Truth 101 Class

  Psalm 137 is one of the Imprecatory Psalms (7, 35, 55, 58, 59, 69, 79, 109, 137, 139). It begins as a lament mourning the time of captivity in Babylon (vv.1-3) but continues into vows to not forget the joys of Zion (vv.4-5).  It then closes with imprecatory prayers for God's judgment and vengeance against the Edomites and Babylonians (vv.7-9). Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 As the people of God, what are some losses we mourn and ridicules we face in this world? Verses 4-6 How can I find joy in the midst of trials? Verses 7-9 The Edomites were descendants of Esau and thus relatives of the children of Jacob or Israel.  Yet, they supported the Babylonians instead in the destruction of Jerusalem.  What do these verses teach us about how to pray when faced with betrayal and wickedness? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 137&qu

  Psalm 136 is also a "Great Hallel" song of antiphonal praise, giving thanks to God because "his steadfast love endures forever!"  It includes similar themes as Psalm 135 praising God for His wondrous works of creation, deliverance, and provision. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-9 In what ways has the "God of gods" and "Lord of lords" been GOOD? How has God displayed His wondrous works to me? Verses 10-22 In what ways has God delivered me and fulfilled His promises? Verse 16 praises God for His leading through the wilderness.  What wilderness experiences has God led me through? Verses 23-26 In what ways has God remembered me, freed me, and provided for me? The word hesed is multifaceted and can be translated mercy, steadfast love, lovingkindness, or covenant love.  What encouragement does it give us to know that God's hesed "endures forever"? If you would

  Many verses in Psalm 135 are similar to other passages of Scripture, such as Psalm 135:15-20 and Psalm 115:4-11. Woven together, Psalm 135 is a "Great Hallel" song, praising the LORD for who He is and what He has done! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 What do we learn about PRAISE from these verses? Verses 5-7 In what ways is the LORD great and thus worthy of praise? Verses 8-14 What are some of the things the LORD has done in my life that are worthy of praise? Verses 15-21 What worthless idols might sometimes pull us away from praising the LORD who is worthy? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Come and Praise" (Psalm 135) by Cardiphonia Music:  Link

  Psalm 134 is the last in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). Psalm 134 is a psalm of blessing opening with a call to bless the LORD and closing with a priestly blessing. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 These verses are a call to worship.  Take time now to bless the LORD and offer to Him the praise He deserves. Verse 3 Because of the blessings we have received from the Maker of heaven and earth, how can we be a blessing to others?  If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following are links to YouTube videos: "Psalm 134" by ScriptureSongs: Link "Behold Bless Ye the Lord" by Maranatha!:  Link