Truth 101 Class

  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...