Truth 101 Class

  Psalm 54 The background to Psalm 54 is narrated in 1 Samuel 23:19-24 with the Ziphites revealing David's hiding place during the time when David was fleeing from Saul.  David prays to God for deliverance and vindication and is assured that God will help and sustain him.  Thus, he offers sacrifices of thanksgiving to the LORD. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 How does God's name and power give me assurance in times of trouble? The Ziphites are actually from the tribe of Judah, which is the same as that of David; but, because of their actions, they are like "strangers" and "ruthless men" instead.  When are times in which we have felt betrayed by those close to us? Verse 4 During times of betrayal by others, how might God be our helper and sustainer? Verses 5-7 How should I respond when God delivers me from my troubles?  Have I done this? If you would like to meditate on this psalm thr...

  Psalm 53 is almost identical to Psalm 14 lamenting the depravity of man.  There are a few differences, such as with the addition of "ACCORDING TO MAHALATH. A MASKIL" in the Psalm 53 title; more of a reference to God as Elohim in Psalm 53 as consistent with Book II, instead of Yahweh or LORD in Psalm 14 as consistent with Book I; and an emphasis in verse 53:5 on what happens to the wicked in contrast to 14:4-6 on God's care for the poor.  However, the repetitions in the two psalms remind us that even though man has rejected God, He still provides a way for restoration and salvation through Jesus Christ. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 These verses are quoted in Romans 3:10-12.  What does the unrighteousness of man show about the righteousness of God? Knowing that when "God looks down from heaven" (v.2) and finds that "there is none who does good, not even one" (v.3), but seein...

  The terrible events behind Psalm 52 are recorded in 1 Samuel 21-22, where Doeg the Edomite brought an evil report to Saul of David's presence among the priests at Nob, resulting in their massacre.  This psalm describes the destruction and uprooting of the wicked through judgment, contrasted with the longevity and blessing of the righteous who is like an olive tree.  The psalm closes with praise to God and hope in him forever. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 The evils words of Doeg resulted in the massacre of innocent priests.  What do these verses warn me about the "tongue" of the wicked? Verse 5-7 What is God's judgment for the wicked who trust in their riches? What is our response when we see God's justice?  (NOTE:  In light of Scripture passages like Proverbs 24:17, "Do not rejoice when your enemy falls, and let not your heart be glad when he stumbles," the laughter in verse...

  Psalm 51 may be the most familiar of the Penitential Psalms (6, 32, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143).  David wrote this when confronted by the prophet Nathan for his adultery with Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:1-12:25).  He confesses and repents of his sins, appealing to God's mercy, lovingkindness, and compassion for cleansing and restoration.  Then, in gratitude for anticipated forgiveness, he plans to teach other sinners and to declare God's praises.  In his closing, he appeals for God's favor on Jerusalem. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-12 Throughout these verses, David uses three words for sin:  transgression (crossing a boundary), iniquity (twisted or perverted), and sin (missing the mark).  What do these words show me about sin? David takes responsibility for his sin, sees his brokenness, and recognizes his sinful nature since birth.  What sins in my life do I need to confess?...

  Psalm 50 is the first of the psalms of Asaph.  Asaph and his sons were worship leaders at the time of David (1 Chronicles 25:1).  The beginning of the psalm sets the stage for God's judgment of His people.  They have offered sacrifices that are not acceptable.  There are even some among the people of God who have lived in wicked disobedience.  In the closing, what God really desires are sacrifices of thanksgiving and righteous living. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-6 There are seven different names of God used throughout the Psalm, three of them in verse 1 (Mighty One, God, LORD).  The others are Judge (v. 6),  Most High (v. 14), I AM (v. 21), and Eloah which is a rare reference to God (v. 22).  When God is about to judge His people, what is the significance of referencing so many different names of God? When Israel was about to enter the Promised Land, they renewed ...

  Psalm 49 provides wisdom regarding material wealth in light of the eternal perspective.  This psalm is addressed to "all peoples ... both low and high, rich and poor."  No one escapes death, not even the rich who will be unable to take their wealth with them.  While no man is able to pay the priceless ransom for life, the psalmist is confident that God will redeem his soul. We now know that this has been fulfilled through Christ our Redeemer! Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4: Why is a psalm teaching about material wealth applicable to ALL peoples, including me? Verses 5-20: What fears do I have related to earthly riches? What can I learn from the wisdom provided in these verses on the biblical perspective of material wealth in light of eternity? The psalmist was confident that God would ransom his soul from the power of the grave and will receive him eternally.  Now that we have an even...

  Psalm 48 praises God in Zion, "the city of the great King."  The citizens of Jerusalem have seen and heard of God's protection against the enemies.  Even the neighboring towns praise Him for His judgments and righteous right hand.  Though Zion has towers, ramparts, and citadels, it is really God who protects and guides His people forever. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-3 These verses praise God for His protective presence of His people.  In what ways has God protected me? Verses 4-8 The citizens are assured that God will keep their city safe forever because they have seen and heard of God's protection against enemies [NOTE:  Ships of Tarshish were known to be strong ships that could sail long distances ].  How does God's past faithfulness give me assurance for the present and my future? Verses 9-14 It is through God's people that His praises will reach the "ends of the earth...