Truth 101 Class

  Psalm 44 is a corporate lament over defeat that the people of Israel have suffered at the hands of the enemy.  Verses 1-8 recount how God gave them victory in the past.  However verses 9-22 voice confusion over the present defeat.  Then, verses 23-26 close with a plea for God's deliverance.  This psalm reminds us that when facing present difficulties, it is good to remember God's faithfulness in the past and cling to the hope of God's promises for the future. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-8 As God's deliverance is recounted, verse 8 summarizes this section with boasting in God and giving thanks to His name forever.  What are some of the great things that God has done in my life for which I can give thanks? Verses 9-22 Confusion is reflected in these verses due to defeat and disgrace despite being faithful to the covenant.  What are some trials that we have faced, even though we did not fully u

  Psalm 43 is like the last stanza of the song begun in Psalm 42, since it has the same refrain and no subtitle. In verses 1 & 2, the psalmist prays to God about his external and internal struggles, however, by verses 3 & 4, he is able to turn his focus to God's light, truth, and joy.  The refrain closes with hope for the future despite present circumstances. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 Using court language with words like "vindicate" and "defend," the psalmist sees God as both Judge and Advocate.  How is this perspective useful when I am faced with attacks from others? Verse 2 Like the psalmist, there are times when we might ask God "Why?"  What are some of "Why?" questions to which I am currently seeking answers? Verses 3-4 In what ways can God's "light" and "truth" lead and guide me? Verse 5 We can see a spiritual progression from t

  Psalm 42 is the beginning of Book 2 of the Psalms.  While in Book 1, David most often referred to God as Yahweh or LORD, Book 2 more often refers to God as Elohim .  The subtitle of this psalm is a reminder of God's grace and restoration that the Sons of Korah became worship leaders, despite Korah's rebellion in Numbers 16.  This psalm records the cries of a discouraged soul, longing to worship at the house of God while enemies taunt him asking "Where is your God?" The refrain in verses 5 and 11 summarizes that when our souls are downcast or in turmoil, we can " HOPE in God" and look forward to praising Him again! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What analogies can be made between a thirsty deer needing water and my soul going through a spiritual drought? Verse 3-4 When we feel far away from God's presence or the world is taunting us about God, why is it helpful to remember wo

  Psalm 41 is the last psalm in Book 1 of the Psalms.  Verse 1 starts with " Blessed " just as Psalm 1:1 does at the beginning of Book 1.  Here, the righteous are those who "consider the poor."  Blessings to the righteous include the LORD's deliverance, protection, sustenance, and restoration.  The psalmist also prays for God's grace and healing as he faces his sins and his enemies.  In John 13:18 Jesus quoted Psalm 40:9, referring to Judas as the one who will inflict a painful wound through the betrayal of friendship.  This psalm and Book 1 closes with a doxology to offer grateful blessings to the LORD forever.  Amen and Amen! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 The "poor" in verse 1 do not just refer to those who are in economic poverty but can more broadly include those in any need, whether physical or spiritual. In what ways can I fulfill the command to love my neighbor by