Truth 101 Class

  Psalm 96 is in the series of psalms that call us to worship our LORD the great King and Creator.  There is a universal emphasis for ALL the earth (vv. 1,9), the nations (v. 3), ALL the peoples (v. 3), families of the peoples (v. 7), and all creation (vv. 11-12) to worship, anticipating the coming of Christ to establish His Kingdom and to judge in righteousness.  NOTE:  Psalm 96 is similar to the text in 1 Chronicles 16:23-33 written by David for the occasion of bringing the Ark to Jerusalem. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-13 With a New Year upon us, what "new songs" of praise can we sing to the LORD? What glorious things of God are we to praise Him for, as indicated in these verses? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Today is Born Our Savior, Christ the Lord" (Psalm 96) by Francesca LaRosa: Link

  Psalm 95 begins with an invitation to worship the LORD our God, King, and Creator.  But, it ends with a warning that those with hard hearts will not enter His rest. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-7 What are some of the ways we can worship God as described in these verses? What do these verses tell us about why God is worthy of our worship? Verses 8-11 In the hardness of their hearts, Israel rebelled against God and tested Him in the wilderness at Meribah and Massah (ref. Exodus 17:1-7; Numbers 20:1-13).  Pray for softened hearts for those we know who have gone astray or do not know God's ways (v. 10). Hebrews chapters 3-4 quote these verses.  What do the parallels between the rest in the Promised Land and rest through salvation by grace teach us? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Come Let Us Worship and Bow Down" by th...

  Psalm 94 is a cry for God to rise up, judge, and take vengeance upon the wicked for their injustices.  The wicked who are arrogant and senseless are contrasted with the righteous who are sustained and comforted by the LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-11 What injustices do we see around us that would cause us to pray for God to rise up, judge, and take vengeance?  Verses 12-21 How do these verses provide encouragement for the righteous in spite of the wickedness in the world? In what ways has the LORD held me up and comforted my soul (vv. 18-19) If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 94" by Sons of Korah:   Link

  Psalm 93 is part of a group of psalms (Psalms 47, 95-100) that declare God's reign over all creation. The LORD sits on the throne and is mightier than any thunderous waves of the sea.  He reigns with truth and holiness forever. Amen! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 Are there any areas of my life that still need to be submitted under the LORD's kingship? Verses 3-4 Through what thunderous floods and waves in my life do I need to be reminded that God is mightier than them all? Verse 5 Knowing God's Word is trustworthy and that He is Holy, how should I respond? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "The Lord Almighty Reigns" (Psalm 93) by Sovereign Grace Music: Link

  Based on the title, Psalm 92 is a song for the Sabbath which is a day set apart for rest and worship. It is filled with thanksgiving and praise for who God is and for His great works!  The wicked who flourish temporarily like grass are contrasted with the righteous who, even in old age, still produce fruit and remain vital and green. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 The word "good" can mean fitting, beneficial, right, beautiful, pleasant, agreeable, welcome, appropriate, or satisfying.  So, in what ways is it good to give thanks and sing praises to the LORD? Verses 4-9 How are the wicked described? Verses 10-15 In contrast to the wicked, how are the righteous described? In what ways can I continue to bear fruit and remain vital and green even to old age? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Great is Your Faithfulness" (P...

  Because Psalm 91 does not have a title, it is uncertain who wrote it.  Nevertheless, it gives assurance to those who love God and dwell in Him.  God will deliver and protect the righteous during troubles. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 Names of God referenced in these verses are Most High ( Elyon ), Almighty ( Shaddai ), LORD ( Yahweh ), and God ( Elohim ).  How do these give assurance to those of us who abide and trust in Him? Verses 3-10 In what ways has God delivered and protected me? Verses 11-12 Satan misused these verses when trying to tempt Jesus in the wilderness (Matthew 4:6 and Luke 4:10-11), but Jesus responded with "You shall not put the Lord your God to the test" (Deuteronomy 6:`16).  How might this psalm sometimes be similarly misunderstood? Verse 13 In Scripture, the Enemy has been depicted as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8) and a serpent (Genesis 3).  How does this v...

  Psalm 90 is the first psalm in Book IV. It is a prayer of Moses as he contrasts the eternity of God with the brevity of human life.  Moses recognizes the sins of Israel in the wilderness and asks for God's restoration.  The closing prayer is for God's favor to establish the work of their hands.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What is my response when I contemplate the privilege of being able to abide in the eternal God our "dwelling place"? Verses 3-6 In what ways does knowing life on earth is short compared with the eternity of God shape my perspective? Verses 7-11 How does sin affect my relationship with God? Verse 12 Since God is the source of all wisdom, what does it mean to "get a heart of wisdom"? Verses 13-17 What are the joys of a restored relationship with God? How might the work of my hands be "established" by God? If you would like to meditate on this psalm th...

  Psalm 89 is the last psalm in Book III.  Verses 1-18 focus on the glory of the LORD, 19-37 on the Davidic Covenant, and 38-51 on laments.  Then, verse 52 concludes Book III with a doxology.  In this last section, the psalmist is having difficulty understanding present circumstances, because they seem to conflict with the covenant promises that he praised God for in verses 1-37.  However, he also recognizes that the people have sinned and broken the covenant.  Thus, he appeals to God's steadfast love and faithfulness.  By closing with praise, he acknowledges, as in the beginning of the psalm, that God can be trusted to fulfill His promises because of who He is forever. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 38-45 When are times I have struggled to understand difficult circumstances? How does keeping the eternal perspective help us through challenging times? Verses 46-51 In what ways does...

  Psalm 89 is the last psalm in Book III.  Verses 1-18 focus on the glory of the LORD, 19-37 on the Davidic Covenant, and 38-51 on laments.  Then, verse 52 concludes Book III with a doxology.  This middle part of the psalm shares similarities with the narration in 2 Samuel 7:4-17 of the words God gave the prophet Nathan to speak to King David. The eternal promises of the covenant are ultimately fulfilled in Jesus Christ. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 19-28 These verses describe promises God made in His covenant to David.  Through my covenant relationship with the LORD, what are some of the promises on which I can stand firm? Verses 29-37 These verses show that while there are consequences to David's descendants breaking the covenant, yet God will remain faithful and will not remove His steadfast love.  In what ways does God's discipline still reflect His love for us? Verses 36 & 3...

  Psalm 89 is the last psalm in Book III.  Verses 1-18 focus on the glory of the LORD, 19-37 on the Davidic Covenant, and 38-51 on laments.  Then, verse 52 concludes Book III with a doxology.  The first part of the psalm sings of the steadfast love and faithfulness of the LORD forever.  God's glory is seen through His wondrous works of creation and His might over enemies.  His people are blessed! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 This psalm is sometimes referred to as the Covenant Psalm.  For a psalm on the covenant of the LORD, why do God's attributes of steadfast love ( i.e., unfailing love, lovingkindness, mercies ) and faithfulness ( i.e., fidelity, truth ) even more so inspire praise forever? Verses 5-14 In these verses, all creation joyously gives praise to God.  Joining in with all creation, what can I praise God for today? Verses 15-18 Based on these verses, what are...

  Psalm 88 is another song of the Sons of Korah.  Heman was likely the Kohathite who, listed with Asaph and Jeduthun in 1 Chronicles 25:1 and 2 Chronicles 5:12, was a worship leader. This is considered one of the darkest psalms.  It is a prayer from a troubled lonely soul in the midst of deepest despair crying out to God from the pit of death, having experienced the wrath of God due to his sins.  This psalm uncharacteristically does not end in praise.  So the psalmist is still in darkness waiting for the light of hope yet to come, praying "day and night" in faith. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-18 When are times I may feel like my troubles keep crashing onto me like continuous and overwhelming ocean "waves" (v. 7)? During times of deepest darkness, even when I feel like I have not received any answers, why should I continue to seek God in prayer (verses 1,2,9,&13)? In church tradition...

  Psalm 87 is another psalm of the Sons of Korah.  It is about the glory of Zion, the city of God.  Zion's foundation is established by God and from it springs the fountain of life for those who are registered as born-again citizens of His Kingdom. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 Since Zion represents God's Kingdom presence, what glorious things can I say about the city of God? Verses 4-6 In these verses, peoples of pagan and Gentile nations that were historically enemies of Israel, like Rahab (or Egypt), Babylon, Philistia, Tyre, and Cush, now know God and have their citizenship and birthright registered in His Kingdom.  What is my response when I am reminded, as Romans 5:10 says, that I was formerly an enemy of God but have now been reconciled to Him through Jesus Christ.  Verse 7 In what ways do we see demonstrated in our lives that our true blessings and joy spring from our citizensh...

  Psalm 86 is the only psalm of David in Book III.  This psalm has praise woven throughout the prayer.  Even as David describes how his life is again in danger from ruthless and godless men, he breaks out in praise declaring that God is "merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness" (v. 15).  He closes by asking God to show him a sign of His favor. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 In the phrases beginning with the word "for," the psalmist gives reasons for the LORD to answer his prayers.  What do these show us about prayers and answers to prayer? Verses 6-10 When we are facing troubles, why is it best to go to God in prayer? Verses 11-13 The psalmist asks God to unite his heart.  Is there anything that divides my affections and gets in the way of worshipping God with "my whole heart" (v. 12)? Verses 14-15 The wickedness of enemies in verse 14...

  Psalm 85 is another psalm of the Sons of Korah.  It is a prayer for revival after experiencing God's wrath due to the iniquity of His people.  Verses 1-3 reference what God has done for them in the past;  verses 4-7 are prayers for restoration in their present; and verses 8-12 demonstrate hope regarding God's response and the future. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 There is a Selah pause after declaring God's past restoration, forgiveness, and atonement.  What has God brought me out of in my past? When are times in which I have experienced God's discipline due to my sins?  What have I learned through those experiences? Verses 4-7 Pray now for revival among God's people. Verses 8-12 What is it that God might be saying to me, which I need to listen to and hear? What goodness can be experienced when we follow in God's righteous ways? If you would like to meditate on this psalm throug...

  Psalm 84 is another psalm of the Sons of Korah, who were gatekeepers as well as Levitical singers.  Since the psalmist longs to be in God's dwelling place, he considers the sparrows who build nests at the Temple and people who make pilgrimages there to be blessed.  He also prays for God's favor upon the anointed king, which ultimately points to Jesus.  He closes with praise to God for blessings to those who trust in Him. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 How much do I really   long to be in God's presence and to sing His praises? Verses 5-7 What do these verses show us about strength for our journeys? The word Baca can be translated as weeping or tears.  When are times that our valley of tears might be made into springs of joy? Verses 8-9 Pray now for leaders we know who have been appointed by God. Verses 10-12 In what ways are those who trust in the LORD blessed? If you would lik...

  Psalm 83 is the last "Psalm of Asaph."  It is a prayer for God not be silent but to take action against enemies who seek to wipe out the nation of Israel.  Specific enemies are named, and the imprecatory section calls upon God to defeat them just as He had in past examples recorded in the Book of Judges.  Yet overall, the hope is that humiliation of the enemies may cause them to seek the LORD's name and to recognize that He is "the Most High over all the earth" (v. 18). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-8 Many of those listed in these verses have been enemies of Israel throughout history even to this day, but behind them all is Satan.  Why would Satan want "the name of Israel [to] be remembered no more" (v. 4)? Verses 9-12 These verses list examples of how God defeated enemies of Israel, as recorded in the Book of Judges.  In what ways has God given us victory in our lives over t...

  In Psalm 82, God assembles those who have judged unjustly and admonishes them to give justice and protection to the weak, orphan, poor, and needy. Those who rule in moral darkness will be judged by the Most High.  The psalm closes by looking forward to when God will reign in justice.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 How does the image of the divine council remind us of accountability? Verses 2-4 What do these verses show us about how leaders should govern or judge? Verse 5 How do those who rule in darkness shake the moral order established by God on earth? Verses 6-7 Jesus references Psalm 82:6 in John 10:34-38.  How does this add to our understanding these passages?  [NOTE:  Referring to rulers as "gods" means that they are to be God's representatives when reigning on earth ] Verse 8  How does seeing all the wickedness and injustice around us make us yearn even more for Christ ...

  Psalm 81 may be considered a prophetic psalm, because of its similarities to oracles of Old Testament prophets. The beginning verses of the psalm indicate that it is likely connected to a Feast celebration.  Then God speaks to His people, reminding them of how He has delivered them from slavery in Egypt, but also of how they have tested Him through their stubborn unfaithfulness.  In the closing verses, we see God's desire for Israel to listen to Him and walk in His ways.  We are also reminded of the theme of blessings to the righteous and destruction for the wicked. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 These verses describe a call for the people to worship in singing, the Levites to play instruments to lead in music, and the priest to sound the trumpet in celebration of a festival that God has decreed.  What have I consecrated and set apart for celebration and worship of the LORD? Verses 6-...

Psalm 80 is another community lament of Asaph.  It is set "according to Lilies" like Psalms 45, 60, and 69.  Two metaphors used to describe God's People in this psalm are sheep and a vine.  The chorus in verses 3, 7, and 19 prays for God's restoration and His face to shine upon them for salvation.  Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 As the psalmist prays for Israel, he mentions specific tribes.  Think of names of specific people you would like to be praying for. Verses 3, 7, 19 ( repeated chorus with slight variations ) What does "restore," "return," or "turn us back" indicate? As with the Priestly Blessing in Numbers 6:24-26, the psalmist prays that the LORD would make His face to shine.  What would cause God not to shine His favor and blessing on us?  Verses 4-6 What are some ways in which God might discipline me for my sins? Verses 8-16 The vine is often used as a...

  Psalm 79 likely refers to the Babylonian destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple.  The psalmist prays for God to avenge against pagan enemies for the bloodshed, indignity, mocking, and derision suffered, but also to forgive their own iniquities.  The emphasis is that all will be done for the glory of God's Name to be known among the nations.  In anticipation of answered prayer and preservation from death, the psalm closes with thanksgiving and praise now and in the future. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 What are some ways in which the people of God and the Church have suffered attacks, horrible indignations, mocking, and derision? Verses 5-8 Whenever we bring our requests to God in prayer, are there also sins that we need to confess first? Verse 9 How might my perspective of what I pray for change, when primarily motivated by the glory of God's Name to be made known? Verses 10-13 Even in t...

  Psalm 78 is the second longest psalm (only Psalm 119 is longer). This latter part of Psalm 78 continues to recount examples from Israel's history when they grieved God through their rebellion and testing.  The people even worshipped idols as they forgot the power of God, which had been demonstrated through their redemption from slavery in Egypt with the plagues, the parting of the Red Sea, and victory over enemy nations in the Promised Land.  Yet, the psalm still closes with hope referencing David and the Temple in Zion, which ultimately point to Jesus as the Good Shepherd and His presence among the flock. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 40-41 Are there examples from my own life of rebellion and testing God "again and again"?  If so, take time to confess and repent. Verses 42-55 What are some of the marvelous and powerful things God has done for us? Verses 56-64 Sin, like an arrow shot from "a ...

  Psalm 78 is the second longest psalm (only Psalm 119 is longer).  The beginning part of Psalm 78 emphasizes the need to teach the next generations about the "glorious deeds of the LORD, and his might, and the wonders that he has done" (v. 4), so that they would trust in God and not forget.  Examples are recounted from Israel's history of their stubbornness and rebellion when they forgot God's law and works.  The people sinned and broke the covenant even though God had delivered the from Egypt and provided for them in the wilderness with water, manna from heaven, and even quail meat. But God continued to be compassionate and merciful despite their unfaithfulness. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-8 Psalm 78:2 is quoted in Matthew 13:35 to show that Jesus fulfilled prophecy by teaching in parables.  Why is it so important for us also to share testimony and teach God's commands, especially to...

  Psalm 77 is a lament, crying out to God in sleepless anguish.  The psalmist remembers a time when the Lord did not spurn them in anger, which indicates that they are currently experiencing the consequences of their sin and disobedience.  Yet, the psalmist also remembers who God is and all that He has done.  Thus, his hope is still in the all powerful God, who through mighty deeds has redeemed and delivered His people. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 From the example of the psalmist, what should we continually do in times of trouble when our soul groans and our spirit is faint both day and night? Verses 4-6 What can I do during sleepless nights? Verses 7-9 We know that God is faithful to His promises, His steadfast love is forever, and He is always gracious and compassionate.  Thus, how might remembering who God is be helpful when we are full of questions? Verses 10-15 How might remembe...

  Psalm 76 is another song of Asaph.  This psalm declares that the glorious God of Judah and Israel is to be feared.  He is more powerful than enemy armies; He is able to break their weapons and cut them off in stunning victory. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 The mention of both Judah and Israel shows that God is known throughout the land, and the references to Salem (the ancient name for Jerusalem) and Zion point to His presence among His people as symbolized by the Temple.  Thus, what do these verses indicate are my best defenses against the Enemy's weapons when fighting spiritual battles? Verses 4-9 How might these verses provide encouragement in battles against evil? Verses 10 Similar to Genesis 50:20a, " As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good ," why is it important to remember that God can turn wicked intentions of man to work together for good instead? Verses ...

  Psalm 75 is a song of Asaph in which the people give thanks to God because His "name is near" as they recount His "wondrous deeds."  The theme in wisdom literature is emphasized throughout the psalm with the references to God's equitable judgment and is summarized in the closing, "All the horns of the wicked I will cut off, but the horns of the righteous shall be lifted up" (v. 10). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 In what ways might recounting God's wondrous deeds in thankfulness bring God's Name to be near? Verses 2-5 When are times that God has kept the PILLARS steady even though the earth and all those around me seemed to be tottering? The HORN represents power and strength.  What do these verses teach me about power and strength? Verses 6-8 What comes to mind when I think about God's CUP of judgement? Verses 9-10 Though it may seem strange to sing praises about G...

  Psalm 74 is another psalm of Asaph and is a community lament, for the people feel rejected by God after the destruction of the Temple by the enemies.  This would likely refer to the time of the exile after the Babylonian captivity.  What the enemies have done is described in the "they" verses in 4-8, but God's power of deliverance is remembered in the "You" verses in 12-17.  So, the closing is an appeal for God to arise and defend His Name against the foolishness of the wicked revilers. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 and 9-11 The psalmist is not asking why God is angry and has cast them off, because it is known that the prophets had warned about discipline for their disobedience and unfaithfulness; instead, he is really asking "how long?" What do these verses show me about my basis for entreating God after I have sinned? Verses 4-8 These verses describe the destruction of th...

  Psalm 73 is the first psalm of Book 3.  Book 3 contains several psalms of Asaph and the Sons of Korah who were worship leaders in the temple.  In this psalm, the writer admits to almost stumbling and slipping when he becomes envious of the prosperity of the wicked.  However, he reaches a turning point when he enters the sanctuary of God and recognizes His justice (v. 17).  He gains perspective and declares that there is nothing on earth he desires besides God (v. 25) and that God is the strength of his heart and portion forever (v. 26). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 When looking at the world around us, what might almost cause us to stumble and slip? Verses 4-12 How are the wicked described in these verses?  Do we see similarities in our world today? Verses 13-15 In what ways might it be considered difficult to live a righteous life? Verses 16-17 How does entering into the presen...

  Psalm 72 is the last psalm in Book 2.  It could either have been written by or of King Solomon and is considered a Royal Psalm.  This is a prayer that kings in the line of David may rule with justice and righteousness, be a blessing to all nations, and defend the poor, needy, and oppressed.  References to "dominion from sea to sea, and ... to the ends of the earth" (v. 8) or "his name enduring forever" (v. 17) ultimately point to the reign of Christ.  This psalm and Book 2 closes with a doxology that the earth will be filled with God's glory! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-17 What are some characteristics of a reign that reflects God's righteousness and justice? Since leaders can be instruments of God's blessing, like "showers that water the earth ... where the righteous flourish" (vv. 6-7), what can I learn from this passage about godly leadership?  Verses 18-19 This ...

  In Psalm 71, the psalmist recounts God's faithfulness from his birth, through his youth, and now to old age.  He trusts God as his refuge and praises God, even when facing wicked enemies.  He has assurance that God, in his righteousness, has already delivered and rescued him from many troubles and calamities and will do so again. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 These verses are similar to Psalm 31:1-3, but one difference is when the psalmist here in Psalm 71:3 says that God is "a rock of refuge, to which I may continually come."  What does it indicate that God is my rock of refuge, to which I can CONTINUALLY come?   Verses 5-8 In what ways has God been at work in my life since my birth and through my youth? Verses 9-13 Our Enemy looks for an opportunity to attack when our "strength is spent."  What do these verses show me about turning to God when vulnerable? Verses 14-18 Bec...

  Psalm 70 essentially repeats the verses in Psalm 40:13-17.  There is this sense of urgency through the repeated pleas for God to "make haste" and "not delay."  Also seen in this psalm is the familiar contrast between the wicked versus those who seek God, as consistent with the theme in wisdom literature. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1: Though we know that God answers prayers in His perfect timing, what does David's repetition of his plea for God to "make haste" and "not delay" show us about prayer? Verses 2-3: David's enemies seek his life and delight in his hurt and misfortune as demonstrated through their mocking, "Aha, Aha!" James Montgomery Boice says “ The kindest thing we can pray for people who do wrong is that their plans will fail, for it may be that in their frustration they will see the folly and true end of evil and be reached for God .” Take...

  Psalm 69 is another lament of David. It begins with powerfully descriptive metaphors of flooding waters and deep mire for what he is going through.  While he recognizes his own foolishness, yet it is without cause that he is being hated by many enemies. Still, his primary concerns were for God's honor and to not cause shame to the community.  He turns to God in prayer, with an imprecatory section for those who dishonor God.  Even in the midst of overwhelming circumstances, he is able to close in praise and calls all heaven and earth to praise God!  Also, several verses of this psalm are referenced in the New Testament.  The verses referenced are: v. 4 in John 15:25 v. 9 in John 2:17 and Romans 15:3 v. 21 in John 19:28-29, Matthew 27:34,48, Mark 15:23,36, and Luke 23:36 v. 22-23 in Romans 11:9-10 v. 25 in Matthew 23:38 and Acts 1:20 Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 In what overwhelm...

  Psalm 68 is the last in this series of "psalm songs" from Psalm 65 to 68.  It is also considered a processional hymn.  It could refer to the procession when David brought the Ark to Jerusalem, a festival procession, or the anticipated procession of Christ the King after returning victorious from battle.  Throughout the psalm, God is praised for His awesome power, protection, and provision. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 Verse 1 references what was said whenever the Ark of the Covenant set out to lead Israel on their journey (Numbers 10:35).  Are there any paths that I am embarking on in which I need to ask God to rise up and take the lead instead? Consistent with wisdom literature, what happens to the wicked in contrast to the righteous? Verses 4-6 Verse 4 emphasizes singing "praises to His name" and says "his name is the LORD" ("YAH" or "JAH").  This shorten...

  Psalm 67 is another one of the "psalm songs."  This psalm has a missionary outlook carrying the theme that God blesses His people so that we would be a blessing to the world (ref. Gen. 12:2-3).  We look forward to when all peoples will praise God! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 Verse 1 reflects the priestly blessing in Numbers 6:24-26.  What is the effect of changing the recipient from "you" to "us" in this psalm? In what ways might these verses change my perspective when asking for God's blessings in my life? How might I bless others through God's blessings to me? Verses 3 and 5 These verses are repeated as refrains in this song.  What is the significance of adding "all" in the second part of the chorus? [NOTE:  For the Jews, "all" would have included the Gentiles] Verse 4 It is when Christ returns that this verse will be fulfilled.  This verse is th...

  Psalm 66 is another one of the psalm songs .  It begins with a universal call to all the earth to give God praise (v. 1-7), then shifts to a community call to God's people to praise Him (v. 8-12), and closes with the psalmist's individual praise and thanksgiving to God (v. 13-20).  May we all shout for joy to God and sing praises to His glorious name! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-7 These verses are a call to give God praise and worship for who He is ( i.e., "His name" ) and for what He has done ( i.e., His awesome deeds ).   What names of God point to attributes that I want to praise Him for at this time? What has God done for me that I want to praise Him for at this time? [NOTE:  "turned the sea into dry land" (v. 6) refers to parting the Red Sea when the Israelites were delivered from slavery in Egypt, which ultimately points to our deliverance from slavery to sin through the ...