Truth 101 Class

  Psalms 65-68 are psalm songs, as indicated in the title. This is a hymn of praise offered to God for His awe-inspiring answers to prayers, atonement for transgressions, divine election, creation, and abundant provisions.  We are to join with all creation shouting and singing together for joy! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 Read the following translations of the first part of Psalm 65:1: "Praise awaits you, our God" (NIV) "Praise, O God, belongs to you" (NLT) "Praise is due to you, O God" (ESV) "Praise is awaiting you, O God" (NKJV) "There will be silence before You, and praise ... God" (NASB) "To You belongs silence [the submissive wonder of reverence], and [it burst into] praise ... O God" (Amplified Bible) "Praise is rightfully yours, God" (CSB) "O God, you deserve praise" (CEV) "O God, it is right for us to praise you"

  In Psalm 64, David prays for God to preserve his life from the wicked plots of the enemy, whose tongues and words are like swords and arrows.  Yet, the wicked will be brought to ruin by their own tongues, and the righteous will rejoice in the justice of God and the protection of the innocent. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 As David feels the terror or dread of enemies who are plotting to kill him, he lifts to God his anxieties, anguish, and complaints in prayer.  What are the things that cause dread in my life, which I can lift to God in prayer? Verses 2-6 These verses describe the destructive power of the tongue, but how can I use words in a positive way instead? The wicked plot secretly, thinking they can get away with it (e.g., thinking "Who can see them?"), and they plan injustice in keeping with their sinful nature.  How might this be a helpful warning to us whenever we encounter wickedness?  Ver

  Psalm 63 records David's prayer as he is in the wilderness, fleeing from those who seek to destroy his life.  Just as David is thirsting for water in the dry and barren land surrounding him, his soul and flesh long for God. He remembers the power and glory of God and recognizes that God's steadfast love is better than life.  David praises God and sings for joy, because God satisfies, protects, and upholds.   Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verse 1 How much do I truly long for the Living Water with my whole being, as I travel through this dry and weary world? Verses 2-4 How do I respond to seeing God's power, glory, and steadfast love in my life?  Verses 5-8 What truly satisfies my soul?  [NOTE: "Fat and rich food" can be a picture of God's grace, beyond just food to satisfy hunger] Even when we are not able to sleep at night, what can we meditate on and remember of God which can bring us joy? V

  Psalm 62 declares trust in God, silently resting and waiting in Him.  In contrast, deceivers and things of this world cannot be trusted.  The psalm closes with assurance in God's power and steadfast love. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 and 5-6 These verses are like the chorus for the psalm.  What does it mean for my soul to wait in silence for God alone? [NOTE:  Consider what each word or phrase indicates:  "soul," "wait," "silence," and "God alone."] Verses 3-4 At times when we feel attacked the way David describes in these verses, why is it helpful to think of God as our rock, salvation, and fortress? Verses 7-8 In verse 7, David declares his personal confidence in God and then in verse 8, encourages the people to trust God at all times.  What have we experienced in our lives that can help encourage others to trust God also? Verses 9-10 Is there anything in this