discuss how you can cultivate in your life the mindset of this psalmist toward worship. challenge In these psalms the psalmist asked God “why” ten times. It was not wrong for the psalmist to voice these questions and it is not an indication that he has given up the faith. You can ask God “why” when you need understanding, insight, or long to be in close fellowship with the Lord. memorize “As the deer pants for the water brooks, so pants my soul for You, O God.” Psalm 42:1 “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God; for I shall yet praise Him, the help of my countenance and my God.” Psalm 42:11

Lesson 32

The Lord is Praised for His Past Victories and Petitioned for Deliverance from the Present National Calamity



1. Past victories for God‟s people should result in praise to the Lord. 2. Present sufferings of God‟s people should result in prayer to the Lord. practical application

Remember the context of Romans 8:36! questions 1. How are the psalms divided?

2. Psalm 44 is a national lament psalm. What does this mean?

3. In verses 17-22, the psalmist claims that the nation was innocent of any wrong doing. When could these conditions have been present in the nation of Israel? 4. According to verses 4-8, in what were the people putting their confidence? 5. What do you do if you are being oppressed in some way as Israel was and you don‟t understand why God is allowing it?

answers 1. The psalms are divided into three books. Book 2, consisting of Psalm 42-72, begins with a section of psalms written by the sons of Korah. 2. In a national lament psalm, the writer is speaking on behalf of the nation. We see here that Israel is facing a national crisis; they had been invaded by a foreign army which had taken away the spoils of war. 3. Certainly not during the time leading up to the Babylonian captivity. One possible time period would be during the reign of good King Hezekiah (2 Chronicles 31-32). The enemy oppressing the nation during Hezekiah‟s day was Sennacherib and the Assyrian army. 4. Their confidence was not in bows and arrows and swords, but in the name and power of the Lord. 5. You pray! Psalm 44:26 discuss\ consider

1. Past victories for God‟s people should result in praise to the Lord. Have you experienced the Lord‟s victory in time of sickness, physical danger, or spiritual warfare? Do you remember to look back and praise the Lord for this? 2. When we are in difficult circumstances it often seems we try many different solutions to the problem before we remember to pray! Have you seen this as true in your own life? Why do you think this happens? How can we remember to turn to God in prayer right away rather than later on? challenge In Romans 8, Paul quotes Psalm 44:22. He uses this verse as proof that God does not forsake His people. Even if the Lord allows you to be martyred, you are never forsaken or separated from His love. memorize “You have saved us from our enemies, and have put to shame those who hated us.” Psalm 44:7 “You have given us up like sheep intended for food, and have scattered us among the nations.” Psalm 44:11 “Arise for our help, and redeem us for Your mercies‟ sake.” Psalm 44:26

Lesson 33

A Royal Wedding Song Psalm 45

background notes


1. The first and second advents of Christ are included in Psalm 45. 2. The humanity and deity of Christ are included in Psalm 45. 3. The bride and redeemed of Christ are included in Psalm 45. practical application

If your tongue was a pen, what would it write? questions 1. Why is this song categorized as a Messianic psalm?

2. What is the structure of Psalm 45?

3. Where in this psalm do we see the second coming of Christ? 4. In verse 6, the king is addressed as God, and yet in verse 7 the king is a man blessed by God. How could this be true of the historical king about whom this psalm was written? 5. Since Psalm 45 is a typical Messianic psalm, who do the queen and her royal attendants represent?

answers 1. Because it is quoted in the New Testament in reference to Jesus Christ, the Messiah (Hebrews 1:8-9). We say it is “typical Messianic” because it refers to a historical wedding of one of the kings of Israel, but looks on to Israel‟s greater King, the Lord Jesus. 2. The king is first described and praised (verses 1-9), the bride is addressed and described (verses 10-15), and then there is a benediction (verses 16-17). 3. In verses 3-5, we see the Lord returning in splendor and majesty, but also in judgment. There is a similar description of our Lord‟s return in Revelation 19:11-16. 4. In the historical context, this king who was greatly blessed of God was looked on as God‟s representative. Especially in a theocracy like Israel, the king was seen as standing in the place of God, with direct authority from God. 5. The New Testament teaches that the Church is the Bride of Christ, and we read of the coming Marriage Supper of the Lamb in Revelation 19. The royal attendants represent all the rest of the redeemed who will attend the Marriage Supper – the Old Testament saints and the martyred saints of the Tribulation Period (Revelation 19:9). discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 45:1-2 praises the king as the greatest of all men. God‟s grace and blessing were poured out upon Him. Discuss how this description is fitting of our Lord Jesus, the greatest Man who ever lived. 2. Read about the Marriage Supper of the Lamb in Revelation 19. What correlations can you see between this and Psalm 45? What aspect of this future celebration is most meaningful to you? challenge Your tongue is a pen – what is it writing? memorize “Your throne, O God, is forever and ever; a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of Your kingdom.” Psalm 45:6 “You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, Your God, has anointed You with the oil of gladness more than Your companions.” Psalm 45:7

Lesson 34

The Lord is Magnified as the Refuge & Strength of His People & Exalted as the Ruler and King of His People

Psalm 46-47 background notes


1. The believer is safe and secure in the Lord forever. 2. The believer will sing and shout to the Lord forever. practical application

1. Be still and know that God is God. 2. Make a New Year‟s resolution based on Psalm 47! questions 1. What is a likely occasion of Psalm 46?

2. Who would be particularly comforted by Psalm 46?

3. Is the river in Psalm 46:4 only symbolic? 4. How is Psalm 47 categorized? 5. Why is the nation of Israel celebrating in Psalm 47?

answers 1. There is a good possibility that the occasion of Psalm 46 was after God miraculously delivered Jerusalem from the siege of Sennacherib and the Assyrian army in 701BC. At that time, good King Hezekiah and the people of Judah followed the counsel of the prophet Isaiah and trusted the Lord completely for deliverance. God answered with one of the great miracles of the Bible (2 Chronicles 32). 2. This is a wonderful psalm to share with any believers who are fearful concerning their security. This psalm moves from the present to the future and guarantees the safety and security of the believer all the way through. 3. At first we may think this river is only symbolic of the peace of God, because there is no river in Jerusalem. However, since this psalms looks to the future, it could be taken literally because we know from Ezekiel 47 and Zechariah 14 that there will be a life-giving river flowing out of Jerusalem during the future earthly kingdom of our Lord. Also, Revelation 22 speaks of the river with the water of life in the New Jerusalem. 4. Psalm 47 is an enthronement psalm that looks forward to the Lord‟s universal reign over all the earth. 5. Israel is celebrating their future deliverance from oppression of foreign nations when the Lord restores His chosen people to all their inheritance – including the Land of Israel. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 46:10 could be paraphrased, “God is God; I am not.” We can stop striving to look out for ourselves, because we can rest in the Lord. Discuss how this simple truth can be so powerful. 2. Psalm 47 is used in synagogues on Rosh Hashanah (the Hebrew New Year) around the world. What better New Year‟s resolution could you make than to resolve that you in some way will bring praise to the Lord every single day of the year? Make a list now of some of the ways you could do this. challenge All the peoples of the earth will join Israel in celebrating the Lord‟s reign. We know from Revelation 4-5 that our praise of the Lord in His earthly kingdom will merge with our praise of the Lord in eternity. Let‟s start practicing now! memorize “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1 “Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth!” Psalm 46:10 “Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph!” Psalm 47:1 “Sing praises to God, sing praises! Sing praises to our King, sing praises!” Psalm 47:6

Lesson 35

Jerusalem is the Special City that God has Chosen Psalm 48

background notes


1. Jerusalem was chosen by God as His eternal city. 2. Jerusalem was defended by God as His special city. practical application

Tell your children about God‟s guidance. questions 1. Psalm 48 is “a psalm of the sons of Korah.” What does this mean?

2. What was the occasion of this psalm?

3. God‟s deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian army is recorded in three places in the Bible. Can you list them? 4. What is Zion? 5. Why do people always speak of going “up to Jerusalem”?

answers 1. This psalm was written by one of the descendants of Korah, or put to music by the descendants of Korah, or by the choir guild that bore their name 2. This psalm is a celebration of God‟s great victory over the enemy that had attacked Jerusalem. Most likely this was when the Assyrians under King Sennacherib attacked and besieged Jerusalem in 701 BC. In one night, God wiped out the whole Assyrian army that was besieging Jerusalem. 3. 2 Kings 19, 2 Chronicles 32, Isaiah 36-37 4. Zion is another name for the whole area of Jerusalem. 5. Geographically, Jerusalem is a city set on many hills, with valleys all around. Coming from any direction, you will always be traveling “up to Jerusalem.” discuss\ consider

Discuss why it is important to emphasize to your children God‟s plan and guidance in your lives. In what ways is this beneficial? Is it possible to tell your kids too much about your past? Where is the balance between being discreet and testifying of God‟s grace in your life? challenge Jerusalem was chosen by God as His eternal city. The next time you hear of turmoil in the Middle East on the news, remember God‟s ultimate plan for the region. You can praise Him for this! memorize “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in His holy mountain.” Psalm 48:1 “Let Mount Zion rejoice, let the daughters of Judah be glad, because of Your judgments.” Psalm 48:11

Lesson 36

Worldly Riches are Only Temporary, But the Hope of the Righteous is Eternal



1. The present wealth and pomp of the rich is not the whole story. 2. The future reward and glory of the righteous is the rest of the story. practical application

1. You can‟t redeem your brother. 2. Don‟t live for the present! questions 1. Who was this psalm written to?

2. What truth does the psalmist want to convey to his listeners?

3. Why do the righteous not need to fear the unrighteous wealthy people? 4. How is this psalm similar to the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus in Luke 16? 5. What does it mean when we say, “You can‟t redeem your brother”?

answers 1. Rich people, poor people, socially elite people, bottom rung people – all inhabitants of the world (verse 1). This includes all people today! 2. He wants to speak of wealth and the earthly power and glory that usually accompany wealth. While it looks like the rich and powerful have it made, that is not the whole story. 3. All the wealth and power of these people is limited, both in extent and time. Their money can‟t buy everything, and material wealth is only temporary. 4. Before death, the unbelieving rich man lived like a king and Lazarus had nothing but faith. After death a great reversal took place; the unbelieving rich man was in torment while Lazarus was with the Lord. Verse 14 of this psalm speaks of the same reversal. 5. The context of these verses is not eternal life, but physical life. You can‟t buy an escape from eventual death, which comes to us all. You can‟t buy your way out of dying – for yourself or your brother. discuss\ consider

1. “The rich and powerful live with the illusion of immortality.” Discuss what this means. Also discuss how the wealthy are like animals which perish (verse 12). 2. After reading a psalm like this it‟s easy to think that being wealthy is a bad thing. Is this what the psalm is teaching? If God has blessed you financially, what should your attitude be toward your wealth? challenge As believers we must live in the present, but we should not live for the present. You can‟t take your money, fame, or power with you when you die. But the money, time, and talent you give to the Lord now will result in eternal reward for you in the future. In that way, you can take it with you! memorize “My mouth shall speak wisdom, and the meditation of my heart shall give understanding.” Psalm 49:3 “But God will redeem my soul from the power of the grave, for He shall receive me.” Psalm 49:15

Lesson 37

God Indicts His People for their Hypocrisy Psalm 50

background notes


1. God is against insincere sacrifices. 2. God is against unethical practices. practical application

1. Expect God‟s judgment to begin in-house. 2. What do you have that you did not receive? questions 1. Who was Asaph?

2. Why should we not be concerned, as some are, that verse 1 of this psalm is “scientifically inaccurate”?

3. Who is the defendant in this cosmic court case? 4. What is God‟s first indictment against His people? 5. What is God‟s second indictment against His people?

answers 1. Asaph, the author of this psalm, was one of King David‟s musicians who was put in charge of the ministry of music in the Temple (1 Chronicles 16:5). He also wrote Psalms 73-83. 2. The rising of the sun and setting of the sun are figurative language for “from the east to the west.” We use this kind of language all the time. The Bible does contain figurative language. 3. The defendant in this case is God‟s people Israel. All of heaven and earth are called on as witness to the fact that Israel has broken its covenant with the Lord. There was no question that this case would be settled justly because God Himself, Who is omniscient, is the Judge. All of heaven testifies to His righteousness. 4. They had the wrong motives when they brought their sacrifices and offerings before the Lord. God does not reprimand them for bringing sacrifices, because that was commanded in God‟s Law, but they are rebuked for just going through the motions and thinking that they had fulfilled their obligation to God. 5. They were giving lip service to God‟s laws, but hating and breaking His commandments at the same time. discuss\ consider

1. In what ways do people today just go through the motions of worship? God does not need our gifts and offerings. Discuss then what He does want from us:

1. Gratitude 2. For us to make good on our promises 3. Fellowship

2. According to Psalm 50, the people thought that God was unconcerned with their sins because He didn‟t judge them immediately. Do believers today sometimes think they are getting away with their sins? As believers, our sins are eternally forgiven, but there are still consequences for our decisions. challenge When we give to the Lord we are just returning what He has given us! This includes material possessions, natural talents, spiritual gifts, time – everything. Are you returning what belongs to the Lord? memorize “The Mighty one, God the LORD, has spoken and called the earth from the rising of the sun to its going down.” Psalm 50:1 “Let the heavens declare His righteousness, for God Himself is Judge.” Psalm 50:6

Lesson 38

David Confesses His Great Sin and Pleads for Mercy, Cleansing, and Restoration



1. Unconfessed sin in a believer‟s life results in guilt and broken fellowship. 2. Confessed sin in a believer‟s life results in joy and restored fellowship. practical application

You can‟t sin in a vacuum. questions 1. What is the occasion for this penitential psalm?

2. How did Nathan confront David? What was David‟s response?

3. Is verse 5 in this psalm saying that sex in marriage is sinful?

4. Should believers today pray as David did in verse 11? 5. Explain the reference to hyssop in verse 7. 6. What do the last two verses of this psalm, regarding the prosperity and blessing of Jerusalem have to do with David‟s confession of sin?

answers 1. This psalm was written after the prophet Nathan confronted King David for his great sins of adultery and murder (2 Samuel 11-12). 2. Nathan confronted David with a story of a rich man who had many flocks and herds, but took a poor man‟s one lamb in order to provide a meal for a traveler. David determined that this rich man should make restoration fourfold. When Nathan told David, “Thou are the man,” David did not try to justify or hide his sins any longer. 3. No, David is speaking here of the sinful nature that everyone possesses from the time of conception. We don‟t become sinners when we sin. We sin because we are sinners by nature. 4. In light of the further revelation of New Testament teaching, believers today do not need to pray this prayer, because we are assured of our eternal security. We have the Holy Spirit indwelling us permanently. Ephesians 1:13 says we are “sealed with the Holy Spirit.” 5. Hyssop refers to the branches of a plant that was used for applying the blood of the sacrifice. It was also used in the ceremonial cleansing of unclean leapers and in the purification from defilement associated with death. David realized how separated he was from the Lord and how desperately he needed to be cleansed in order for fellowship to be restored. 6. Prophetically, when restored Israel of the future confesses their sin of spiritual adultery and rejection of their Messiah, the Lord will forgive hem and establish His earthly kingdom of blessing from His throne in Jerusalem. Practically, David realized that as a king his sin affected the nation. discuss\ consider

1. As believers, our salvation is secure, but it is possible for us to grieve the Holy Spirit with our sins. Our fellowship with the Lord is disrupted when we have unconfessed sin in our life. What has your experience been when you had unconfessed sin? How did you feel once you confessed it? See 1 John 1:9 in this connection. 2. Unconfessed sin breaks our fellowship with the Lord. Likewise, our unconfessed offenses against fellow believers break our fellowship with them. Do you have broken fellowship with one of your brothers or sisters in Christ? Will you go to them and do your part to be restored? challenge You can‟t sin in a vacuum. This means all our sin affects others somehow. It may seem you “get away with it” for awhile, but the consequences of sin are sure. How is your sin affecting your family, friends, and fellowship with God? memorize “Against You, You only, have I sinned, and done this evil in Your sight.” Psalm 51:4 “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean; wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7 “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit.” Psalm 51:10-12

Lesson 39

The Character and Destiny of the Wicked Contrasted with the Righteous



1. The destiny of the wicked is final destruction. 2. The destiny of the righteous is future delight. practical application

He who laughs last, laughs best. questions 1. What was the occasion of Psalm 52?

2. What terrible tragedy occurred at the hand of wicked Doeg the Edomite?

3. Does this psalm have further application? 4. List the four characteristics of the wicked from this psalm. 5. What does it mean that the wicked are destroyed forever (verse 5)? 6. What did David mean by referring to himself as “a green olive tree in the house of God”?

answers 1. “When Doeg the Edomite went and told Saul, and said to him, „David has gone to the house of Ahimelech‟” (verse 1). We read of this account of David‟s escape from Saul in 1 Samuel 21-22. 2. He put to death 85 priests and their families for their role in hiding David from Saul. 3. Doeg the Edomite is the wicked man specifically referred to in this psalm. But in application, the psalm describes the character and destiny of all the wicked, including “the man of sin” of the end times, who may be typified by wicked Doeg. 4. 1) They boast in evil. 2) Their talk is filled with lies and deceit, and they use their tongue like a razor to cut people down. 3) They love evil more than good and falsehood more than truth. 4) They love to destroy. 5. This is not the idea of annihilation or ceasing to exist. It is the idea of eternal ruin and loss. Not loss of being, but loss of well-being. Revelation 20 calls this destiny the second death in the lake of fire. 6. Olive trees are productive, attractive, and live long. What a contrast to the wicked who are uprooted and unfruitful. discuss\ consider

1. One characteristic of the wicked is that they boast in evil. They not only practice evil – they boast in their evil ways. Where have you see examples of this? 2. Psalm 52:9 teaches that the righteous will enjoy fellowship with the Lord and His people both now and forever. Recall the sweetest time of fellowship you have ever experienced. Imagine how many times greater heaven will be. challenge In the future, the righteous will laugh at the wicked, because God is vindicated. When it seems to you like someone is getting away with their wickedness, try to take a long-term perspective. The righteous have the last laugh. memorize “Why do you boast in evil, O mighty man? The goodness of God endures continually.” Psalm 52:1 “I will praise You forever, because You have done it; and in the presence of Your saints I will wait on Your name, for it is good.” Psalm 52:9

Lesson 40

David Longs for the Establishment of God’s Kingdom and the Elimination of Evildoers &

David is Confident of God’s deliverance and the Elimination of Persecutors



1. God will remove sinners and establish His kingdom. 2. God will remove persecutors and deliver His people. practical application

1. Remember, we live in glass houses. 2. What kind of name do you have? questions 1. Why might Psalm 53 sound familiar?

2. What is the difference between Yahweh and Elohim, two names of God used in Psalms 14 and 53?

3. What was the occasion of Psalm 54? 4. Was David calling for personal revenge here? 5. What sacrifice was David looking forward to in Psalm 54:6-7?

answers 1. Psalm 53 is almost identical to Psalm 14. Paul also quoted Psalm 53:1-3 in Romans 3. 2. Yahweh, which is translated Jehovah or LORD is the name for God who keeps His covenant with His people. Elohim is the name of God meaning Almighty, sovereign God who created, sustains, and governs the universe. 3. This psalm was written when the Ziphites went to Saul and betrayed David. We read about this account in 1 Samuel 23. At some point during this crisis, David found time to contemplate and write this personal lament psalm. 4. No, he was calling for God‟s justice. These were evildoers. David was in the right and the punishment of these persecutors would vindicate David and maintain God‟s justice. 5. David anticipates bringing the peace offering of Leviticus 3 as a thank offering to the Lord when he was free to visit the Tabernacle once again. There David would thank the Lord for delivering him and for bringing all his enemies to justice. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 53 is quoted in Romans 3 to show that the entire world is guilty and falls short of God‟s moral standards – including even so-called “good” people. Do you know anyone who believes that man is inherently good? What do you think is the motivation behind this kind of thinking? How can it be disputed? 2. Read Romans 12:19. The Lord will vindicate us when we are in the right. We don‟t have to take our own revenge; the Lord will do it for us. This is a difficult principle to live out. Discuss some practical ways to leave revenge to God. challenge When David asked God to save him by His name, he was referring to all that God‟s name represented and all He had done. When your name is mentioned, what is the response and reaction from the people who know you? Your name stands for all that you are and all that you do. What kind of name do you have? memorize “The fool has said in his heart, „There is no God.‟” Psalm 53:1 “Oh, that the salvation of Israel would come out of Zion! When God brings back the captivity of His people, let Jacob rejoice and Israel be glad.” Psalm 53:6 “Hear my prayer, O God; Give ear to the words of my mouth.” Psalm 54:2

Lesson 41

David’s Close Friend Betrays Him Psalm 55

background notes


1. David‟s betrayal by a close friend has practical implications. 2. David‟s betrayal by a close friend has prophetic implications. practical application

We can fly away! questions 1. What was the possible occasion for Psalm 55?

2. What right move did David make after his friend betrayed him?

3. What do verses 9-11 tell us about the result of this betrayal? 4. How do we know that the one who betrayed David was at one time very close to him? 5. David‟s betrayal by a close friend, probably Ahithophel, looks ahead prophetically to whose betrayal of the Lord Jesus?

answers 1. The context of this psalm concerns the betrayal of David by a close friend. One likely occasion is when Ahithophel, his trusted counselor, betrayed David at the time of Absalom‟s rebellion. Ahithophel went over to Absalom‟s side and counseled Absalom against David. See 2 Samuel 15-17. 2. He brought the matter to the Lord in prayer. 3. This betrayal of the king resulted in a breakdown of government in Jerusalem. 4. Verses 12-14 show that they had fellowship together and worshipped in the house of the Lord together. 5. Judas discuss\ consider

1. David longed to fly away from the painful situation of his friend‟s betrayal, like a bird flies away from a storm (verse 6). Can you identify with David at this point? How can you practically apply some of the actions David took instead? 2. Discuss some of the parallels between David‟s betrayal by his close friend and our Lord‟s betrayal by Judas. Have you ever been betrayed by a friend? Recognize that you can take those feelings to the Lord, because He has felt that hurt as well! challenge It‟s not good to run away from your problems – but you fly away! There is a quiet place, a place of refuge near the heart of God, when we turn to Him in the midst of our troubles. memorize “My heart is severely pained within me, and the terrors of death have fallen upon me.” Psalm 55:4 “Cast your burden on the LORD, and He shall sustain you; He shall never permit the righteous to be moved.” Psalm 55:22

Lesson 42

David Acknowledges that God is his Security and God Remembers his Sorrows



1. The Lord provides the security for His people. 2. The Lord remembers the sorrows of His people. practical application

1. Remember to pay your vows. 2. When you are afraid, follow the Biblical Road to Courage. 3. Let us keep “In God we trust” on our money! questions 1. What is a Michtam (verse 1)?

2. What danger was David experiencing in this psalm?

3. How does Matthew 10:28 relate to this psalm? 4. Explain the reference to tears in a bottle in verse 8. 5. What are the three steps on the “Road to Courage”?

answers 1. Psalms 56-60 all have “A Michtam of David” in their titles. We don‟t know for sure what this means, but it seems the word is derived from a word associated with covering. This may indicate David‟s acknowledgment of God‟s covering of protection throughout the dangers mentioned in these psalms. 2. The Philistines had seized him or captured him in Gath – one of the Philistine cities where David had fled to escape from King Saul, who was out to kill David. See 1 Samuel 21-22. 3. Those against us may do a lot to hurt us, but it is only as God allows. Remember, we are immortal until our work on earth is finished. It is more important to fear God than man. 4. Tear bottles have been found by archeologists in the land of Israel dating to biblical times. Catching and collecting some of your tears in these small tear bottles during times of sorrow gave more meaning to your sorrow. It was a time to be remembered. David wanted the Lord to remember his times of sorrow. 5. 1) Practice the presence of the Lord, by talking to Him in prayer. 2) Trust the Lord completely. 3) Praise the Lord for His promises. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss a time when you have experienced oppression from people who are out to hurt you in some way. Was this a result of jealousy, or even because of a mistake you made? What did you do in this time of trial and oppression? What might you do differently now? 2. The Lord remembers our sorrows. Have you ever been in pain, and it seemed other people did not recognize or sympathize as you wanted them to? You can be sure that the Lord always sees your sorrows and He remembers them. challenge Did you ever promise God that you would do something for Him if He delivered you from some kind of problem? Remember to pay your vows! memorize “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You.” Psalms 56:3 “In God I have put my trust; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Psalms 56:11

Lesson 43

The Believer is Protected by the Sheltering Wings of God & by the Perfect Righteousness of God



1. The believer is protected from the lions by the wings of God. 2. The believer is protected from the lions by the righteousness of God. practical application

1. Don‟t lose sight of the greater goal. 2. It‟s OK to pray Psalm 58 in context. questions 1. What is the common theme of Psalms 56-60? What was the specific occasion of Psalm 57?

2. Who were the lions David refers to in verse 4?

3. What is the greatest goal in David‟s mind? 4. Explain the wide variety of translations for Psalm 58:1. 5. Explain the phrase, “He shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked,” in verse 10.

answers 1. All five of these psalms address God‟s protection of David in various circumstances of danger. The occasion of Psalm 57 was when David fled from King Saul, and hid in a cave. 2. They are David‟s enemies who are literally trying to harm him with spears, arrows, and swords. They are even trying to trap David as a wild animal with nets and pits. 3. The glory of God, more important than even his protection and deliverance 4. The Hebrew word used here can be translated gods, or in reference to people it can be translated mighty ones or rulers. In the context here it seems to refer to the unrighteous judges in Israel. They actually planned out their unjust rulings. 5. David is confident that the Lord will subdue the wicked judges as in a military victory where the victors walked in the blood of the conquered foe. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 57:1 paints a beautiful picture of refuge – sitting securely under the wings of God. Has there been a time in your life when you have felt this security? How did it affect the way you went through your trial? 2. As believers, how should we pray for our enemies? Psalm 58 is a major contrast to Matthew 5:44. Discuss the difference between enemies who attack us personally, and rulers who purposely plan and carry out unrighteous and wicked acts that blaspheme God and make a mockery out of what is just and right. challenge The next time you feel under attack, will you turn to the Lord for protection? memorize “Be exalted, O God, above the heavens; let Your glory be above all the earth.” Psalms 57:5 “I will praise You, O Lord, among the peoples; I will sing to You among the nations. For Your mercy reaches unto the heavens, and Your truth unto the clouds.” Psalms 57:9-10 “The righteous shall rejoice when he sees the vengeance; he shall wash his feet in the blood of the wicked, so that men will say, „Surely there is a reward for the righteous; surely He is God who judges in the earth.‟” Psalms 58:10-11

Lesson 44

David Under Siege in His own House Psalm 59

background notes


1. David‟s experience in Psalm 59 is a primary source. 2. David‟s experience in Psalm 59 has a prophetic significance. practical application

Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord! questions 1. What was the occasion for Psalm 59?

2. What do we mean when we say that David‟s experience in Psalm 59 is a primary source?

3. How does David expand his viewpoint in verse 5? 4. How does David‟s experience here foreshadow the experience of his greater Son, the Lord Jesus? 5. David‟s experience of persecution is also prophetic of what other group?

answers 1. This psalm describes the time when King Saul sent men to watch the house of David to make sure that David did not escape. See 1 Samuel 19. 2. We mean that this experience was written by David himself, as he was going through this trial. It was not a later secondary account written by a historian recounting the experience of David. 3. David goes beyond his own situation of siege to the nations as a whole, and calls on the Lord to punish all the hostile foreign nations. 4. King Saul‟s assassins surrounding David like wild dogs remind us of our Lord‟s experience on the cross as prophesied in Psalm 22:16. David‟s experience of being under attack by his own countrymen also portrays the coming rejection of the Messiah by His own people (John 1:11). 5. The godly Jewish remnant during the coming Tribulation Period of the last days discuss\ consider

1. David, in the midst of all this distress, could sing of God‟s love in the morning, after a peaceful night‟s rest in the stronghold and refuge of God. Can you remember a time when you were distressed, but God gave you peace to sleep? Ask God for this the next time slumber escapes you. 2. The next time you feel betrayed by a friend, think of the Lord Jesus. It is comforting to remember that He also experienced betrayal, so He can sympathize with your feelings. Read Hebrews 4:15 in this connection. challenge When the Children of Israel were fearful of the oncoming Egyptians, Moses told them to stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. David expresses a similar idea in Psalm 59:9. We too can be sure that the Lord will take action when we are under any kind of attack from the enemy. Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord! memorize “Deliver me from my enemies, O my God; defend me from those who rise up against me. Deliver me from the workers of iniquity, and save me from bloodthirsty men.” Psalms 59:1-2 “I will wait for You, O You his Strength; for God is my defense.” Psalms 59:9 “But I will sing of Your power; yes, I will sing aloud of Your mercy in the morning; for You have been my defense and refuge in the day of my trouble.” Psalms 59:16

Lesson 45

Trusting the Lord when Facing Temporary Setbacks Psalm 60

background notes


1. God allows temporary setbacks. 2. God promises overwhelming victory. 3. God bestows valued faith. practical application

How do you handle temporary setbacks? questions 1. What was David‟s purpose in writing this psalm?

2. What temporary setback was David experiencing in this psalm?

3. Why do 2 Samuel 8, 1 Chronicles 18, and Psalm 60 give apparently contradictory credit for the victory against the Edomites? 4. Explain the oracles pronounced against Moab and Edom in verse 8. 5. Who would lead the Israelites in victory over the Edomites?

answers 1. David wrote this psalm to teach God‟s people to trust the Lord for His protection in times of threat and temporary setback. 2. According to the title, David‟s armies were fighting battles on three fronts. Apparently while David was fighting in the north of Israel, the Edomites took advantage of the situation and invaded Israel in the south. This setback put the nation in a predicament as we see in verses 1-5. General Joab and his brother Abishai were sent to deal with the Edomites and returned victorious (see 2 Samuel 8, 1 Kings 11, and 1 Chronicles 18). 3. The fact that David, Abishai, and Joab are given credit in the various accounts respectively is no contradiction when you consider the military chain of command. All are given credit as it should be – David, the king, General Joab, the leader of the armed forces, and Abishai the field commander. 4. The idea of Moab as God‟s wash basin and Edom under God‟s shoe is that these countries would be reduced to servant states under Israel, God‟s people. 5. It was God who allowed the temporary setback and it is God who will lead Israel and bring them victory. discuss\ consider

1. David recognized that God had allowed a temporary setback in the battle with his enemies. God allows temporary setbacks in our lives today to teach us patience, humility, dependence, or for discipline. Recall a time when you have experienced a setback in your life. What was the purpose in the end? 2. David was confident that Israel would not only be victorious, but they would be valiant in victory – that is brave and having valor. As Christians we are involved in spiritual warfare. Discuss how the Lord gives us victory in spiritual battles. Have you experienced this victory valiantly? challenge When you face a temporary setback do you quit or press on? The next time you face a setback, remember that God has promised overwhelming victory, if you will rely on Him. memorize “O God, You have cast us off; You have broken us down; You have been displeased; Oh, restore us again!” Psalms 60:1 “Give us help from trouble, for the help of man is useless.” Psalms 60:11

Lesson 46

Security for the Believer is Found in the Lord Psalm 61 & 62

background notes


1. In God the believer finds security. 2. Only in God the believer finds security. practical application

1. Don‟t miss the Messiah. 2. Wait in silence! questions 1. What was David‟s condition when he wrote Psalm 61?

2. List the four illustrations in Psalm 61 that convey the great and complete security for the believer whose trust is in the Lord. 3. Where do we see the Messiah mentioned in Psalm 61? 4. What is the theme of Psalm 62? 5. Explain the illustration of the balance scale in Psalm 62.

answers 1. David was physically and emotionally exhausted. He cried out to the Lord from the ends of the earth, as it were, where humanly speaking he is at the end of his rope. 2. 1) The rock that is higher than I 2) Tower of strength 3) The Lord‟s tent 4) The shelter of the Lord‟s wings 3. In verses 6-7 David moves from the first person, I and me, to the third person, He and Him. Under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit David was looking beyond himself to his greater Son, the Messiah. The Lord Jesus Christ will be enthroned forever! 4. Like Psalm 61, the theme of Psalm 62 is the security of the believer. Here the emphasis is on God as the believer‟s only source of security. 5. On one side of the balance you put vapor, on the other side you put things that people often trust in for security. These sources of security are so futile that the vapor weighs more! Truly everything we need is found in God alone. discuss\ consider

1. Review the illustrations used in Psalm 61 that ensure those whose trust is in the Lord they have great and complete security. Which speaks to you most personally? 2. Psalm 62:9-10 is a great word picture describing how futile it is to put your hope or confidence in anything or anyone other than the Lord. Discuss the fives things listed that people often trust in for security: other people, positions of power, oppression, robbery, and riches. Which of these do you find yourself trusting in? What is our only true object of security? challenge David was not only willing to wait for God, but he waited in silence. While you wait for God do you complain and tell God what He should do? Be more like David and wait in silence. memorize “Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” Psalms 61:2 “He only is my rock and my salvation; He is my defense; I shall not be moved. In God is my salvation and my glory; the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in God.” Psalms 62:6-7

Lesson 47

The Believer’s Thirst for God is Satisfied & God’s Righteous Judgment Vindicates the Believer



1. Remembering and meditating bring refreshment and motivation. 2. God‟s righteous judgment brings positive results. practical application

1. Can you say, “Oh my God”? 2. Let‟s glory in God and not gloat! questions 1. What evidence implies that Psalm 63 was written while David was escaping from Jerusalem at the time of Absalom‟s revolt? 2. What was David‟s physical condition in the wilderness? What was his response?

3. What was David thinking about during the night in the Judean Wilderness? 4. What should be our response when we observe God‟s righteous judgment take place?

answers 1. Verse 11 seems to imply that David was already the crowned king. Verse 2 seems to indicate that the Ark of the Covenant was already installed in Jerusalem in a tent that David had set up for it before the Temple was built. 2. David was physically exhausted and in need of food and water. He was in need of protection for himself and the people who were with him. He turned to the Lord and found refreshment of soul, which at this point was of critical importance. 3. David remembered and meditated on the things of the Lord when he lay awake at night. He remembered the times of worship in the Lord‟s house back in Jerusalem. He meditated with joy on the Lord‟s promises of help, protection, and security. 4. We should not gloat, but we can glory in God (Psalm 64:10). discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 63 can be a wonderful psalm of personal mediation. Read aloud the first phrase, “O God, You are my God,” several times, putting the emphasis on a different word each time. How could this exercise help you express various emotions in your prayer to God? 2. Discuss the positive results from Psalm 64:9-10 that come from God‟s righteous judgment: 1) People see the results and they have a more reverential fear of God. 2) Those who see these things tell others that this is the activity of God. 3) The righteous rejoice in the Lord. 4) The righteous renew their trust in the Lord. challenge When it seems your enemies are shooting at you with poisonous arrows, remember that God has ways of making the strategy and tactics of the enemy backfire, resulting in their own defeat. Let God have the last word. memorize “O God, You are my God; Early will I seek You; My soul thirsts for You; My flesh longs for You in a dry and thirsty land where there is no water. So I have looked for You in the sanctuary, to see Your power and Your glory.” Psalms 63:1-2 “Because Your lovingkindness is better than life, My lips shall praise You.” Psalms 63:3 “The righteous shall be glad in the LORD, and trust in Him. And all the upright in heart shall glory.” Psalms 64:10

Lesson 48

A Communal Psalm of Thanksgiving Psalm 65

background notes


1. The Lord will be magnified as Savior and Redeemer. 2. The Lord will be magnified as Creator and Provider. practical application

Take time to worship the Lord in silence! questions 1. What is the common theme of Psalms 65-68?

2. What is the specific topic of Psalm 65?

3. During which Old Testament feast was Psalm 65 possibly sung? 4. How will verses 1-5, magnifying the Lord as Savior and Redeemer, be applied in the future millennial kingdom?

answers 1. These four psalms are all called “songs” in their titles, because they were meant to be sung in worship. They all look forward to restoration and rest for Israel. 2. In this communal song of thanksgiving the Lord is magnified for His blessing of salvation and His blessing of provision in a bountiful land. Thus Psalm 65 could be called a harvest song. 3. The annual Feast of Firstfruits 4. In that day, restored Israel will fulfill their vows of worship in Zion (Jerusalem) where the Millennial Temple will be. This prayer and praise will not be only from restored Israel, but from all nations who are part of our Lord‟s earthly kingdom. discuss\ consider

1. As Old Testament believers sang Psalm 65 they remembered the Lord as their Savior before praising Him as their Provider. Write your own prayer following this pattern and then share it with someone. 2. The second half of Psalm 65 praises the Lord for His creation and provision. If your days are mostly spent inside, make time this week to enjoy a bit of God‟s creation. Discuss a time you were struck by God‟s creative power and inspired to worship Him. challenge Do you take time to worship the Lord in silence? Look for small opportunities to begin this practice this week. memorize “Praise is awaiting You, O God, in Zion; and to You the vow shall be performed.” Psalm 65:1 “You visit the earth and water it, You greatly enrich it; The river of God is full of water; You provide their grain, for so You have prepared it.” Psalm 65:9

Lesson 49

Israel Exhorts all the Nations to bring Praise to the Lord Psalms 66 & 67

background notes


1. In the future, Israel will be the chosen people they were meant to be. 2. In the future, Israel will be a channel of blessing to all people. practical application

1. Be careful about bargaining with God. 2. Learn the secret for getting your prayers heard. 2. Be a channel of blessing! questions 1. What was God‟s purpose in choosing Israel?

2. When will Israel be restored to her purposeful role?

3. What miracles are referred to in Psalm 66:6? 4. What type of psalm is Psalm 67? 5. Why had this psalm been called “Israel‟s missionary psalm”?

answers 1. For them to be a kingdom of priests and a nation that was a light to all the other nations 2. During the earthly kingdom of our Lord, which follows the future Tribulation Period, Israel will lead the nations of the earth in worship and praise to the Lord for His wonderful works. 3. The crossing of the Red Sea at the Exodus and the drying up of the Jordan River 4. Like Psalm 66, Psalm 67 is a thanksgiving song. It was meant to be put to music and used in worship. 5. In this psalm Israel prays for God‟s blessing so that they can be a witness to the nations of God‟s salvation. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss why Psalm 66:4 and innumerable other scriptures require that God‟s promises be fulfilled in a literally, political, earthly kingdom. 2. We see in Psalm 67 that restored Israel will be a channel of blessing to the whole earth in the future. Israel prays that this will be so. Have you ever prayed to e a channel of blessing for others? We pray for blessing on ourselves and our families, but what would it look like for you to be a channel of blessing to others? challenge According to Psalm 66:16-20, the secret to getting your prayers heard is a pure heart. The Lord will not listen to your prayers if you‟re hiding some sin in your heart. Confess to God and He will give you a pure heart and hear your prayers. memorize “Make a joyful shout to God, all the earth! Sing out the honor of His name; make His praise glorious.” Psalm 66:1-2 “Come and hear, all you who fear God, and I will declare what He has done for my soul.” Psalm 66:16 “God be merciful to us and bless us, and cause His face to shine upon us.” Psalm 67:1

Lesson 50

Celebrating Israel’s Travels & Anticipating the Lord’s Ascension and Second Coming



1. Psalm 68 celebrates the travel and arrival of the Ark of the Covenant. 2. Psalm 68 anticipates the ascension and Second Advent of the Lord of Glory. practical application

Let‟s use God‟s names in worship. questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 68?

2. For what special occasion was Psalm 68 possibly written?

3. Psalm 68:1 refers to what other Old Testament verse?

4. Explain verses 15-18. 5. How do we know that Psalm 68 has prophetic and Messianic implications?

answers 1. Psalm 8 is a victory marching song, which would be sung on the occasion of Israel‟s special celebrations of triumph. 2. There is a good possibility that David composed this psalm for the occasion of bringing the Ark of the Covenant up to Jerusalem. 3. This is almost certainly a reference to the words of Moses in Numbers 10:35 when the Ark of the Covenant set out from Mount Sinai with the Children of Israel. 4. These verses describe the capture of Jerusalem by David. In highly figurative language the mountain range of Bashan that is majestic Mt. Hermon, looks with jealousy on Mt. Zion of Jerusalem. The Lord has chosen this mountain for His dwelling place. With the capture of Jerusalem, the march of God from Sinai to Zion is complete. 5. Because the Apostle Paul quotes Psalm 68:18 in Ephesians 4:8 in reference to the ascension of Christ discuss\ consider

1. Reread Psalm 68:28-35. Discuss how these verses of praise not only celebrate the arrival of the Ark of the Covenant in Jerusalem in David‟s day, but also anticipate the Second Advent of Christ. 2. Seven names of God are woven into the fabric of Psalm 68. Read the psalm looking for these names and discuss the significance of each.

Elohim

Yahweh or Jehovah

Yah

El Shaddai

Yah Elohim

Adonai

Yahweh Adonai challenge In Psalm 68:18 the Lord is seen ascending Mt Zion to dwell in the midst of His people in Jerusalem. What a mighty God we serve! memorize “Sing to God, sing praises to His name; extol Him who rides on the clouds, by His name YAH, and rejoice before Him.” Psalm 68:4 “You have ascended on high; You have led captivity captive; You have received gifts among men.” Psalm 68:18 “O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places. The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people. Blessed be God!” Psalm 68:35

Lesson 51

David’s Persecution, Prayer, and Praise are Prophetic Psalm 69

background notes


1. David‟s persecution in Psalm 69 is typical of Christ‟s suffering. 2. David‟s prayer in Psalm 69 is harmonious with New Testament teaching. 3. David‟s praise in Psalm 69 is prophetic of millennial blessings. practical application

Let God determine the acceptable time! questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 69?

2. Where in the New Testament do we see Christ relating to David‟s experience of persecution?

3. David‟s prayer in verses 22-28 can sound shocking to our modern ears. Is this a valid way to pray? 4. Which of these imprecatory verses are quoted in the New Testament? 5. Where does Psalm 69:9 show up again in the New Testament?

answers 1. Psalm 69 is a typical Messianic psalm. David was writing about his own experiences, but under the sovereignty of God they became typical of what the coming Messiah would go through. 2. In John 15:25, the Lord quoted Psalm 69:4 in reference to His mistreatment by the Jews, “They hated Me without cause.” 3. Of course. In this imprecatory prayer David is not out for personal revenge, rather he desires God‟s righteous standards to be maintained. David calls down God‟s judgment on his enemies. 4. The Apostle Paul quotes verses 22 and 23 in Romans 11:9-10. He applies these verses to the Jewish people who had rejected their Messiah. 5. The first part of verse 9 is fulfilled when the Lord cast the money changers out of the Temple (John 2:17). The last part is quoted in Romans 15:3. discuss\ consider

1. Both David and the Lord Jesus demonstrated long-suffering under persecution. Discuss the difference between suffering for the Lord‟s sake and suffering for your own stupidity‟s sake. Recall a time when you thought you were being long-suffering, when you were actually suffering the consequences of your own bad choices. 2. Read Psalm 69:29-36. Discuss how these verses of praise look forward to the blessings of the millennial kingdom that our Lord will establish on this earth. challenge Although David was suffering intense persecution and very much in need of help, he did not demand help from the Lord, but requests it in God‟s acceptable time (verse 13). God‟s timing is often different than our own. Are you willing to let God determine the acceptable time? memorize “Draw near to my soul, and redeem it; Deliver me because of my enemies. You know my reproach, my shame, and my dishonor.” Psalm 69:18-19 “Reproach has broken my heart, and I am full of heaviness; I looked for someone to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none.” Psalm 69:20 “The humble shall see this and be glad; and you who seek God, your hearts shall live.” Psalm 69:32

Lesson 52

An Urgent Prayer Requesting the Lord’s Immediate Help & Confidence that the Lord will Help a Believer in Old Age



1. Urgency in prayer is not a sin. 2. The Lord is sufficient for the fears of old age. practical application

When you are old, speak to the young! questions 1. Why might Psalm 70 look familiar to you?

2. What was David‟s main concern in the midst of this intense circumstance?

3. Describe the life of the psalmist in Psalm 71. 4. What was one of the keys given for experiencing the Lord‟s sufficiency through the fears of old age? 5. What other key do we see in verses 17-21?

answers 1. This psalm is almost identical to the last five verses of Psalm 40. Only a few words are different. 2. David‟s main concern was that the Lord be magnified (verse 4). 3. The psalmist was a committed believer who had come to know the Lord at an early age. Now in his old age some new fears arise. Some wrongdoers and adversaries wanted to bring him down. They were even saying that God had forsaken him in his old age- now that his natural strength was failing. 4. Continuing to praise the Lord for who He is and how He is blessing us 5. These verses encourage us to remember God‟s help and deliverance in the past. God is the same, even as we age! discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the balance between being concerned about an urgent need and waiting patiently for the Lord‟s answer. When have you had to strike this balance in your prayer life? Urgency in prayer is not a sin but demanding that God act immediately on our terms is a sin. 2. Discuss some of the fears of old age given and think of your own. How will you call on the Lord for help with these fears? challenge In his old age, the psalmist wanted to share the goodness of God with the younger generation. This is a wonderful desire! When you are old, speak to the young! When you are young, take time to hear. memorize “But I am poor and needy; Make haste to me, O God! You are my help and my deliverer; O LORD, do not delay.” Psalm 70:5 “Do not cast me off in the time of old age; do not forsake me when my strength fails. For my enemies speak against me; and those who lie in wait for my life take counsel together, saying, „God has forsaken him; Pursue and take him, for there is none to deliver him.‟” Psalm 71:9-11 “Now also when I am old and grayheaded, O God, do not forsake me, until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to everyone who is to come.” Psalm 71:18

Lesson 53

The King Prays that the Lord will Bless and Expand His Kingdom in Righteousness and Peace



1. Psalm 72 expresses Solomon‟s desire for a worldwide kingdom of righteousness and peace. 2. Psalm 72 envisions Christ‟s delight in His worldwide kingdom of righteousness and peace. practical application

Use Psalm 72 as a model prayer for our nation. questions 1. How is the book of Psalms organized?

2. Who was the author of Psalm 72? What is the theme?

3. How did Solomon become such a wise king? 4. Was it prideful of Solomon to pray for universal dominion in verses 8-11? 5. Who was the greatest descendant of David and Solomon?

answers 1. The entire book of Psalms was originally arranged in five sub-books. Book 2 includes Psalms 42-72. Chapter 72 concludes the section with a doxology and editorial note. 2. Psalm 72 was written by King Solomon. The theme is God‟s just and righteous rule over the earth. It is a prayer by King Solomon that God would bless and expand his kingdom in righteousness and peace. 3. Early in Solomon‟s reign the Lord offered him anything he asked for as the new king. Rather than ask for riches, wealth, honor, victory, or long life, Solomon asked for wisdom. God granted his request and gave him the other things as well. See 2 Chronicles 1:7-12. 4. This is actually a request that the righteousness and peace of the one true God be expanded to all the nations for the Lord‟s glory. 5. The Lord Himself discuss\ consider

1. Solomon prayed for his reign to be characterized by righteousness, by peace, and by compassion. While you do not have a kingdom to rule over, each of us does have a sphere of influence. What would it look like if your “reign” had the above characteristics? 2. 1 Timothy 2:2 encourages us to pray “for kings and all who are in authority.” Read through Psalm 72 and show how it could be used as a model prayer for our nation. challenge Psalm 72 is the prayer of a wise young king. The Lord is willing to grant wisdom to all who ask for it. What will you request from the Lord? memorize “He will bring justice to the poor of the people; He will save the children of the needy, and will break in pieces the oppressor.” Psalm 72:4 “His name shall endure forever; His name shall continue as long as the sun. And men shall be blessed in Him; all nations shall call Him blessed. Blessed be the LORD God, the God of Israel, Who only does wondrous things!” Psalm 72:17-18

Lesson 54

Why does God allow the Wicked to Prosper Psalm 73

background notes


1. The prosperity of the wicked confuses the saint. 2. The destiny of the wicked clarifies the situation. practical application

Be careful what you share with those who are younger in the faith. questions 1. Who was Asaph?

2. What was Asaph‟s key question here?

3. Why had Asaph almost stumbled in his walk as a believer? 4. What is a theodicy? 5. What was Asaph‟s perspective by the time we come to verses 27-28?

answers 1. Asaph, the author of Psalm 73, was a contemporary of David. He also wrote Psalms 50 and 74-83. 2. Why do the wicked prosper and get away with their evil ways? Meanwhile the righteous suffer and don‟t receive justice. 3. Because as he describes in verses 3-12, he became envious of the proud and prosperous wicked. 4. A theodicy is a vindication of God and His divine justice in the face of the existence of evil. Psalm 73 is a theodicy. 5. The wicked may have prosperity now, but they will perish in the end. The righteous may have hardships now, but they will have a home in heaven in the future Even now they have the nearness of the Lord and the understanding of His ways. discuss\ consider

1. Have you ever wondered, like Asaph, “Is it worth it? Or is righteous living all in vain?” How did you answer these doubts? 2. The turning point in Psalm 73 comes in verse 17. What happened in this verse to encourage Asaph‟s faith? How could this perspective be encouraging to you too? challenge Asaph was careful not to mislead other believers with his personal doubts. He went before the Lord in the sanctuary and waited on God for the Lord‟s answers. Once he received insights and clarification from the Lord, then he shared his experience with other believers. We too need to get before the Lord and into His Word when we have doubts and struggles in our faith. memorize “But as for me, my feet had almost stumbled; my steps had nearly slipped. For I was envious of the boastful, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked.” Psalm 73:2-3 “Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end.” Psalm 73:17 “But it is good for me to draw near to God; I have put my trust in the Lord GOD, that I may declare all Your works.” Psalm 73:28

Lesson 55

An Enemy Ruins the Sanctuary and Defeats the Nation Psalm 74

background notes


1. Believers can call on God based on His past activities. 2. Believers can call on God based on His present assurances. practical application

Make sure you‟re in the right “rise up” company of Psalm 74! questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 74?

2. What is the problem with the dating of this psalm?

3. Explain the meaning of the sea monsters and Leviathan in verses 13-14. 4. On what basis did Asaph appeal to God in verse 20? 5. What two groups do we see rising up in verses 22-23?

answers 1. This psalm is a maschil of Asaph, that is, a contemplative psalm of wisdom and insight along with instruction. 2. Psalm 74 laments the destruction of the Temple. If the psalm was written by Asaph, a contemporary of David, there is a problem because there was no Temple in David‟s day. The easiest solution is to realize that the Asaph who wrote this psalm in not the Asaph of David‟s time but probably a descendant of his, who lived at the time of the Babylonian destructions of Jerusalem in 586 B.C. 3. The sea monsters and Leviathan are figurative for the Egyptian forces which ironically perished in the sea- their home environment. The victory went to the people who had escaped to the wilderness, that is, the Children of Israel. 4. On the basis of the Abrahamic Covenant, God‟s unconditional, ongoing covenant with His people. In Genesis 12 God promised He would preserve His people and bless those who blessed Israel and curse those who cursed Israel. 5. In verse 22 there is a company of believers who call on God to rise up and defend His name, to put down the mockers and fools who do not honor God. In verse 23 there is the company of unbelievers who rise up and mock God; they rise against God. discuss\ consider

1. As Asaph called upon God based on what God had already done in history, so we can call on God based on what we know He has already done for us. What has God done in your past that shows His ongoing character? How does Romans 8:32 relate to this principle? 2. Believers can call on God based on His present assurances. Discuss some of the promises God has made to you as a believer. These things are certain; God‟s promises cannot fail. How can you base your prayers on these assurances? Use the following examples to get started: John 10:28, Romans 8:28, Romans 8:38-39, and Hebrews 13:5. challenge Will you rise up against God or rise up in dependence on Him? This is a daily decision you must make. memorize “They said in their hearts, „Let us destroy them altogether.‟ They have burned up all the meeting places of God in the land.” Psalm 74:8 “For God is my King from of old, working salvation in the midst of the earth.” Psalms 74:12

Lesson 56

The Judgment of God Psalm 75-76

background notes


1. Believers can be sure that God will judge the wicked. 2. Believers can be sure that God‟s judgment is just. practical application

1. Praise God that there is a Hell! 2. Don‟t treat God lightly! questions 1. In what way does Psalm 75 logically follow Psalm 74?


3. Who will drink the full cup of God‟s wrath in verse 8? 4. What other names refer to Jerusalem in Psalm 75? 5. When was the attack on Jerusalem that Asaph refers to, in which God overwhelmingly defeated the enemy?

answers 1. In Psalm 74, Asaph, the psalmist, called on God to remember His people in view of the enemy who had ruined the sanctuary and defeated the nation. Psalm 75 logically follows that appeal, because here we have God‟s judgment of all His enemies. 2. It is a thanksgiving psalm that anticipates God‟s judgment of the wicked and victory for His people. 3. The wicked. This will be true in the end times, not only in reference to individuals, but to nations that attack Israel. Without exception, the wicked will drink the full cup of God‟s wrath. 4. Jerusalem is also called Salem and Zion in Psalm 75:2. 5. A good possibility is the defeat of Sennacherib and the Assyrians who attacked Jerusalem in 701 B.C. In that great and miraculous victory, 185,000 Assyrian troops were wiped out in one night by the angel of the Lord. See 2 Kings 19. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 75:2 contains an important truth about God‟s judgment. It is God who determines when He will bring about judgment – not us, even though we think we know when and where God should send judgment. Recall a time when you wanted God‟s swift judgment upon someone, but His timing was different. Do you see a purpose for this now? 2. Psalm 76:11-12 reminds us that God is to be honored and feared by individuals and the kings of the earth. Nations will be judged for treating the one true God lightly. Discuss this issue on a personal level. In what ways do we sometimes treat God too lightly? challenge Do you praise God for the doctrine of Hell? Although it is not a pleasant topic, it is an important one! There must be a Hell for the righteousness of God to be vindicated forever. memorize “When I choose the proper time, I will judge uprightly.” Psalm 75:2 “For exaltation comes neither from the east nor from the west nor from the south. But God is the Judge: He puts down one, and exalts another.” Psalm 75:6-7 “You, Yourself, are to be feared; and who may stand in Your presence when once You are angry? You caused judgment to be heard from heaven; the earth feared and was still.” Psalm 76:7-8

Lesson 57

Asaph Calls on the Lord for Help & Receives Comfort from the Lord



1. Doubts arise during times of distress. 2. Reassurance comes during times of remembrance. practical application

Follow God‟s footprints. questions 1. Who was Jeduthun, mentioned in the title of this psalm?

2. How do we know that the distress Asaph was experiencing affected him very personally?

3. Give one New Testament passage that assures us our salvation can never be lost (there are many!). 4. Based on verses 9-10, what was Asaph‟s conclusion regarding why God had withdrawn His compassion? 5. What change occurs in the second half of Psalm 77?

answers 1. Jeduthun was one of the choir directors appointed by David to lead in public worship (1 Chronicles 16:37-42). 2. We see that the first half of Psalm 77 is very introspective. The personal pronouns “I, me and my” are used over 20 times in the first 10 verses. There is more concern and mention of self than dependence on the Lord in the first half of this psalm. 3. John 10:27-28 4. Asaph concluded that God had allowed the distress and had withdrawn His compassion because He was angry with some sinful condition and was using the distress as discipline. 5. The psalm is no longer introspective. For the last ten verses, the personal pronoun “I” is only used four times, whereas the nouns and pronouns for God are used more than 20 times. Asaph shifts to remembering the works and wonders of the Lord. discuss\ consider

1. Review the five doubts Asaph raised concerning God‟s goodness and sovereign ways. When have you as a believer experienced similar doubts?

Has God rejected me?

Does God still love me?

Are God‟s promises still good?

Has God forgotten to be gracious?

Is God angry with me? 2. The key to Asaph‟s transition from doubt to assurance was remembering the great acts of God in the past. Discuss these two presuppositions to keep in mind regarding God‟s great past works:

God is holy and therefore whatever He does is right.

In all of God‟s great works ultimately He had the blessing and benefit of His people in view. challenge Asaph started Psalm 77 needing to be counseled. Asaph ends Psalm 77 as a counselor. The key to his transition was remembering and thinking through the great works and wonders of God. Will you have a change of heart like this? memorize “In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord; my hand was stretched out in the night without ceasing.” Psalm 77:2 “I will remember the works of the LORD; surely I will remember Your wonders of old.” Psalm 77:11

Lesson 58

The Early History of Israel is Reviewed to Teach the Lessons of History Psalm 78

background notes


1. God‟s people should learn and teach the lessons of the Wilderness. 2. God‟s people should learn and teach the lessons of the Exodus 3. God‟s people should learn and teach the lessons of the Land. practical application

Don‟t be a pain! questions 1. According to Asaph the psalmist, what is the responsibility of each generation?

2. According to verses 9-11, why was the tribe of Ephraim not completely successful in battle?

3. List four lessons the Children of Israel were to learn and teach their children from the Exodus. 4. How is the Land of Canaan referred to in verse 54?

answers 1. Every generation has the responsibility to pass on to the next generation the lessons of history that they have learned from the former generation. There is biblical truth in the expression, “If you don‟t learn from the mistakes of history, you‟re bound to repeat them.” 2. Because they failed in their obedience to keep God‟s covenant 3. Lessons from the Exodus:

God has superior power over the gods of Egypt.

God miraculously protected His people from the plagues of Egypt.

The death of the first born clearly showed that the God of Israel was the one true God.

The crossing of the Red Sea miraculously delivered God‟s people and destroyed the enemy. 4. As God‟s holy land, which He gave by specific measurement to the Children of Israel discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the importance of each generation passing on lessons to the next generation. Were your parents open with you about their mistakes and lessons learned? How can you practice transparency before your kids? 2. Recall some of the most beneficial lessons you have learned in your life as a believer. How can you teach these lessons to people younger in the faith? You don‟t have to stand in front of the church on Sundays to teach; discuss practical ways each of you can teach the younger generation from your own experiences. challenge In order to teach the lessons from your past, you have to recall them. Don‟t be so busy with your current issues that you forget to reflect on God‟s goodness to you in the past. Learn your own lessons and then teach others. memorize “We will not hide them from their children, telling to the generation to come the praises of the LORD, and His strength and His wonderful works that He has done.” Psalm 78:4 “How often they provoked Him in the wilderness, and grieved Him in the desert! Yes, again and again they tempted God, and limited the Holy one of Israel.” Psalm 78:40-41

Lesson 59

Asaph Laments the Destruction of Jerusalem & Calls on God to Destroy the Enemies of Israel



1. Believers should follow Asaph‟s example in his lament for Jerusalem. 2. Believers should follow Asaph‟s example in his prayer for deliverance. practical application

Don‟t gloat, but rather give glory to God! questions 1. Who was Asaph?

2. What other Old Testament book addresses the horrible conditions that followed the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar and the Babylonians? 3. Was Asaph interested in personal revenge? 4. What was the root cause of the nation of Judah‟s devastated condition? 5. Did God answer Asaph‟s prayer?

answers 1. Asaph was a contemporary of David who was appointed to be David‟s chief music director. However the Asaph who composed both Psalms 74 and 79 must have been a descendant of this Asaph. Both of these psalms address the destruction of the temple, which came 400 years after David‟s time. 2. Lamentations, especially chapters 4:4-10. The people actually practiced cannibalism for survival during the siege of Jerusalem. 3. No. He is calling for God‟s wrath to be poured out on the enemies of the Lord who have dared to attack God‟s people and destroy the temple. 4. The cause of their devastation was the nation‟s sin. Asaph acknowledges and confesses this sin in verse 8. 5. Yes, God in His grace preserved a Jewish remnant in Babylon where they thrived and later came back to Jerusalem in a miraculous return. discuss\ consider

1. Asaph did not minimize the distress he was experiencing in his lament before the Lord. Do you think that as believers there is pressure to ignore the reality of a painful situation or keep a stiff upper lip? How can you follow Asaph‟s example when bringing your heartbreak before the Lord? 2. Discuss the four arguments on which Asaph based his appeal for divine mercy and deliverance of God‟s people. 1) The compassion of God. 2) The glory of God‟s own name. 3) The vindication of God‟s people. 4) The power of God. challenge God is able to vindicate Himself when people blaspheme His name, deny His existence, defame His character, and blatantly tear down biblical moral standards. When we do see Him act in judgment against such people, we should not gloat, but rather give glory to God for His righteous judgment. memorize “O God, the nations have come into Your inheritance; Your holy temple they have defiled; They have laid Jerusalem in heaps.” Psalm 79:1 “Why should the nations say, „Where is their God?‟ Let there be known among the nations in our sight the avenging of the blood of Your servants which has been shed.” Psalm 79:10 “So we, Your people and sheep of Your pasture, Will give You thanks forever; We will show forth Your praise to all generations.” Psalm 79:13

Lesson 60

The Key to the Restoration of Israel & The Key for Guaranteed Blessing from the Lord



1. The key to healing is recognition of the Son. 2. The key to blessing is obedience to the Lord. practical application

Don‟t make practical applications beyond the limits of Scripture. questions 1. In what time period was Psalm 80 most likely written?

2. Why were the sheep of the northern kingdom of Israel experiencing tears, disgrace, and defeat (verses 4-7)?

3. Who is the root and branch of Psalm 80:15? 4. When was the joyful song of Psalm 81 sung? 5. What was the result of Israel‟s failure to follow God‟s Law?

answers 1. This psalm was likely written sometime after the Assyrian takeover of the northern kingdom of Israel, because it is especially the northern tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh that are asking for restoration. 2. Because of God‟s discipline on them for their sins 3. It is not the Lord, but Israel who has been cut down and burned by the invading Assyrians (verse 16). 4. Possibly at Israel‟s yearly Feast of Trumpets, Feast of Tabernacles, or both 5. God gave them over to the stubbornness of their own hearts where they would reap what they had sown (verse 12). discuss\ consider

1. The key to Israel‟s healing will be the recognition of the Lord Jesus as the Son of God and Savior. Likewise this is the key to every individual person‟s healing from sin. Before you turned to Christ to save you, what other things did you look to for salvation and satisfaction? 2. Read Psalm 81:10. Discuss how bad hermeneutics have been used on this verse. Hermeneutics are the principles of biblical interpretation. Why is it important to have principles to guide us when we approach scripture? challenge The key to blessing is obedience to the Lord. How is your obedience level? Are you following God‟s ways or rebelling against Him? What has been the result in your life? memorize “Restore us, O LORD God of hosts; cause Your face to shine, and we shall be saved!” Psalm 80:19 “Oh, that My people would listen to Me, that Israel would walk in My ways!” Psalm 81:13

Lesson 61

God Holds Judges Responsible for Their Court Decisions & God will Judge all the Nations that Come against Israel



1. Judges are expected to rule with justice. 2. Nations that gang up against Israel will be defeated. practical application

1. It‟s not too late to pray verse 8! 2. Let‟s pray for more than the defeat of our enemies! questions 1. What is the subject of Psalm 82? Where have we seen this topic addressed previously?

2. Discuss a key word in this psalm, found in verses 1 and 6.

3. List four characteristics of the unfair and unrighteous judges in Israel. 4. What was the Lord Jesus‟ purpose in quoting Psalm 82:6? 5. What was the possible historical occasion for Psalm 83?

answers 1. Psalm 82, another psalm of Asaph, concerns the unrighteous judges in Israel. This is the same subject that we saw in Psalm 58, which was written by David. 2. God is seen standing among the rulers of Israel. In most translations, these rulers are referred to as “gods.” This is the Hebrew word elohim which can be translated God or gods, meaning rulers or judges. The fact that the same Hebrew word is used for God and rulers emphasizes the truth that the rulers in Israel were God‟s representatives and were responsible to judge righteously as God was righteous. 3. 1) Showing favor to the wicked over the righteous. 2) Ignoring the righteous claims of the lower ranks of society. 3) Allowing the poor and needy to be taken advantage of by the wicked. 4) Not understanding that law and order and fair judgment are foundational for a nation. 4. The Lord quoted this verse to the Scribes and Pharisees in John 10:34 when they accused Him of blasphemy for saying that He was the Son of God. The Lord‟s point was that even from their wrong position of rejecting Him as the Son of God, His words could not be blasphemy, because human rulers were called gods in Psalm 82. 5. During the reign of King Jehoshaphat of Judah a coalition of enemy nations including Moab, Ammon, Edom, and Syria, came against Judah (see 2 Chronicles 20). Asaph calls on the Lord to deliver Judah as in the days of the Judges. All that Asaph prayed regarding the defeat and humiliation of the enemy coalition was fulfilled. discuss\ consider

1. In Psalm 82:8, Asaph called on God, the righteous Judge, to arise and judge all the earth. When will this prayer be fully answered? Discuss why this is still a proper prayer for today. 2. Discuss the end time events when the restored nation of Israel will be attacked by a coalition of foreign powers. Psalm 83 prophetically looks forward to that end time situation. What will be the result of the attacks on Israel in that day? challenge Asaph prayed for the defeat of the enemies not so that Israel could gloat, but so that the enemies would seek the Lord. Follow Asaph‟s example and pray for more than the defeat of your enemies. memorize “God stands in the congregation of the mighty; He judges among the gods [elohim, rulers].” Psalm 82:1 “Arise, O God, judge the earth; for You shall inherit all nations.” Psalm 82:8 “Do not keep silent, O God! Do not hold Your peace, And do not be still, O God! For behold, Your enemies make a tumult; and those who hate You have lifted up their head.” Psalm 83:1-2

Lesson 62

A Passion and Yearning to be Near to the Lord and be in Restored Fellowship with the Lord



1. Committed believers yearn for fellowship with the Lord. 2. Committed believers yearn for restoration to the Lord. practical application

1. Learn the secret of living the good life! 2. Don‟t prevent righteousness and peace from kissing! questions 1. Who was the author of Psalm 84?

2. Where was the presence of the Lord focused in the Old Testament?

3. In verse 10, how did the psalmist describe his great yearning to be close to the Lord? 4. What was the occasion of Psalm 85? 5. How have righteousness and peace kissed one another (verse 10) in the Lord Jesus Christ?

answers 1. From the title we see that this psalm was either written by one of the descendants of Korah or written by someone else and given to the sons of Korah to be set to music and used in temple worship. 2. The presence of the Lord in the midst of His people was focused in a special way with the glory of the Lord in the Holy of Holies – first in the Tabernacle and then the Temple. 3. His yearning was so great that he considered a day in the courts of the Temple as better than 1000 days away from the Temple. To stand humbly at the threshold of the Temple was far better than to live in worldly places where God was not honored. 4. This psalm may have been written after the return of the Jewish people from their Babylonian captivity, or it may refer to another time when God‟s people were under attack by enemy forces and God delivered them. 5. Christ‟s righteousness has been imputed to believers and we have peace with God (Romans 5:1). Furthermore, our Lord‟s future kingdom on this earth will be one of righteousness and peace. discuss\ consider

1. From Psalm 84:6 we see the principle that committed believers who yearn for fellowship with the Lord will find spiritual refreshment where other uncommitted believers experience spiritual dryness. Discuss how you have experienced either side of this principle in your past. 2. Psalm 85:1-3 celebrates the past restoration of the people to the Lord. This motivated the psalmist to pray that the Lord would restore and revive them again. Believers who have experienced restoration and close fellowship with the Lord, long to be restored again if they are disciplined for wrongdoing. Have you seen this to be true in your Christian life? challenge The good life is not defined by lots of money, possessions, and vacations. The really good life is to know the Lord as Sun and Shield – the warmth of His love and His protection. The secret to this good life is to walk uprightly. “No good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” Psalm 84:11 memorize “For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD will give grace and glory; no good thing will He withhold from those who walk uprightly.” Psalm 84:10-11 “LORD, You have been favorable to Your land; You have brought back the captivity of Jacob.” Psalm 85:1 “Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed.” Psalm 85:10

Lesson 63

A Great Model Prayer of David Psalm 86

background notes


1. Biblical praying acknowledges the attributes of God. 2. Biblical praying affirms the authority of Scripture. 3. Biblical praying anticipates the advent of Christ. practical application

Pray for a united heart! questions 1. What is unique about Psalm 86?

2. How is Psalm 86 structured like a sandwich?

3. How are the three titles for God in this Psalm translated in English translations? 4. Which verse in Psalm 86 is Messianic? 5. What did David mean by a “united heart” in verse 11?

answers 1. Psalm 86 is the only psalm of David in Book 3 of the Psalms. Book 3 includes Psalms 73 through 89. 2. The opening verses (1-7) and closing verses (14-17) are petitions, but the middle verses (8-13) are filled with praise and thanksgiving. Call it a worship sandwich! 3. Elohim – God; Yahweh or Jehovah – LORD, Adonai – Lord 4. Verse 9 – here David prophetically looks forward to the time when all nations will worship the Lord and glorify His name. 5. David prayed for an undivided heart or singleness of heart that was not distracted away from the Lord by all the other interests in life. Interests are not necessarily bad in themselves, but take time and energy away from what should be the main focus in a believers‟ life, namely the Lord and His kingdom. discuss\ consider

1. In Psalm 86, the name of God appears 16 times, consisting of three divine titles: Elohim, Yahweh or Jehovah, and Adonai. Review what these different names of God reveal about different attributes and aspects of His character. 2. Have you quoted Scripture in your prayers? These are the promises and truths of the Word of God. Discuss how you could integrate more Scripture into your prayer life. challenge Will you, like David, pray for a united heart? memorize “For You, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive, and abundant in mercy to all those who call upon You.” Psalm 86:5 “Teach me Your way, O LORD; I will walk in Your truth; unite my heart to fear Your name.” Psalm 86:11 “Oh, turn to me, and have mercy on me! Give Your strength to Your servant.” Psalm 86:16

Lesson 64

Praise about Past and Future Glories of Israel & The Saddest Psalm



1. Jerusalem is God‟s special city. 2. The saddest psalm has a place in the believer‟s life. practical application

1. Make sure you have your birth certificate! 2. Let‟s hang in there! questions 1. What does the title “Rahab” refer to in Psalm 87:4?

2. What does Zechariah 14:6 teach us about the role of Jerusalem in the future?

3. Why is Psalm 88 called the saddest psalm? 4. What is the point of verses 10-12? 5. List the two given reasons God included this sad psalm in Scripture.

answers 1. Rahab is used as a nickname for Egypt (see also Psalm 89:10, Isaiah 30:7, and Isaiah 51:9). This is not a reference to Rahab the harlot; Rahab seems to have been the name of a powerful demonic force behind Egypt and thus is a nickname for Egypt. 2. When the Lord returns and establishes His worldwide kingdom, all nations will come to Jerusalem to worship the King. 3. In this psalm the psalmist was very close to death, forsaken by his friends, and he felt as if God had abandoned him. 4. Heman‟s point is that his desire is to praise the Lord while he is still living. 5. 1) The sorrow and sufferings conveyed in this psalm look forward to the sufferings of Christ as the Man of Sorrows. 2) Believers can identify with the psalmist when they are going through really hard times. discuss\ consider

1. God sovereignly chose Jerusalem to be His dwelling place on earth. Discuss what you know about the history of Jerusalem in biblical and modern times. 2. Have you, as Heman, felt forsaken by your friends and as if God has abandoned you? How can Psalm 88 be of encouragement to you along with Ephesians 1:11 and 1 Corinthians 10:13? challenge Heman did not turn away from God or give up his faith in the Lord. We too should hang in there when times are tough. The Lord has not rejected us. He will deliver us. He has reason for the timing of when and how He delivers us. memorize “The LORD loves the gates of Zion more than all the dwellings of Jacob.” Psalm 87:2 “O LORD, God of my salvation, I have cried out day and night before You.” Psalm 88:1 “Will You work wonders for the dead? Shall the dead arise and praise You?” Psalm 88:10

Lesson 65

The Davidic Covenant is Reviewed and Affirmed Psalm 89

background notes


1. The Davidic Covenant rests on the character of God. 2. The Davidic Covenant remains in spite of the character of man. practical application

Keep praying even when you don‟t fully understand. questions 1. What was the Davidic Covenant?

2. In what way does the Davidic Covenant rest on the character of God?

3. Who are the “sons of the mighty” in verse 6? 4. Will the Davidic Covenant be fulfilled literally or spiritually? 5. Could the Davidic Covenant be nullified or cancelled?

answers 1. In 2 Samuel 7, the Lord promises David that his throne will be established forever. Ultimately this promise was fulfilled in Christ, the eternal descendant of David. 2. The validity of God‟s promises to David are based upon God‟s character. If God is not a God who keeps His word, the covenant means nothing. But because we know God‟s character, we know His promises are sure. 3. These are angels. They praise the Lord for His faithfulness, might, and supremacy. 4. For the promise of the earthly reign of David‟s descendants to be fulfilled literally, as intended in the Davidic Covenant, the Davidic throne must be reestablished here on this earth. This is not a heavenly throne or a reign over the hearts of believers in the church. The Davidic throne will be reestablished when the Lord returns to His literal, political, earthly kingdom. 5. No. The Davidic Covenant would not be cancelled out even if the descendants of David turned away from the Lord, as many did. The Lord would have to discipline the offenders, but the covenant would remain. discuss\ consider

Discuss why the character of God is important not only for the validity of the Davidic Covenant, but for all His promises to us as believers. challenge Ethan, the psalmist, had a problem understanding why God had allowed such a humiliating defeat of the Davidic king in view of the Davidic Covenant (verses 38-45). Ethan did the right thing by bringing it before the Lord in prayer. He kept praying even though he didn‟t understand all that God was doing. Will you follow this example? memorize “I will sing of the mercies of the LORD forever; with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.” Psalm 89:1 “I have made a covenant with My chosen, I have sworn to My servant David: „Your seed I will establish forever, and build up your throne to all generations.‟” Psalm 89:3-4 “Lord, where are Your former lovingkindnesses, which You swore to David in Your truth?” Psalm 89:49

Lesson 66

Moses Teaches us How we should Consider Life Psalm 90

background notes


1. Life is short because fallen man is frail. 2. Life is short because fallen man is sinful. practical application

1. Let us number our days. 2. Let us enjoy God‟s lovingkindness! questions 1. Why do we say this was probably the earliest of the Psalms?

2. Discuss the possible occasion of this psalm.

3. What great contrast is drawn between verses 1-2 and verses 3-6? 4. What misconception is sometimes drawn from Psalm 90:4 and 2 Peter 3:8? 5. List two principles from the Bible regarding death and sin.

answers 1. Since Psalm 90 was written by Moses, it was written very early in history. We can only say it was “probably” the earliest, since there are several anonymous psalms about which we don‟t know who wrote them or when. 2. Psalm 90 was most likely written during the wilderness wanderings of the Children of Israel. Moses would have observed a lot of people dying in the wilderness during that forty year period. As Moses reflected on these deaths, he wrote this psalm about the shortness of life because of man‟s frailty and man‟s sin. 3. The first verses of this psalm emphasize the truth that God is eternal. In verses 3-6, the frailty of man is brought out, in great contrast to the eternal God. 4. Some people use this as a formula that you can substitute 1000 year blocks of time for any listing of days that you find on Scripture. No, this is Bad Hermeneutics! The point here and in 2 Peter is that God is not bound by time as we are, because He is outside of time. 5. The Bible clearly teaches that God is angry concerning sin and that death is the result of sin. The Bible also teaches that life can be shortened because of sin. There is even disciplinary death of believers because of sin, as was the case with the Children of Israel. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss how Moses‟ experience in the wilderness of seeing an estimated 1,000 people die each week would have ingrained in his mind that man is frail. Do you grasp the frailty of human life? What experience has helped you understand this better? 2. Because life is short, we should set our priorities in line with the teaching of God‟s Word and use our time wisely. Discuss personal ways that you are “numbering your days.” challenge Lovingkindness is God‟s steadfast, unfailing, and loyal love. Even though life is short because of sin and its consequences, we can appreciate and enjoy the goodness of God in everyday life! memorize “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever You had formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, You are God.” Psalm 90:2 “So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 “And let the beauty of the LORD our God be upon us, and establish the work of our hands for us; Yes, establish the work of our hands.” Psalm 90:17

Lesson 67

The Committed Believer is Safe and Secure in the Protection of the Almighty



1. Believers are immune to the normal fears of life. 2. Believers are immortal until their work in life is over. practical application

Watch out for Satan‟s wrong use of Scripture. questions 1. What do we know about the background of Psalm 91?

2. How did Satan misquote Psalm 91?

3. Review the four names of God used in verses 1-2.

4. Give some biblical examples of believers in life-threatening situations in which the Lord delivered them.

answers 1. Not much, since there is no title to this psalm. We don‟t know who wrote it or the occasion of the psalm. Some scholars see a strong parallel between this psalm and Psalm 90, written by Moses, but we can‟t be sure. 2. Satan quoted verses 11-12 of this psalm during Christ‟s temptation in the wilderness (Matthew 4, Mark 1, Luke 4). Of course he quoted these verses out of context in order to tempt the Lord Jesus. Notice he did not quote verse 13, which predicted his own doom. 3.

Most High (El Elyon) – emphasizing the strength and sovereignty of God

Almighty (El Shaddai) – the all-powerful God

Lord (Yahweh or Jehovah) – the self-existent God who redeems His people

God (Elohim) – emphasizing the power, majesty, and Deity of the Creator 4. In Luke 4, the multitude tried to throw Jesus over a cliff, but He walked right past them. Daniel was spared out of a den of lions (Daniel 6). Paul was spared although he was bitten by a poisonous snake (Acts 28). Other examples could be given. discuss\ consider

1. Scripture does not say there will be no terrors by night or no arrows by day. It says that we don‟t have to be afraid of them (Psalm 91:5). What protection do believers have from the normal fears of life? Refer also to 2 Timothy 1:7. 2. Have you ever contemplated the truth “Believers are immortal until their work in life is over”? Discuss what this promise means and what it does not mean. challenge Satan is crafty and he uses God‟s powerful Word out of context to deceive us. Remember, God‟s Word will not contradict itself. Watch out for Satan‟s wrong use of Scripture. memorize “He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.” Psalm 91:1 “For He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11

Lesson 68

Praise to the Lord for His Judgment and Blessings & An Enthronement Psalm



1. Believers should praise the Lord for His goodness and greatness. 2. Believers will praise the Lord for His sovereignty and Scripture. practical application

1. You can still bear fruit in old age! 2. Study now what you will appreciate forever. questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 92?

2. How does Romans 1:33 relate to verse 5?

3. What is an enthronement psalm? 4. What time period does Psalm 93 look forward to? 5. Why is God‟s control over the tumultuous sea a good illustration of His sovereignty?

answers 1. We see from the title that is was a psalm of praise to be sung for worship on the Sabbath day. 2. Both emphasize the depth and greatness of God‟s ways. According to Psalm 92, we should thank the Lord for all His works and ways, even when we can‟t figure them all out. 3. An enthronement or theocratic psalm, such as Psalm 93, praises God who is the king who sovereignly reigns over all the earth from His throne in heaven. 4. This psalm anticipates the millennial reign of Christ when the Lord will reign over this earth from His literal throne in Jerusalem. In fact, we may sing this psalm when we reign with Christ in His earthly kingdom. 5. To the people of the ancient Middle East, the sea was unpredictable, uncontrollable, hostile, and hazardous. But it was not a problem for the all-powerful God of Israel. Also, in the Canaanite religions which had penetrated Israel, the god Baal was supposedly over the sea. In truth, the one true God of Israel was sovereign over the tumultuous waves and breakers. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 92:12-15 discuss believers bearing fruit in old age. If you are in this category, what are you doing to stay active and effective for the Lord? If you are a younger believer, is there an older believer you would like to grow to become like? 2. Bible studies are surely helpful in teaching us how to apply God‟s Word to our lives today. Have you ever thought of the effect Bible studies may have on your future? Discuss the claim that understanding God‟s Word better now will help you appreciate it more – forever. challenge Psalm 92:1 says, “It is good to give thanks to the Lord.” Do you agree? memorize “It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High.” Psalm 92:1 “They shall still bear fruit in old age; they shall be fresh and flourishing.” Psalm 92:14 “Your testimonies are very sure; Holiness adorns Your house, O LORD, forever.” Psalm 93:5

Lesson 69

God Answers Why the Wicked Seem to Prosper Psalm 94

background notes


1. God knows all about the wicked, even though it may not appear that way. 2. God will judge all the wicked, even though it may not appear that way. practical application

Remember, we‟ve got the big guns! questions 1. What age-old question does the psalmist address in Psalm 94?

2. List some of the evil deeds of the wicked from verses 5-7.

3. What is a theodicy? 4. Explain the two steps and conclusion for any causal argument. 5. How does Romans 12:19 relate to verses 20-23?

answers 1. He wonders how long the Lord will allow the wicked to exult in their pride and continue in their wicked works and arrogant words. In other words, why does a good and loving God allow ungodly people to prosper and get away with their wrong doing? 2.

They persecute the Lord‟s people – verse 5

They get away with the murder of helpless individuals – verse 6

They think that God does not see nor care – verse 7

3. A theodicy is “a vindication of God and divine justice in the face of the existence of evil.” That is, it gives answers as to why a good, loving, and all-powerful God allows suffering and evil to exist. 4. Step #1: For every effect there must be a cause Step #2: No effect can be greater than its cause Conclusion: The cause of any effect must be qualitatively or quantitatively equal or greater than the effect 5. Both of these passages assure us the Lord will take vengeance on the wicked on behalf of His people. Sometimes we see it in this lifetime, but we can be sure that the wicked will ultimately be destroyed by the Lord in the final judgments. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss how Psalm 94:9-11 follow the structure of a classic causal argument. What is the conclusion about God‟s knowledge of the wicked? 2. Sometimes God does not judge the wicked immediately because we come to know His comforting presence and sustaining grace more when wickedness surrounds us, than if all was at peace. Read Psalm 94:16-19. Can you give an example of this from your own life? challenge The causal argument is a powerful argument for the God of the Bible being the Supreme Being, the first cause. Don‟t shrink back in defending your faith – we have the big guns! memorize “LORD, how long will the wicked, how long will the wicked triumph?” Psalm 94:3 “But the LORD has been my defense, and my God the rock of my refuge.” Psalm 94:22

Lesson 70

Calls to Worship the Lord Psalms 95 & 96

background notes


1. There is no good reason not to worship the Lord. 2. There will be universal worship of the Lord when He returns. practical application

1. Don‟t fail the rest! 2. Let‟s show an attitude of worship! questions 1. Review the definition offered for “worship.”

2. How did the author of Hebrews use Psalm 95:8-11?

3. Where do we see a psalm similar to Psalm 96 elsewhere in Scripture? 4. Who is called upon to worship the Lord in Psalm 96? 5. Why will a “new song” be sung to the Lord (verse 1)?

answers 1. Worship is acknowledging who God is and what God does, to God Himself, with Thanksgiving. 2. He used these verses in reference to God‟s rest today (Hebrews 3:7 – 4:11). His point is that as the Children of Israel failed to enter the Promised Land rest because of unbelief, so unbelief will keep people today out of the rest of heaven. 3. This psalm is quoted with only slight variation in 1 Chronicles 16:23-33. 1 Chronicles 16 was the occasion of David bringing the Ark of the Covenant up to Jerusalem, which may indicate that David was the author of this psalm. 4. In this psalm the whole earth, including all nations and nature itself is called on to worship the Lord. 5. This is not a slight against old hymns of the faith! A new song will be sung when the Lord returns because the Lord will be here in His glorious kingdom and will reign over all the nations. discuss\ consider

1. Think back on times when you have not “felt like” worshipping God. Was it because your heart was hardened (Psalm 95:8)? How were you able to shift your thinking so you could truly worship God – giving Him your mind‟s attention and your heart‟s affection? 2. Have you ever considered using Saturday night or early Sunday morning to prepare yourself for worshipping the Lord? Whether in the way you talk, the way you prioritize your time, or the way you dress, you can prepare yourself for an attitude of worship. challenge Use your imagination to picture what it will be like in the day when nature itself worships the Lord. memorize “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; Let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms.” Psalm 95:1-2 “Do not harden your hearts, as in the rebellion, as in the day of trial in the wilderness, when your fathers tested Me; they tried Me, though they saw My work.” Psalm 95:8-9 “Give to the LORD, O families of the peoples, Give to the LORD glory and strength. Give to the LORD the glory due His name; bring an offering, and come into His courts. Oh, worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness! Tremble before Him, all the earth.” Psalm 96:7-9 “Let the heavens rejoice, and let the earth be glad; Let the sea roar, and all its fullness; Let the field be joyful, and all that is in it. Then all the trees of the woods will rejoice before the LORD.” Psalm 96:11-12

Lesson 71

Call to the Earth to Rejoice and Praise Psalms 97 & 98

background notes


1. The Coming Kingdom will begin with righteous judgment. 2. The Coming Kingdom will be characterized with righteous judgment. practical application

1. Live your life now in view of the future. 2. Appreciate the use of figurative language in the Bible. questions 1. What is eschatology?

2. Explain the two phases of the Second Coming of Christ.

3. What cosmological phenomena will accompany the coming of the Lord (verses 2-5)? 4. What did the psalmist and other Old Testament prophets have in mind when they spoke of the kingdom of the coming Messiah? 5. How does Romans 8:21 relate to Psalm 98:7-8?

answers 1. Eschatology is the doctrine of future events. 2. The first phase will be the Rapture of the Church and the second phase is the Lord‟s Return to this earth to establish His worldwide millennial kingdom. Between these two phases is a period of time known as the Tribulation Period, which will be a time of great trouble on this earth. 3. There will be clouds, thick darkness, fire, lightning, and the melting of the mountains to emphasize the Lord‟s awesome power and consuming judgment. 4. The righteous kingdom in view here is not the Church or the kingdom of God in general, but rather the specific literal kingdom that the Lord will establish on this earth when He returns. 5. Both of these passages tell us that even nature will benefit in the Lord‟s righteous kingdom. discuss\ consider

Since the coming kingdom of our Lord will be one of rightness and will begin with righteous judgment, we should hate evil now. Do you hate evil now? challenge You can believe in the literal interpretation of Scripture and still appreciate figurative language in the Bible. Figurative language can many times express the truth in more vivid or more beautiful terms. memorize “The LORD reigns; Let the earth rejoice; Let the multitude of isles be glad!” Psalm 97:1 “Shout joyfully to the LORD, all the earth; Break forth in song, rejoice, and sing praises.” Psalm 98:4

Lesson 72

Call to Worship the Lord Psalms 99 & 100

background notes


1. Believers should worship the Lord who is a holy and merciful king. 2. Believers should worship the Lord who is a sovereign and good king. practical application

1. Know what the Bible doesn‟t say. 2. Make a joyful noise unto the Lord! questions 1. What type of psalm is Psalm 99?

2. What is the major emphasis of Psalm 99?

3. What does it mean that God is holy? 4. Review the definition of worship given. 5. Psalm 100 looks forward to what timeframe?

answers 1. Psalm 99 is a royal psalm in which the Lord is viewed as the king reigning over Israel in Old Testament times. It also prophetically looks forward to the time when the Lord will reign over the whole earth from His throne in Jerusalem during the future millennial kingdom. 2. The holiness of the Lord 3. It means that God is absolutely pure and totally separate from sin. 4. Worship is acknowledging the truth about God to God Himself, with thanksgiving. 5. This psalm is prophetic of the time in the future when restored Israel and saved Gentiles will enter Jerusalem‟s gates and the courts of the Millennial Temple with praise and thanksgiving to the Lord. discuss\ consider

When we think of the awesome holiness of God, we can be even more thankful for the mercy He shows. Discuss the mercy of God described in Psalm 99. Give a testimony of a way God has recently shown you mercy. challenge Shouting for joy might be a bit disruptive to your church services, but where could you shout for joy to the Lord? Make a joyful noise unto the Lord! memorize “Exalt the LORD our God, and worship at His holy hill; For the LORD our God is holy.” Psalm 99:9 “Make a joyful shout to the LORD, all you lands! Serve the LORD with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Know that the LORD, He is God; It is He who has made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture. Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, And into His courts with praise. Be thankful to Him, and bless His name. For the LORD is good; His mercy is everlasting, and His truth endures to all generations.” Psalm 100

Lesson 73

Ethical Standards & The Sufferings and Glories of the Messiah



1. Christian leaders should maintain high ethical standards. 2. The sufferings of the Messiah precede the glories of His kingdom. practical application

1. Remember, great resolves are not a guarantee of great results. 2. Let the doctrines of God‟s sovereignty and immutability comfort you. questions 1. What was David‟s concern in Psalm 101?

2. How can Psalm 101 be considered messianic?

3. Give one of the many New Testament passages that call for high moral standards for church leaders today. 4. Describe how the warning “Great resolves are not a guarantee of great results” came true in David‟s life. 5. What is a “typical messianic psalm”? 6. How does Psalm 102 speak of the Messiah?

answers 1. That his kingdom be characterized by moral integrity and ethical standards of the highest quality. David wanted this applied to his own life as king as well as to his entire administration. 2. This psalm is messianic because these moral and ethical standards will characterize the coming earthly kingdom of the greater David, our Lord Himself, and His coming millennial kingdom. 3. 1 Timothy 3 gives requirements for New Testament church leaders. 4. Within a few years of writing Psalm 101, David stole another man‟s wife, committed adultery, and murdered her husband. Great resolutions are good, but they must be carried out. 5. A typical messianic psalm concerns the experiences of the psalmist, but is prophetic or typical of the coming Messiah. 6. Verses 1-11 describe the intense pain that our Lord experienced on the cross. The rest of the chapter speaks of the glories of the Messiah that follow His sufferings. discuss\ consider

1. What are “high ethical standards”? Our culture today certainly does not value these standards, do we? If so, how would someone know that by viewing our life? 2. Hebrews 12:2 says that our Lord endured the cross in view of the joy to come. How can you relate to this principle of enduring a difficulty to reap a joyful reward? When was the last time this occurred in your life? challenge At the end of Psalm 102, the psalmist contrasts his own brief life with the eternal existence of God, who created and controls all things and does not change. Let the doctrines of God‟s sovereignty and immutability comfort you. memorize “I will behave wisely in a perfect way. Oh, when will You come to me? I will walk within my house with a perfect heart. I will set nothing wicked before my eyes.” Psalm 101:2-3 “Hear my prayer, O LORD, and let my cry come to You. Do not hide Your face from me in the day of my trouble; Incline Your ear to me; In the day that I call, answer me speedily.” Psalm 102:1-2 “But You are the same, and Your years will have no end.” Psalm 102:27

Lesson 74

Glory to the Lord for His Great & Wonderful Character Psalm 103

background notes


1. Believers should praise the Lord for His personal benefits. 2. Believers should praise the Lord for His gracious lovingkindness. 3. Believers should praise the Lord for His total sovereignty. practical application

1. Don‟t remember what God forgets! 2. Don‟t forget what God remembers! questions 1. What does it mean to bless the Lord?

2. From verses 1-5, list five personal benefits that the Lord gives to us as His beloved people.

3. Discuss the Hebrew word “hesed.” 4. Who can be encouraged by verse 17? 5. What are the hosts and works of verses 21-22?

answers 1. To bless the Lord means to show admiration for the Lord as we thank and praise Him. 2. 1) Our salvation 2) He heals all our diseases 3) He redeems our life from the pit 4) He crowns us with lovingkindness and tender mercies 5) He satisfies our mouth with good things 3. This Hebrew word, used in verses 4, 8, 11, and 17, is so rich and full of meaning it is hard to translate into English with one word. Therefore translations vary using lovingkindness, mercy, or love. The Hebrew word conveys the idea of loyal and steadfast love, a merciful and covenantal love that God has for His people. 4. This verse can be an encouragement to parents and grandparents of children growing up today in this world of ever decreasing moral and spiritual values. 5. The hosts refer to angels, and His works refer to all created things. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 103:8-12 contains a beautiful description of the Lord‟s attitude toward our sin. Take a few moments to discuss how complete God‟s forgiveness of us is when we come to Him. 2. Psalm 103:14 tells us the Lord remembers that we are dust. Discuss how this verse can be a comfort to us, and a reminder that the Lord is graciously aware of our frailty. Discuss how it can also be an exhortation against pride and overconfidence in ourselves. challenge David wanted to praise the Lord with all that was within him – his body, soul, and spirit. How will you bless the Lord today? memorize “Bless the LORD, O my soul; and all that is within me, bless His holy name!” Psalm 103:1 “The LORD is merciful and gracious, Slow to anger, and abounding in mercy. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor punished us according to our iniquities. For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him; as far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us. As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear Him. For He knows our frame; He remembers that we are dust.” Psalm 103:8-14

Lesson 75

Praise for the Lord’s Wonderful Creation & His Dominion Over It Psalm 104

background notes


1. Believers should praise the Lord because of His creation. 2. Believers should praise the Lord because of His dominion. practical application

Sing hallelujah for harmony! questions 1. What is the structure of Psalm 104?

2. According to this structure, verses 6-9 would parallel Day 3 of creation, when the Lord brought the dry land out of the water. But what is another possible scenario for these verses? 3. Give a definition of “dominion.” 4. What is a leviathan (verse 26)?

answers 1. Psalm 104 has been called a poetic parallel to Genesis 1 because structurally the psalm follows the six days of creation week. 2. The flood of Noah‟s day 3. Dominion means supreme authority and control over a realm. The Lord‟s dominion over His creation is good and complete. 4. The Leviathan is probably a reference to the plesiosaur, a large marine reptile that is now extinct. discuss\ consider

Psalm 104: 19-23 speaks of the Lord‟s creation of the seasons and the day-night cycle. Have you ever thought of these regular occurrences as an occasion to praise the Lord? challenge “Hallelujah” is Hebrew for “Praise the Lord.” Will you join the psalmist in his determination to praise the Lord as long as he lives? memorize “He appointed the moon for seasons; the sun knows its going down.” Psalm 104:19 “O LORD, how manifold are Your works! In wisdom You have made them all. The earth is full of Your possessions.” Psalm 104:24 “I will sing to the LORD as long as I live; I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.” Psalm 104:33

Lesson 76

A Psalm of the Abrahamic Covenant Psalm 105

background notes


1. The Abrahamic Covenant was confirmed by God‟s protection of His people. 2. The Abrahamic Covenant was confirmed by God‟s preservation of His people. 3. The Abrahamic Covenant was confirmed by God‟s provision for His people. practical application

Don‟t miss the prophetic picture of Christ in Psalm 105! questions 1. Where do we find a psalm similar to Psalm 105 elsewhere in Scripture?

2. Where in Scripture do we find God‟s unconditional covenant with Abraham? What are three core promises of this covenant? 3. What three things does the psalmist emphasize about the covenant here? 4. What usually happens when a people group is relocated to another nation? 5. Where can we find a prophetic picture of Christ in Psalm 105?

answers 1. Verses 1-15 of this psalm are almost identical to 1 Chronicles 16:8-22 which was David‟s hymn of thanksgiving and praise when he brought the Ark of the Covenant up to Jerusalem. This is a strong indication that David was the author of this psalm. 2. The Abrahamic Covenant is first found in Genesis 12 and is confirmed to his descendants many times thereafter. Three key elements of this covenant include:

1) He would have innumerable natural descendants that would never perish from the earth. 2) His descendants would be given the land where he lived and more – from the River of Egypt to the Euphrates River. 3) The nations that blessed Abraham‟s descendants would be blessed, and those who did not bless his descendants would not be blessed.

3. 1) The permanence of the covenant 2) It was confirmed with Isaac and Jacob 3) The land portion of the covenant was emphasized 4. They assimilate with the people of that nation and lose their distinct identity as a culture. Yet God has supernaturally preserved the Jewish people down through time. 5. The description of Joseph in verses 17-21 is recognized as a type or spiritual picture of Christ. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 105 describes God‟s care and protection of the patriarchs and of Joseph as a confirmation of the Abrahamic Covenant. Discuss how God has continued to protect the Jewish people throughout history, even up to this last century in the State of Israel. 2. Reread Psalm 105:37-45 and discuss how God provided for His people when He brought them out of Egypt. He did this so His people would be free to “observe His statutes and keep His laws.” How does God provide for His people today, for the same purpose? challenge In Luke 24:27, Christ taught the disciples on the road to Emmaus that all Old Testament Scripture pointed forward to Himself. Looking for these references to Christ is a great way to study the Old Testament, including the Psalms. memorize “Remember His marvelous works which He has done, His wonders, and the judgments of His mouth, O seed of Abraham His servant, You children of Jacob, His chosen ones!” Psalm 105:5-6 “For He remembered His holy promise, and Abraham His servant. He brought out His people with joy, His chosen ones with gladness. He gave them the lands of the Gentiles, and they inherited the labor of the nations, that they might observe His statutes and keep His laws. Praise the LORD!” Psalm 105:42-45

Lesson 77

A Confession of Israel for Her Sins against the Lord Psalm 106

background notes


1. Believers should confess their sins and learn from their mistakes. 2. Believers should remember God‟s compassion and thank Him for His lovingkindness. practical application

Let all the people say, Amen! questions 1. What can we infer about where and when Psalm 106 was written?

2. Does the psalmist try to shift the blame for the sins of the nation?

3. Did the Children of Israel praise the Lord for redeeming them when He brought them out of Egypt? (verses 7-12)? 4. What was the result of Israel‟s sin of unbelief and refusal to enter the land when the spies returned (verses 24-27)? 5. What was the result of Israel‟s rebellion and complaining at Meribah (verses 32-33)? 6. Why did God command His people to kill the Canaanites when they entered the Promised Land (verses 34-39)?

answers 1. There is no title to this psalm, but verse 47 may give us some indication. From this verse it seems that Israel has already been scattered and is no longer a united kingdom. It would appear that this psalm as written from the Babylonian captivity as a prayer of confession and fervent request for restoration. This will certainly be the prayer of the godly remnant of restored Israel in the last days. 2. No. Although he speaks of the sins of the former generation in the third person throughout the psalm, in verse 6 he identifies himself and his people with this former generation. 3. No, they complained and rebelled when they saw the Red Sea. Only after God‟s gracious and awesome parting of the Red Sea and drowning of the Egyptian army did Israel finally believe and praise the Lord. 4. For this sin of unbelief they wandered in the wilderness for 40 years, until that generation died out. 5. Israel‟s sin here caused Moses to speak and act rashly. As a result, Moses was not allowed to enter the Promised Land (see Numbers 32). 6. God commanded the elimination of these nations so that Israel would not adopt their pagan practices. discuss\ consider

1. Throughout this psalm we see God‟s work on behalf of His people followed by a comment that they forgot His works and His salvation. Discuss how we are not unlike the Children of Israel when we forget God‟s work on our behalf. 2. Psalm 106 is a whirlwind history of the Children of Israel and God‟s work on their behalf. Were you able to follow this summary of the nation, or do you need to brush up on this section of biblical history? challenge God showed Israel a merciful, steadfast, loyal, and covenantal love throughout their history, in spite of their continued rebellion. This is the kind of love God shows you in spite of your shortcomings and partial obedience. Do you grasp how great our Father loves us? memorize “Praise the LORD! Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalm 106:1 “Save us, O LORD our God, and gather us from among the Gentiles, to give thanks to Your holy name, to triumph in Your praise.” Psalm 106:47

Lesson 78

Praise to the Lord for His Mighty Deliverance Psalm 107

background notes


1. Believers should praise the Lord for His deliverance. 2. Believers should praise the Lord for His providence. practical application

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! questions 1. Review the divisions of the book of Psalms.

2. What does verse 3 indicate about the timing of this psalm?

3. Outline the four examples of deliverance the psalmist describes in verses 4-32. 4. How abundantly did the Lord provide for His people when He delivered them from the wilderness wanderings? 5. Give a definition of providence

answers 1. Book 1 – Psalm 1-41 Book 2 – Psalm 42-72 Book 3 – Psalm 73-89 Book 4 – Psalm 90-106 Book 5 – Psalm 107-150 2. This verse would seem to indicate that this psalm was written after the Babylonian captivity when the Lord had regathered the Jewish captives from all directions and brought them back to the land. It is also prophetic of the godly remnant that will be restored in the future. 3. Deliverance from wandering (verses 4-9) Deliverance from captivity (verses 10-16) Deliverance from sickness (verses 17-22) Deliverance from the storm (verses 23-32) 4. He provided so abundantly that He gave them well stocked and established cities to meet their needs (Deuteronomy 6:10-11) 5. Providence is divine guidance and care. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 107 describes the Lord‟s deliverance of His people. In what way has the Lord delivered you? Choose a verse from verses 4-32 of this psalm that describes your attitude to the Lord for His deliverance. 2. God‟s providence, His guidance and care, is sometimes very dramatic and sometimes very subtle. Tell of God‟s greatest providence thus far in your life. Tell of God‟s providence for you this week. challenge Are you open to sharing your testimony with others of how the Lord has delivered you? Let the redeemed of the Lord say so! memorize “Let the redeemed of the LORD say so, whom He has redeemed from the hand of the enemy.” Psalm 107:2 “For He satisfies the longing soul, and fills the hungry soul with goodness.” Psalm 107:9 “Oh, that men would give thanks to the LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!” Psalm 107:31

Lesson 79

A Prayer of Praise for His Faithfulness and Petition for His Deliverance & And Imprecatory Psalm



1. It is right for the Lord‟s people to pray with praise and confident trust. 2. It is not wrong for the Lord‟s people to pray that people will reap what they have sown. practical application

1. Distinguish between repetition and repeating truth. 2. Don‟t let your prayers for God‟s righteous judgment take away from your praise. questions 1. Why might Psalm 108 sound very familiar to you?

2. Explain the reference to all the nations in Psalm 108:7-9.

3. Explain David‟s concern about his enemy Edom, followed by confidence (verses 10-13). 4. What type of psalm is Psalm 109? 5. As king, David could have taken matters into his own hands here. Did he?

answers 1. Verses 1-5 of this psalm are virtually identical to the second half of Psalm 57, while verses 6-13 are an echo of Psalm 60. Most likely this combination was made for liturgical purposes well after David‟s death, for use in temple worship. 2. These verses are prophetic of the Lord‟s coming earthly kingdom. Restored Israel at that time will include all that was given to them under the Abrahamic Covenant. All of Israel‟s enemies – past, present, and future, will be subdued. 3. David wondered how he would defeat this well-protected nation, based on previous defeats of the Israelite army. Then his confidence returns as he realizes that it is not Israel‟s army that brings victory, but Israel‟s Warrior, the Lord Himself. 4. This is one of the imprecatory psalms. To imprecate means to curse, so David turned this matter over to the Lord and called on Him to carry out justice. 5. No, he prayed for the leader of the ungodly opposition to reap what he had sown. discuss\ consider

1. What time of day are you most likely to praise the Lord? David began praising Him early each morning, but this is not your only option. Discuss what is most practical for your lifestyle – naptime, midnight? Make time to praise the Lord. 2. We see in Psalm 109 that David had shown love to some group of people, but they had responded with hatred and slander. Without naming names, have you had this experience? What was your response? challenge David ends his imprecatory prayer with praise. This is important for us to remember as we follow David‟s example and pray for God‟s justice on ungodly people. We should always end with praise. memorize “I will praise You, O LORD, among the peoples, and I will sing praises to You among the nations. For Your mercy is great above the heavens, and Your truth reaches to the clouds. Be exalted, O God, above the heavens, and Your glory above all the earth.” Psalm 108:3-5 “In return for my love they are my accusers, but I give myself to prayer.” Psalm 109:4

Lesson 80

The Coming Messiah seen as Divine King, Eternal Priest, and Victorious Warrior



1. The Messiah is a divine king. 2. The Messiah is an eternal priest. 3. The Messiah is a victorious warrior. practical application

Throne or footstool? That is the question! questions 1. What is the most quoted psalm in the New Testament?


3. Explain the two occurrences of “Lord” in verse 1. 4. How could David call the Messiah Lord when He would be a descendant of David? See Matthew 22:41-45. 5. Where is the Lord Jesus right now? When will He become our victorious warrior?

answers 1. Psalm 110. In fact, this psalm is quoted in the New Testament more than any other Old Testament passage. One commentator counted 33 quotations or allusions to Psalm 110. 2. Psalm 110 is a pure prophetic Messianic psalm. This means it is not a typical Messianic psalm where some of the experiences of David are typical of the Messiah. Rather, this psalm is pure prophecy. 3. The first LORD which may be in all caps in your Bible is a translation of the Hebrew “Yahweh” or “Jehovah,” referring to God the Father. The second Lord is the Hebrew “Adonai” meaning Lord or Master and refers to the Messiah. 4. The Messiah would be David‟s human descendant and the divine Lord. That is, the Messiah would be both Human and divine. New Testament authors quoted this verse to prove the deity of Jesus. 5. Right now the Lord Jesus is at the right hand of the Father in heaven (verse 5). But He will come back to this earth in judgment, as a victorious warrior, in order to establish His kingdom of righteousness. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss how the Messiah will be our eternal King-Priest since He is “in the order of Melchizedek” rather than the order of Aaron. What does it mean to have the Lord representing us before the Father as our Savior and Priest? 2. Think about the Lord as our divine king, eternal priest, and victorious warrior. Which of these pictures of Christ is most meaningful to you in this point of your life as a believer? challenge Will you sit with the Lord on His throne, ruling over the nations? Or will you be part of the footstool of Christ, under His feet and His enemy? There is no middle ground. You are either for the Lord or against the Lord. memorize “The LORD said to my Lord, „Sit at My right hand, till I make Your enemies Your footstool.‟” Psalm 110:1 “The LORD has sworn and will not relent, „You are a priest forever according to the order of Melchizedek.‟” Psalm 110:4

Lesson 81

Praise the Lord for His Excellencies & Blessings for Those who Fear the Lord



1. The Lord should be praised for His excellencies. 2. The person who fears the Lord is blessed. practical application

1. Do you have the right foundation for making right decisions? 2. Know the secret for reducing stress. 3. Don‟t be deceived by the mask of the wicked. questions 1. What type of psalm are Psalms 111 and 112?

2. What are the excellencies of the Lord?

3. What does Psalm 111:1 teach us about worship of the Lord? 4. What is the right foundation for making right decisions? 5. List the five blessings of Psalm 112 that come to the righteous person who fears the Lord.

answers 1. They are both perfect alphabetic or acrostic psalms. Both psalms have 22 lines each, corresponding to the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. These psalms naturally go together, both beginning with “Hallelujah” – Praise the Lord. This indicates both psalms were used for liturgical purposes. 2. God‟s excellencies include His attributes as well as His works and His words. 3. It is biblical to praise the Lord publicly, together with the Lord‟s people. 4. The fear of the Lord 5. 1) Physical and material prosperity 2) Light or guidance in the darkness 3) Goodness in exchange for generosity and justice 4) Stability and confidence 5) Strength and honor as a result of giving to the poor discuss\ consider

1. Think of the Lord‟s excellencies, His attributes, works, and words. Which of these do you most often praise the Lord for? Stretch yourself a bit and praise Him for another aspect of His excellencies right now. 2. Discuss the blessing of physical and material prosperity. You may hear this “prosperity gospel” preached as a hot topic today. What is the blessing for the faithful Christian? challenge Psalm 112:7 tells us a righteous person does not have to be afraid of evil tidings. What “evil tidings” or worries do you spend mental energy dwelling on? Can you trust this issue to our sovereign God? memorize “Praise the LORD! I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright and in the congregation.” Psalm 111:1 “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments. His praise endures forever.” Psalm 111:10 “Praise the LORD! Blessed is the man who fears the LORD, who delights greatly in His commandments.” Psalm 112:1

Lesson 82

God is Praised for His Transcendence and Immanence & God is Praise for Delivering and Dwelling with His People



1. God is both transcendent and immanent. 2. The Lord delivers and dwells with His people. practical application

1. Don‟t give up hope. 2. Don‟t miss the spiritual lessons in the miracles. questions 1. Psalm 113 begins what subsection of psalms?

2. Explain the words “transcendent” and “immanent.”

3. Describe the false views of God in Deism and Pantheism. 4. Explain how Psalm 114 has both historical and prophetic aspects. 5. Why did God deliver His people from Egypt?

answers 1. Psalm 113-118 are a collection of psalms called the Egyptian Hallel or Hymn of Praise. These psalms of praise were sung at Jewish feast days, Psalms 113 and 114 traditionally before the Passover meal and Psalms 115-118 after the meal. 2. Transcendent means that God is far above His creation; He is greater than the creation and independent of it. Immanent speaks of God‟s involvement in creation; He is not abstract or removed from His people. 3. Deism teaches that God is removed from His creation, as if He “wound up a watch” and let it go. Pantheism describes God as part of creation – all is one and one is God. Both of these views can be combated with Psalm 113. 4. Psalm 114 is about Israel‟s deliverance from Egypt, and thus was sung at Passover. It was also a prophetic psalm that looks forward to restored Israel in the future, when the Lord will dwell in the midst of His people in His earthly millennial kingdom. 5. So that He could dwell in their midst. discuss\ consider

1. Review the concepts of transcendence and immanence. Which is most meaningful to you at this point of your Christian life? 2. The Children of Israel‟s Exodus from Egypt and Wanderings in the Wilderness are full of spiritual pictures. Discuss a few of your favorites. challenge Because our transcendent God is also immanent He can work things out within His creation. He knows, cares, and has good plans for you. memorize “The LORD is high above all nations, His glory above the heavens.” Psalm 113:4 “Tremble, O earth, at the presence of the Lord, at the presence of the God of Jacob.” Psalm 114:7

Lesson 83

A Contrast between Lifeless Idols and our Loving Lord & An Expression of Love and Worship of our Gracious God



1. Senseless idols are no match for the loving Lord. 2. Worship should be a way of life for the believer. practical application

1. Pray while the sun shines. 2. Don‟t worry about your death! questions 1. When do we presume Psalms 115 and 116 were written?

2. When might the Lord Jesus have sung these psalms?

3. Explain the point of Psalm 115:1-2. 4. Tell two ways in which Psalm 116 is prophetic. 5. How does verse 15 fit into Psalm 116?

answers 1. Although neither of these psalms has titles, from the content we deduce that both are post-exilic, meaning they were written after the Jews returned from their Babylonian captivity. 2. These psalms were traditionally sung after the Passover meal, so the Lord and His disciples may have sung them after the institution of the Lord‟s Supper (see Matthew 26:30). 3. The pagan nations could no longer ridicule Israel about their silent God who had let them go into captivity. God had spoken in power and brought them back home to Jerusalem. The glory was all the Lord‟s. 4. It is prophetic of what the godly remnant of restored Israel will sing in the future when they are delivered through the Tribulation Period to live and reign with Christ in His earthly millennial kingdom. It is also prophetic in its Messianic implication, as the Lord is seen speaking in joy and gladness after His resurrection. 5. This verse may seem out of place at first, since in the rest of the psalm the psalmist is thanking the Lord for deliverance from death. The point, however, is that because the death of a believer is significant and not by chance, if the Lord does deliver you from death He has a good reason to want you to keep on living and serving Him. discuss\ consider

1. Few people in our culture today literally worship idols. But we certainly put our trust in things beside the living Lord. Discuss some of the things people trust in rather than God, and evaluate these things with Psalm 115:4-8. 2. Although this life is often painful and hard, in reality it is so brief. Psalm 116 encourages us to praise the Lord while we are present on this earth. How can you be more mindful of the brevity of this life? challenge Many Christians say they are not afraid to die, but they may be worried about how they will die. Don‟t worry about your death! The death of a saint is precious and significant to the Lord. memorize “The dead do not praise the LORD, nor any who go down into silence. But we will bless the LORD From this time forth and forevermore. Praise the LORD!” Psalm 115:17-18 “Return to your rest, O my soul, for the LORD has dealt bountifully with you. For You have delivered my soul from death, My eyes from tears, and my feet from falling. I will walk before the LORD In the land of the living.” Psalm 116:7-9

Lesson 84

The Shortest Psalm & A Messianic Psalm Psalms 117 & 118

background notes


1. God‟s lovingkindness extends to all people. 2. God‟s lovingkindness includes the Triumphal Entry. practical application

Think context when you sing! questions 1. Review some of the interesting trivia regarding Psalm 117.

2. When did God‟s love for the Gentiles begin?

3. What lesson can we learn from Psalm 118:5-9? 4. Psalm 118 concludes what subsection of psalms? 5. Explain the messianic meaning of verses 22-23, which the Lord quoted in reference to Himself in Matthew 21:42.

answers 1. Psalm 117 is the shortest psalm and the shortest chapter in the Bible. It is also the central chapter of the English Bible, with 594 chapters coming before and after. 2. Contrary to what some people believe, God‟s love for the Gentiles did not begin after Israel rejected her Messiah. All people have been in God‟s eternal plans. The Apostle Paul makes this argument by quoting Psalm 117 in Romans 15:11. 3. Here the Lord is praised for the deliverance He brought in the past, so now there can be great confidence through any attack, affliction, oppression, or problem in the future. 4. Psalm 118 is the last in this collection of psalms called Hallel or Hymns of Praise (Psalms 113-118) that were sung at the great feasts and holy days in Israel. At the feast of Passover it was traditional to sing Psalms 113 and 114 before the Passover supper and Psalms 115-118 after. 5. As builders reject a stone because it doesn‟t seem to fit their building plan, so the Lord was rejected by the religious leaders of Israel because He did not fit in place with their wrong building plans for the nation. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 117:1 tells us that God will never change His mind, because what He has declared as true is eternal. Discuss some of the things God has declared to be true about you, His child. Find great comfort in the fact that these truths are eternal. 2. Psalm 118:24 is a popularly quoted verse, “This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Discuss the meaning of this verse in context. challenge Praise the Lord that you, a Gentile, have been eternally part of His plan. memorize “Praise the LORD, all you Gentiles! Laud Him, all you peoples! For His merciful kindness is great toward us, and the truth of the LORD endures forever. Praise the LORD!” Psalm 117 “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” Psalm 118:6 “The stone which the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone. This was the LORD‟s doing; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalms 118:22-24

Lesson 85

The Longest Psalm, an Alphabetic Acrostic Psalm 119:1-40

background notes

1. 2. 3. doctrinal point

The Word of God is perfect and sufficient. practical application

Don‟t waste time on what is worthless! questions 1. Explain the structure of Psalm 119.

2. What New Testament verse reinforces our doctrinal point, “The Word of God is perfect and sufficient”? 3. What is the theme of verses 25-32? 4. What does it mean to be loyal to God‟s Word?

answers 1. Psalm 119 is not only the longest psalm; it is the longest chapter in the Bible with 176 verses. As an alphabetic acrostic psalm it is structured around the 22 letter Hebrew alphabet. Each letter in successive order has 8 lines beginning with that letter. 2. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 3. These verses are united by the psalmist‟s prayer for a greater understanding of God‟s Word, because through it there is revival and restoration. 4. Loyalty has both positive and negative aspects. It means turning to the Word of God in its perfection and sufficiency for life. It also means turning away from all other sources of secrets for successful living. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the desire to live a pure life. The answer is not in will power, but in hiding the Word of God in your heart. Discuss Psalm 119:9-16. 2. An emphasis in Psalm 119 is not just knowing God‟s Word, but desiring it, rejoicing in it, longing for it, wanting to obey it. The psalmist did not take the Word of God lightly. How can you develop this fervor for God‟s Word in your own life? challenge In Psalm 119:37 the psalmist expresses a determined act of the will not to waste time on anything that is worthless. Will you put into practice that same desire this week? memorize “Your word I have hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against You.” Psalm 119:11 “Open my eyes, that I may see wondrous things from Your law.” Psalm 119:18

Lesson 86

The Magnificent Alphabetic Psalm, Continued Psalm 119:41-80

background notes



Look for friends who know the Bible. questions 1. What is the main theme of Psalm 119?

2. Give some of the synonyms (alternate words) used to describe the Word of God in this psalm.

3. What is the theme of verses 49-56? 4. What does the psalmist mean by a heart covered with fat (verse 70)? 5. What is the encouragement in verse 73?

answers 1. The practical use of the word of God in the life of the believer 2. Law, testimony, precepts, statutes, way, commandments, ordinances, judgments, words, and path 3. The hope and comfort we can receive through the Word of God 4. He is talking about a heart that is insensitive to God‟s Word. There are a lot of fat-covered hearts around today! 5. Since God made us, He can certainly give us understanding of His Word. Ask Him to help you understand! discuss\ consider

1. It is a tendency of Christians to see the word “salvation” and immediately think it means salvation from heaven to hell. But the word simply means “deliverance” or “rescue.” Discuss how we use this word in common usage – “I saved this leftover pizza” or “I saved money with a coupon.” Look at the word “salvation” in Psalm 119:41. Discuss how the word of God brings us “salvation” because it has all the answers to life. 2. In Psalm 119:65-71 the psalmist proclaims that God‟s discipline of him was good, because it taught him to keep the Word. He also acknowledges that the evil God allows to be directed towards him was good, because as a result he learned the ways and statues of God. Can you look back on some experiences of your life and say the same thing? Share some of these difficult times, if you are willing. challenge How do your pick your close friends? The psalmist wanted close friends who love the Lord and know the Bible. Will you pray, as he did, that the Lord will bring these kinds of friends across his path? memorize “Let Your mercies come also to me, O LORD – Your salvation according to Your word. So shall I have an answer for him who reproaches me, for I trust in Your word.” Psalm 119:41-42 “I know, O LORD, that Your judgments are right, and that in faithfulness You have afflicted me.” Psalm 119:75

Lesson 87

An Alphabetic Acrostic Psalm, continued Psalm 119:81-128

background notes


The Word of God is Perfect and Sufficient. practical application

Look beyond the gold! questions 1. Review the major theme of Psalm 119.

2. What is the theme of verses 81-88?

3. What interesting fact was mentioned about verse 92? 4. What is the theme of verses 97-104? 5. What reassurance do we hear in verse 119?

answers 1. The Word of God and its use in the life of the believer 2. The sufficiency of God‟s Word in the time of affliction 3. Martin Luther wrote this verse on the cover of his Bible. 4. We gain true wisdom through the Word, which is sweet to our souls. 5. In the end, the wicked will be removed from the earth as scum off of molten metal. discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 119:92-95 remind us that the Word of God is certain, sure, reliable, and permanent. We can find help and victory in time of need and affliction. Recall a time that God‟s Word was this to you. Take a minute to thank God for His Word. 2. If you as a believer know the Word of God and live by it, you will have more wisdom than your enemies, teachers, or the elderly sages of this secular world. Joseph and Daniel are outstanding examples of this truth from the Old Testament. Think of some other biblical or extra-biblical examples. challenge Are you reluctant to read and obey God‟s Word? Strive to be like the psalmist who found God‟s Word to be sweeter than honey (verse 103). memorize “Unless Your law had been my delight, I would then have perished in my affliction.” Psalm 119:92 “How sweet are Your words to my taste, Sweeter than honey to my mouth!” Psalm 119:103 “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 119:105

Lesson 88

The Final Verses of this Alphabetic Acrostic Psalm Psalm 119:129-176

background notes



Don‟t miss the major point of Psalm 119. questions 1. Review the structure of Psalm 119.

2. What is the teaching of verse 130?

3. How could the psalmist have confidence that the Lord would answer him any time he cried out (verses 145-152)? 4. What is the emphasis of verses 161-168? 5. Did the psalmist literally pray seven times a day (verse 164)? 6. What is the major point of Psalm 119?

answers 1. This alphabetic acrostic psalm goes in sequence through the Hebrew alphabet with 8 verses of Hebrew poetry for each of the 22 letters. Almost all 176 verses address the practical use of the Word of God in the life of the believer. 2. The Bible gives light and understanding to anyone who simply comes to the Lord and wants to know and keep God‟s Word. 3. Because of the truth and reliability of the Word of God 4. Rejoicing in God‟s Word 5. Not necessarily. Seven is the number of perfection or completeness, so this verse speaks of continuous praise. 6. It is not the impressive design of this psalm; the most important point is the emphasis on the importance of the Word of God. discuss\ consider

1. Recall a time that you felt small and despised in the eyes of the world (verse 141). How did God vindicate you and show that standing on His eternal righteous Word made you a giant? 2. Compare verses 147 and 148 of Psalm 119. Evidently it is not more spiritual to have your personal Bible study early in the morning or late at night. What time of day have you found works best for you? How have you been able to make this a consistent part of your daily routine? challenge In addition to your eternal deliverance, any deliverance you experience in this life will be based on the Word of God. While His deliverance may involve discipline and testing, you can be sure God is willing and able to deliver you. memorize “I rise before the dawning of the morning, and cry for help; I hope in Your word. My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I may meditate on Your word.” Psalm 119:147-148

Lesson 89

Promises of Protection for the Believer Psalms 120 & 121

background notes


1. The Lord will avenge the faithful believer. 2. The Lord will protect the believer from all evil. practical application

1. Never take your own revenge! 2. Praise the Lord when you look at the mountains. questions 1. Psalm 120 begins what subset of psalms?

2. Explain the view of these psalms involving King Hezekiah.

3. Give a possible occasion for Psalm 120, if it was written by King Hezekiah. 4. Is Psalm 121:1 a question or a statement? Explain both options.

answers 1. Psalms 120-134 are a group known as the Psalms of Ascent or Degrees. These were psalms that the pilgrims sang as they went up to Jerusalem and up to the Temple of the Lord during the annual feast days in Israel. 2. These may be called the Psalms of Degrees because King Hezekiah arranged this group of psalms to commemorate the 15 years that God added to his life. In this view, the psalms are structured with the central psalm written by Solomon, then 2 preceding and following by David, and the first and last 5 psalms anonymously written by Hezekiah. 3. This psalm would have been written after the Lord answered Hezekiah‟s prayers for deliverance from the besieging Assyrian army under Sennacherib. 4. If it is a question, then the thought is that Israel‟s God was not one of the pagan mountain gods, but is beyond the mountains. If it is a statement, the pilgrims journeying up to the Temple in mountainous Jerusalem were looking to the Lord whose presence and glory were at the Temple in the midst of His people. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss why we often have such a strong craving to seek our own vengeance. What did the psalmist learn about the Lord‟s revenge in Psalm 120? Compare Romans 12:19 2. Discuss the many ways people seek security in their lives. Psalm 121 teaches us that the source of all security and help is the Lord who made heaven and earth and controls all things. challenge Do you live somewhere in view of the mountains? Do you see them when you travel? Praise the Lord when you look at the mountains. memorize “I will lift up my eyes to the hills – From whence comes my help? My help comes from the LORD, Who made heaven and earth. He will not allow your foot to be moved; He who keeps you will not slumber. Behold, He who keeps Israel shall neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD is your keeper; The LORD is your shade at your right hand. The sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The LORD shall preserve your going out and your coming in from this time forth, and even forevermore.” Psalm 121

Lesson 90

The Peace and Significant Position of Jerusalem & Confidence in the Lord’s Grace and Mercy



1. The city of Jerusalem is still central to God‟s program. 2. God gives grace to help in time of need. practical application

1. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. 2. Expect deliverance from the mockery of unbelievers. questions 1. Give a possible occasion for Psalm 122.

2. To what part of the earth will the Lord return one day?

3. What city on earth will become the capital of our Lord‟s kingdom? 4. What is the topic of Psalm 123?

5. Give a possible occasion for Psalm 123.

answers 1. This psalm may have been written by David shortly after he brought the Ark up to Jerusalem, the new capital of the nation. 2. To the Mount of Olives, which is part of Jerusalem (see Zechariah 14:3-4) 3. Jerusalem (see Zechariah 14:9-11). The city of Jerusalem is still central to God‟s program. 4. The psalmist is looking with trust to the Lord for deliverance from those who are mocking God‟s people. 5. If this psalm was written by King Hezekiah, then it could have been at the time of Assyria‟s attack on Jerusalem by Sennacherib. During this Assyrian siege, Rabshakeh, Sennacherib‟s spokesman taunted and mocked the Jews. (See 2 Kings 18) discuss\ consider

1. Discuss what you know of the history of Jerusalem. Do you know about the Jews miraculously regaining control of the Old City after the State of Israel‟s War for Independence in 1948? Jerusalem continues to be a hot topic for political discussion. Lasting peace will one day come to Jerusalem, when the Lord returns. 2. Hebrews 4:16 assures us that God gives grace to help in time of need. This grace will not come too early, or too late, but right in your time of need. Recall a time God has given you grace like this. challenge Pray for the peace of Jerusalem. Will you make this a regular part of your prayer time? memorize “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: „May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, Prosperity within your palaces.‟” Psalm 122:6-7 “Have mercy on us, O LORD, have mercy on us! For we are exceedingly filled with contempt. Our soul is exceedingly filled with the scorn of those who are at ease, With the contempt of the proud.” Psalm 123:3-4

Lesson 91

Israel’s Preservation & Israel’s Peace Psalms 124 & 125

background notes


1. The key to Israel‟s preservation is the Lord‟s protection. 2. The key to Israel‟s peace is her return to the Lord. practical application

1. Thank the Lord for the little word, “if”! 2. Don‟t say that you couldn‟t resist! questions 1. Discuss the authorship of Psalm 124.

2. Read 1 Chronicles 14:13-17. Which part of Psalm 124 might correspond to this remarkable story?

3. What is the topic of Psalm 125? 4. How does Zechariah 13 relate to this psalm? 5. What is the point of Psalm 124:3?

answers 1. Some critics question whether this psalm was written by David as claimed in the title of Psalm 124. They say Israel was not in such dire circumstances as described here during David‟s time. But a careful reading of the wars of David in 2 Samuel 8 and 1 Chronicles 18-20 will assure you that David did indeed face great threats against Israel. 2. verse 7 3. Psalm 125 speaks of the security of God‟s people because the Lord surrounds them, as Jerusalem is protected by the surrounding mountains. 4. Zechariah prophesies about one-third of the nation turning back to the Lord. These are the upright in heart of Psalm 124:4. But the two-thirds that will not turn to the Lord are judged in Psalm 124:5. 5. The divine principle here is that God limits His test of our faith to what we can endure. The Lord will not let the scepter of wickedness come upon us to the point that we don‟t have the power to resist. Compare 1 Corinthians 10:13. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss how the Lord has continued to preserve Israel through the ages as a distinct people with a distinct language and culture – despite being without a homeland for almost 2,000 years! The key to Israel‟s preservation is the Lord‟s protection. 2. Psalm 124 repeats the phrase, “If it had not been the LORD who was on our side…” Discuss how dramatically different your life would be if the Lord had not sovereignly showed you His grace and mercy. challenge Trust in the Lord so you shall not be moved. memorize “If it had not been the LORD who was on our side, when men rose up against us, then they would have swallowed us alive, when their wrath was kindled against us.” Psalm 124:2-3 “As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds His people from this time forth and forever.” Psalm 125:2

Lesson 92

The Lord’s Restoration of Israel & The Importance of Knowing the Lord



1. The Lord can bring about great restorations. 2. Without the Lord, life is fruitless. practical application

1. Are you willing to weep in order to win? 2. Remember the balance of Scripture. questions 1. These psalms are part of what larger collection of psalms?

2. What is the occasion of Psalm 126?

3. In what way is Psalm 126 prophetic? 4. Who was the author of Psalm 127? Did he write any other psalms? 5. What four areas of life does Solomon use to illustrate the point, “Without the Lord, life is fruitless”?

answers 1. They are a part of the 15 Psalms of Ascent, Psalms 120-134. 2. This psalm seems to have been written after the Jews returned from their Babylonian captivity. But if this psalm were written by Hezekiah, over 150 years earlier, it would have been on the occasion of the great and miraculous deliverance of Jerusalem from the Assyrian invasion in 701 BC. 3. Just as the Jewish people were restored following the Assyrian siege or the Babylonian captivity, so there will be a great restoration of Israel to the Lord and to the Land in the future. 4. Psalm 127 was written by King Solomon. The only other psalm attributed to him is Psalm 72. 5. House construction, police protection, daily work, and family life discuss\ consider

1. Psalm 126:5-6 speaks of weeping before winning – the hard work that must occur in order to attain your goal. What goals are you working towards in your life right now? In what ways have you been weeping before you can win? 2. Psalm 127 teaches us that without the Lord, life is fruitless. Can you give examples of this from everyday life, as Solomon did? challenge When we read certain verses, such as from Psalm 127, they could be taken to an extreme. It is important to remember the balance of Scripture in our application. memorize “Those who sow in tears shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, bearing seed for sowing, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” Psalm 126:5-6 “Unless the LORD builds the house, they labor in vain who build it; unless the LORD guards the city, the watchman stays awake in vain.” Psalm 127:1 “Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb is a reward.” Psalm 127:3

Lesson 93

Individuals and Nations that Fear the Lord will be Blessed & Individuals and Nations that Hate Israel will Not be Blessed



1. The individual or nation that fears the Lord will be blessed. 2. The individual or nation that hates Israel will not be blessed. practical application

1. Praise the Lord when you are a grandparent! 2. Take heart, the enemy will not prevail! questions 1. Are the promised blessings of Psalm 128 as valid today for a faithful believer as they were for Israel in Old Testament times? Review the three-part answer. 2. What does it mean to fear the Lord?

3. What promises are given to those who fear the Lord in Psalm 128? 4. Who is personified in Psalm 129? 5. Explain the illustration in verse 6.

answers 1. 1) In the New Testament we see the emphasis on spiritual blessings, not physical or material blessings

2) Even in Old Testament times, these were general principles. At times the righteous suffered and the wicked prospered. 3) Are there other factors involved? For example, Job or Joseph So these wonderful promises can still be taken as general principles today, as long as these points are remembered.

2. This is talking less about cringing in terror and more about showing honor and reverential respect for the Lord. 3. Happiness and blessing in your work (verse 2) and happiness and blessing in your home (verses 3-4) 4. The psalm is written as though Israel is speaking about the many persecutors in her past. 5. As the short-lived grass tried to take root in the thin soil on some of the flat roofs of ancient Israel, so those who hate Israel and the Jewish people would be brought down. discuss\ consider

1. Happiness and the pursuit of it are popular topics in our culture today. What does the world teach us about happiness? How does scripture challenge that perspective? 2. Review the Abrahamic Covenant from Genesis 12:2-3. How does this unconditional covenant relate to Psalm 129? Can you see the principle “The individual or nation that hates Israel will not be blessed” being played out in current events? challenge Though many enemies have afflicted the nation of Israel, they have not prevailed. The same Lord who keeps Israel safe and secure, will guard your soul as well. Be encouraged by 1 John 5:18. memorize “Blessed is every one who fears the LORD, who walks in His ways.” Psalm 128:1 “Many a time they have afflicted me from my youth; yet they have not prevailed against me.” Psalm 129:2

Lesson 94

Waiting in Patient Hope in the Lord for Deliverance Psalms 130 & 131

background notes


1. A believer‟s hurt should result in greater hope in the Lord. 2. A believer‟s humility should result in a greater hope in the Lord. practical application

1. Look up when you lie down. 2. Don‟t be too proud to say, “I don‟t know.” questions 1. What is a possible occasion for Psalm 130, if it was written by King Hezekiah?

2. What is the answer to Psalm 130:3?

3. What was David‟s point in Psalm 131:1? 4. Explain the picture of a weaned child in 131: 2. 5. How does Matthew 18:3-4 relate to this psalm?

answers 1. This could have been when Hezekiah was facing the depths of death (2 Kings 20). The Lord graciously answered Hezekiah‟s prayer of supplication, delivered him, and added 15 years to his life. 2. No one! So praise the Lord that God does not keep a detailed account of our sins and make us pay for them. He can forgive the believer‟s sins – past, present, and future. 3. His point is not that he avoided the challenges of life. His point is to renounce the sins of pride and presumption. 4. The picture of a weaned child, rather than a nursing baby, conveys a maturing trust. 5. This New Testament passage also speaks of a humble, growing, and maturing trust in the Lord like a child. discuss\ consider

1. When some believers hurt they become bitter and blame God. Yet we see in Psalm 130 that the psalmist‟s hurt resulted in greater hope in the Lord. Think back to the last time you were deeply hurt. How did that event affect your faith? 2. Has the Lord ever allowed something in your life that has “knocked you flat on your back”? Sometimes the Lord does this so we turn to Him. Look up when you lie down. challenge What do you do when someone ask you a question in an area where you should know the answer, but don‟t? What is you are asked your opinion on a topic unfamiliar to you? Don‟t be too proud to say, “I don‟t know.” memorize “If You, LORD, should mark iniquities, O Lord, who could stand?” Psalm 130:3 “O Israel, hope in the LORD; for with the LORD there is mercy, and with Him is abundant redemption.” Psalm 130:7 “LORD, my heart is not haughty, nor my eyes lofty. Neither do I concern myself with great matters, nor with things too profound for me. Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me. O Israel, hope in the LORD From this time forth and forever.” Psalm 131

Lesson 95

A Conclusion of the Psalms of Ascent Psalms 132, 133, & 134

background notes


1. The Davidic Covenant was made in response to David‟s priorities. 2. The Davidic Covenant is fulfilled in reference to David‟s progeny. practical application

Keep the Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace. questions 1. What were the Psalms of Ascent?

2. Explain the role of Psalm 134 in the Psalms of Ascent.

3. What desire of David is expressed in Psalm 132? 4. What was the Lord‟s response to David‟s great desire? 5. What is “progeny”? Where is Zion?

answers 1. The Psalms of Ascent are a collection of 15 psalms (Psalm 120-134) which were sung by the pilgrims going up to Jerusalem for the annual feasts of Israel. 2. As the last psalm in the Psalms of Ascent, Psalm 134 is a fitting conclusion. It may have been chosen to be sung as the pilgrims departed from Jerusalem to go back home after the feasts. The priests and Levites who would remain in Jerusalem were exhorted in the song to bless the Lord continually on behalf of the nation. 3. David had a passionate desire to build a great temple for the Lord in Jerusalem. David lost sleep (132:4) because of his occupation with plans for the Lord‟s House. 4. God said that He would build a house for David, that is, a dynasty, and it would continue as long as David‟s descendants followed after the Lord (verses 132:10-12). 5. Progeny is offspring or descendants. Zion refers to the city of Jerusalem. discuss\ consider

1. Not all of David‟s descendants followed the Lord faithfully (see Psalm 132:12). But the Davidic Covenant is still valid through Christ, a Son of David. Discuss how the Lord Jesus will fulfill the Davidic Covenant one day. 2. Compare Ephesians 4:3 and Psalms 133. Unity amongst believers is pleasing to the Lord. What can you do to maintain unity with your fellow believers? What can you actively do to increase unity? challenge Psalm 134 speaks of the Levites serving at the Temple of the Lord at night. Is the worship of the Lord continual in your life? memorize “For the LORD has chosen Zion; He has desired it for His dwelling place.” Psalm 132:13 “Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!” Psalm 133:1 “Behold, bless the LORD, All you servants of the LORD, Who by night stand in the house of the LORD! Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD.” Psalm 134:1-2

Lesson 96

Praise for the Lord’s Sovereignty Psalm 135

background notes


1. The Sovereign Lord chose the descendants of Jacob as His special people. 2. The Sovereign Lord gave the Land of Canaan to His special people. practical application

Don‟t become like an idol! questions 1. What is The Great Hallel?

2. What do we mean by “divine sovereignty”?

3. What special people did God sovereignly choose? 4. What do verses 15-18 show us about the Jewish people? 5. What does Psalm 135 show us about the extent of the Land given to the Jewish people?

answers 1. Hallel is the Hebrew word for “praise.” Psalms 120-136, all great psalms of praise, are collectively called The Great Hallel. 2. By divine sovereignty, we mean that God is in control of everything and He directs all things as He pleases. 3. God chose the descendants of Abraham through Jacob to be His special people (verse 4). 4. These verses show that the Jewish people were unique among all the peoples of the ancient world, because their God was the one true God. All other nations worshipped idols, the work of men‟s hands. 5. We see in verses 11-12 that God promised Land on the east side of the Jordan River to the Jewish people as well. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the Jewish people as God‟s special people. What does Romans 11 teach us about the Jews‟ place today? 2. If we define an idol as anything that keeps God from being #1 in your life, do you have any idols? How can your adjust your priorities so you do not become spiritually deaf, dumb, and blind? challenge Psalm 135 begins and ends with a call to “Praise the Lord.” How will you respond to this call? memorize “For the LORD has chosen Jacob for Himself, Israel for His special treasure.” Psalm 135:4 “Your name, O LORD, endures forever, Your fame, O LORD, throughout all generations.” Psalm 135:13

Lesson 97

The Great Hallel Psalm 136

background notes


1. Believers should praise the Lord for His lovingkindness in creation. 2. Believers should praise the Lord for His lovingkindness in history. practical application

1. Don‟t forget the obvious proof of the Lord‟s love. 2. Pray through your history. questions 1. What is The Great Hallel?

2. Is Psalm 136 a psalm of praise or a historical psalm?

3. There is a common refrain repeated throughout Psalm 136, although this refrain may appear quite different in various translations. Explain this. 4. What is the subject of Psalm 136:10-22? 5. Why does the land of Israel belong to the Jewish people?

answers 1. While Psalms 120-136, all psalms of great praise, are collectively referred to as The Great Hallel, Psalm 136 itself is called The Great Hallel. Hallel is the Hebrew word for “praise.” 2. Both! In this great praise psalm the Lord is praised for His great acts throughout history. 3. Each of the 26 verses ends with the phrase “for His mercy endures forever,” or “His love endures forever,” or “His lovingkindness is everlasting.” The variant translations are due to the Hebrew word “hesed,” which is very difficult to translate with one English word. Hesed can best be described as God‟s loyal, covenant love for His people. 4. In these verses the psalmist prays through Israel‟s history – especially the Exodus and the Conquest, and praises the Lord for every event. The psalmist sees the sovereign hand of God behind all of these events working on behalf of His people 5. Because the land was given to Israel as an inheritance by God Himself (verses 21-22). discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the Lord‟s “hesed,” His loyal, covenant love for His people. Does He have this sort of love for you? How do you respond to this lovingkindness? 2. Have you ever prayed through your history as a way to praise the Lord? We can all look back at our lives and see the Lord‟s hand at work. Why not use this as a way to praise Him. challenge Israel was challenged to remember how the Lord has saved us, protected us, and provided for us in His loyal love. You can look to the same as obvious proof of the Lord‟s love. memorize “Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalm 136:1 “Oh, give thanks to the God of heaven! For His mercy endures forever.” Psalm 136:26

Lesson 98

The Song of the Exiles Psalm 137

background notes


1. Prayers for Jerusalem are still valid today. 2. Prayers of Imprecation are still valid today. practical application

Don‟t cheer for the wrong side! questions 1. What is the topic of Psalm 137?

2. What are the Rivers of Babylon (verse 1)?

3. Are prayers for Jerusalem still valid for Christians today? 4. What is imprecation? 5. Do the imprecatory psalms contradict the Lord‟ teachings in passages like Matthew 5:44? 6. Who were the Edomites (verse 7)?

answers 1. This psalm voices the mourning of the Jewish people as they look back and remember their days of captivity in Babylon. 2. This would be the Euphrates River and its tributaries including the numerous canals of Babylon. 3. Yes, in light of the Abrahamic Covenant we know that God has still promised the land of Jerusalem to His people. We also know that the Lord‟s future kingdom will be established in Jerusalem. 4. To imprecate means to curse. In an imprecatory psalm, the psalmist calls down God‟s curse upon his enemies. 5. Not if you realize the important fact that imprecatory psalms are not calls for personal revenge, but prayers that the righteous standards of God will be maintained. 6. Since the Edomites were descendants of Esau, the older brother of Jacob, the Edomites were relatives of the Jewish people. But the Edomites did not come to Judah‟s aid when Judah was attacked by the Babylonians. discuss\ consider

Discuss whether there is a place for imprecatory prayers in the life of a believer today. When would such a prayer be appropriate? challenge Don‟t be like the Edomites who cheered for the wrong side when the Babylonians attacked Israel. Be aware of the negative influences that may be behind a cause you support. memorize “By the rivers of Babylon, there we sat down, yea, we wept when we remembered Zion.” Psalm 137:1 “If I forget you, O Jerusalem, let my right hand forget its skill!” Psalm 137:5

Lesson 99

A Great Psalm of Thanksgiving & David’s Prayer for Deliverance

Psalm 138 & Psalm 140 background notes


1. A believer‟s praise of the Lord should be courageous, motivating, and authentic. 2. A believer‟s praise about the wicked should emphasize God‟s righteousness. practical application

Don‟t lose your focus. questions 1. Who was the author of Psalm 138?

2. Where was David willing to praise the Lord?

3. Give the possible occasion for Psalm 140. 4. Why are some Christians disturbed by the second half of Psalm 140? 5. Review the key to understanding imprecatory psalms.

answers 1. This wonderful psalm of thanksgiving and praise was written by David. We don‟t know the occasion, but it was a situation where David needed boldness and strength and the Lord answered him. 2. Psalm 138:1-3 showed that David was not ashamed to praise the Lord in public. 3. This psalm was most likely written during the time David was running from King Saul before he was king, or when he had to flee from Jerusalem at the time of Absalom‟s rebellion. 4. This imprecatory psalm, calling for God‟s judgment of his enemies, seems to some people to conflict with the Lord‟s New Testament teaching to “love your enemies.” 5. We must see that the author is not seeking his own vengeance, but is asking for God‟s judgment to come down on his enemies. discuss\ consider

1. David‟s praise of the Lord was authentic – he was not simply going through the motions of praise. What about you? Worship or praise has been described as our “mind‟s attention and heart‟s affection” focused on God. How can you move toward more authentic praise? 2. “We are never told to love our enemies at the expense of God‟s righteousness.” Discuss how we as believers should properly approach those who flagrantly oppose the righteousness of God. challenge David saw the big picture – he wanted the Lord to preserve his life, but more than that he wanted wickedness to be judged and justice to prevail. Be like David, don‟t lose your focus. memorize “Though the LORD is on high, yet He regards the lowly; but the proud He knows from afar.” Psalm 138:6 “Do not grant, O LORD, the desires of the wicked; do not further his wicked scheme, lest they be exalted.” Psalm 140:8

Lesson 100

Four Great Attributes of God Psalm 139

background notes


1. Believers should acknowledge and praise the Lord for His omniscience. 2. Believers should acknowledge and praise the Lord for His omnipresence. 3. Believers should acknowledge and praise the Lord for His omnipotence. 4. Believers should acknowledge and praise the Lord for His holiness. practical application

Are we willing to pray, “Search me, O God”? questions 1. What attributes of God are highlighted in Psalm 139?

2. Define omniscience. Define omnipresence.

3. Is David frightened or comforted by God‟s attributes? 4. In Psalm 19 David looked to the stars as evidence of God‟s omnipotence. What does he look to here? 5. What is the result of God‟s holiness in Psalm 139?

answers 1.

His omniscience (verses 1-6)

His omnipresence (verses 7-12)

His omnipotence (verses 13-18)

His holiness (verses 19-24) 2. Omniscience means that God has complete knowledge of everything. Omnipresence means that all of God is in all places at all times. 3. God‟s omnipresence is a comfort to David (verses 11-12), he felt secure because of this truth. 4. Here he looks to the wonderful development of the fetus in his mother‟s womb to appreciate the wisdom and power of God. 5. We see in verses 19-22 that because of God‟s holiness evil men and those who hate God and His people will be destroyed. discuss\ consider

1. Which of the attributes of God described in Psalm 139 is most significant to you? How does this attribute affect you as His creation? 2. David praises God for His creation of human beings inside a mother‟s womb from the beginning. How does this viewpoint differ from our society today? Consider the implication on your own view of abortion, physical and mental disabilities, physical beauty, etc. challenge What would the Lord find if you prayed, “Search me, O God”? Would you be willing to have God take away and change anything wicked that He found? memorize “O LORD, You have searched me and known me.” Psalm 139:1 “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, And that my soul knows very well.” Psalm 139:14 “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.” Psalm 139:23-24

Lesson 101

David Prays to be Kept from the Wicked & David’s Only Hope for Deliverance



1. Request for reproof is evidence of godliness. 2. Help from Heaven is available for the godly. practical application

1. Shut the barn door before the horse escapes! 2. When you are down, look up! questions 1. To what did David compare his prayers in Psalm 141:2? Is there a New Testament correlation?

2. What unusual request does David make in Psalm 141?

3. What does David mean by “eat of their delicacies” in verse 4? 4. What can we learn from the title of Psalm 142? 5. What promise do we find in Proverbs 3:5-6?

answers 1. David likens his prayer to the offering of incense at the time of the evening sacrifice at the tabernacle. Hebrews 13:15 tells us our prayers and praises can also be sacrifices of worship to the Lord. See also Revelation 8:3-4. 2. In verse 5 David prays that believers more righteous than himself would rebuke him and reprove him, and that he would not refuse this anointing even though it would not be pleasant. 3. To eat of their delicacies would mean having fellowship with the wicked. David frequently prayed for God to keep him from following the ways of the wicked. 4. This “Maschil” of David is a contemplation or teaching poem. It was most likely written when David and his men were hiding in a cave when he was escaping from King Saul. 5. If we trust in the Lord He will direct our paths. discuss\ consider

1. Have you ever been rebuked or reproved by another believer? How did you respond? It takes a great measure of maturity to accept rebuke and see if for our good. 2. When David looked for human help in Psalm 142 there was no one there. So he looked to the Lord and poured out his heart to Him. Where do you tend to turn first for help? How can you learn with David to turn to the Lord for help instead? challenge Picture your words as a mighty horse ready to break loose and run. Will you keep your barn door shut? memorize “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.” Psalm 141:3 “Let the righteous strike me; it shall be a kindness. And let him rebuke me; it shall be as excellent oil; Let my head not refuse it.” Psalm 141:5

Lesson 102

The Last of David’s Penitential Psalms & The Key to Success and Happiness



1. There is a biblical position for the penitent. 2. Godly people have the key to happiness. practical application

1. Don‟t jump to the wrong conclusion about God‟s discipline! 2. Don‟t forget the prophetic implications of the psalms. questions 1. What is a penitential psalm? Which psalms are penitential psalms?

2. Give a few examples of penitential acts that do not reflect the biblical position of penitence.

3. Review the five aspects of biblical penitence drawn from Psalm 143. 4. What is interesting about the content of Psalm 144? 5. Give an outline for Psalm 144.

answers 1. In a penitential psalm, the psalmist recognizes that his distress and trouble are because of his own sin and thus his lament is a confession of sin. The seven penitential psalms are Psalms 6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, and 143. 2. Doing some act of penance such as self-flagellation, practicing asceticism, or going on a pilgrimage are not biblical models of penitence. 3. 1) Confess our sin and acknowledge that we deserve God‟s righteous judgment. (verses 1-2) 2) Recognize that God uses all kinds of discipline in our lives. (verses 3-4) 3) Long for the blessings of the past before sin came in to disrupt our fellowship with the Lord. (verses 5-6) 4) Desire to be taught and guided in the ways of the Lord – not your own ways. (verses 7-10) 5) Want God‟s glory, righteousness, and loyal love to be magnified. (verses 11-12) 4. This psalm contains 9 quotations from other psalms, especially Psalm 18. 5. Praise to the Lord for past victories – verses 1-4 Confident prayer for present deliverance – verses 5-11 A look to the Lord‟s promised future blessings – verses 12-14 The key to happiness \ The secret of success – verse 15 discuss\ consider

1. In Psalm 143 we see how David reacts when faced with sin in his own life. Looking at the five aspects of biblical penitence above, discuss why it is often hard for us to have the right mindset about our sin. Do you find it easier to fall into false guilt or over-compensation for your sin? How can you implement this model of biblical penitence in your life? 2. Think of the various “secrets of success” you have heard people discuss within the last month. Psalm 144 contains the true key to happiness! It is to know the God of the Bible and make Him Lord of your life (Psalm 144:15). challenge The Bible clearly teaches that God can use sickness and distress – even death – to discipline His erring children. But don‟t assume that every time you or someone else is sick or experience hard times that it is God‟s discipline for some sin in your life. memorize “I spread out my hands to You; My soul longs for You like a thirsty land.” Psalm 143:6 “Cause me to hear Your lovingkindness in the morning, for in You do I trust; cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to You.” Psalm 143:8 “Happy are the people whose God is the LORD!” Psalm 144:15

Lesson 103

Two Praise Psalms Psalms 145 & 146

background notes


1. God is great in His greatness, goodness, glory, and grace. 2. God does not have human limitations. practical application

1. Don‟t take away from God‟s greatness. 2. Remember, blindness and imprisonment can be more than physical. questions 1. How many times does the term “a psalm of praise” occur in the book of Psalms?

2. Give an outline of Psalm 145.

3. What should be our response to the greatness of God? 4. Psalm 146 begins what subsection of the book of Psalms? 5. Give an example of blindness and imprisonment being more than physical.

answers 1. Only once! Here in the title of Psalm 145. 2. The great Greatness of God – verses 1-6 The great Goodness of God – verses 7-10 The great Glory of God – verses 11-13 The great Grace of God – verses 14-21 3. As believers, we should not only meditate upon God‟s great greatness (verse 5), but we should tell it to others – to our children and the next generation (verse 4) and to everyone with whom we come in contact (verses 6-7). 4. Psalms 146-150 are known as the Last Hallel. Hallel is the Hebrew word for praise; hallelujah means “Praise the Lord.” Each of these last 5 psalms begins and ends with “Praise the Lord.” 5. People can be spiritually blinded to the truth by Satan. They can be imprisoned by certain additions and lifestyles. The Lord can deliver us from all kinds of blindness and imprisonments. discuss\ consider

1. Discuss the great greatness, goodness, glory, and grace of God. Which is most significant to you in your spiritual life right now? 2. Discuss which of your fellow human beings you put your confidence in each day. We must remember that while it is good to trust in one another, all of these people have human limitations. The Lord is the only one who is worthy of our complete trust. He will never let us down. challenge Does your prayer life center around requests instead of praise? Don‟t take away from God‟s greatness. Be like David and be sure that our prayers are heavy in praise to the Lord. memorize “Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised.” Psalm 145:3 “The LORD is near to all who call upon Him, to all who call upon Him in truth.” Psalm 145:18 “While I live I will praise the LORD; I will sing praises to my God while I have my being.” Psalm 146:2

Lesson 104

The God of Nature & The God of Israel Psalm 147

background notes


1. The Lord should be praised as the God of nature. 2. The Lord should be praised as the God of nations. practical application

1. Put the spiritual higher than the physical on your priority list. 2. Praise the Lord with music! 3. Remember, God is not finished with the big “I”. questions 1. What is the double theme of Psalm 147?

2. Why is it significant that young ravens are mentioned in verse 9?

3. What makes the nation of Israel special in verses 19-20? 4. What was probably the historical occasion for Psalm 147? 5. What are the prophetic implications in Psalm 147?

answers 1. Praise for the Lord as the God of Nature and Praise for the Lord as the God of Israel. 2. Young ravens have to fend for themselves. The parent ravens are very selfish and don‟t share their food with their young. That is why the miracle of the ravens feeing Elijah was so amazing. 3. Israel, unique from other nations, was given God‟s statutes and ordinances – that is, the Law through Moses. 4. The historical context of this psalm appears to be when Israel came back from the Babylonian captivity and rebuilt Jerusalem, including the walls and gates under Nehemiah. 5. Verse 3 looks beyond Israel‟s restoration from their Babylonian captivity to the restoration of Israel at the time of the Lord‟s return. Also, there has not been peace within Israel‟s borders since this psalm was written, but there will be when the Lord returns (verses 13-14). discuss\ consider

What season are you experiencing right now? What do you love best about this season? How can you see the Lord‟s glory reflected in His creation right now? challenge Praise the Lord with music! Take some time this week to sing praises to the Lord – during your quiet time, in the car, or while you‟re cooking dinner. Sing praise to the Lord! memorize “Praise the LORD! For it is good to sing praises to our God; for it is pleasant, and praise is beautiful.” Psalm 147:1 “He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name.” Psalm 147:4

Lesson 105

Universal Acknowledgement of Who God is and All that He Has Done Psalms 148, 149, & 150

background notes


1. The Lord should be praised from the heavens and from the earth. 2. The Lord should be praised with our lips and with our lives. 3. The Lord should be praised in quiet meditation and in loud celebration. practical application

1. Praise the Lord if you‟re still breathing! 2. For your everything need, there‟s a psalm to read and heed. questions 1. These psalms are part of what subsection of the book of Psalms?

2. How can the sun, moon, and stars praise the Lord (Psalm 148:3)?

3. In what particular way did the psalmist exhort the people to praise the Lord with their lives in Psalm 149? 4. When will the judgment of Psalm 149 take place?

answers 1. Psalms 146-150 are known as the Last Hallel. Hallel is the Hebrew word for praise; hallelujah means “Praise the Lord.” Each of these last 5 psalms begins and ends with “Praise the Lord.” 2. When anything that God created functions in the way that God designed it to function, it brings glory and thus praise to the Creator. 3. By carrying out the Lord‟s judgment on the nations 4. In context this specifically refers to the future earthly kingdom of our Lord when the Lord will judge the nations and rule the nations with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:15). At that time restored Israel will sing a new song and rule and reign with Christ. discuss\ consider

1. In Psalm 148 we notice that the Creator is to be worshipped, and not the things He has created. The next time you are outside enjoying God‟s wonderful creation, be sure your thoughts don‟t just stop there – turn your praise to the One who made all of nature. 2. Psalm 150 shows us that the Lord can be praised in quiet meditation as well as in loud celebration. Discuss times in your life when these different styles have seemed more fitting. The Lord can be praised in many ways! challenge Through our study of the book of Psalms, we have seen that the Psalms cover every area of life and can bring hope, encouragement, strength, and comfort. Continue studying the psalms – there is wisdom here for a lifetime! memorize “Let them praise the name of the LORD, for His name alone is exalted; His glory is above the earth and heaven.” Psalm 148:13 “For the LORD takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation.” Psalm 149:4 “Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD!” Psalm 150:6

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Psalms - Growing Christians Ministries

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