Psalms, Lamentations, and Song of Songs

WHY SHOULD WE READ AND DISCUSS THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE THAT ARE COLLECTIONS OF SONG LYRICS?

We all know how to say the polite, respectable things about God. But how do we put into words our questions and doubts about God, our frustrations and disappointments with him? Is it proper to give a voice to our darkest spiritual experiences of suffering, depression, and despair? And if, on other occasions, we feel as if we’re experiencing a little bit of heaven right here on earth, how can we describe the glories we’re tasting? Where do we find the words, when words aren’t enough to begin with? Throughout the ages people have turned to song to express what the spoken word can barely convey. This has always been true of God’s people in particular. The songwriters of ancient Israel have left us a rich legacy. They created powerful expressions of the heights and depths of their experiences with God. Over the centuries people used those songs again and again to put their own experiences into words. Eventually many of these songs were gathered into the biblical books of Psalms, Lamentations, and Song of Songs. While their tunes have now been lost, their lyric poetry still speaks eloquently and evocatively today. In these compositions we encounter an incredibly broad and deep range of spiritual experiences, from people in the depths of despair barely hanging on to their faith to others basking in the glories of heaven on earth. We hear thoughts and feelings expressed that we may have had ourselves, but weren’t sure we could or should put into words. If you want to broaden your own spiritual experiences, if you want to know how to speak about them more meaningfully, and if you want to find inspiration in the struggles and triumphs of people of faith who’ve gone before you, get together with some friends and use this guide to read and discuss the biblical books that are collections of song lyrics: Psalms, Lamentations, and Song of Songs.

UNDERSTANDING THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE PSALMS LAMENTATIONS SONG OF SONGS Also available in the UNDERSTANDING THE BOOKS OF THE BIBLE Understanding the Books of the Bible series:

John PSALMS Genesis Wisdom: Proverbs/Ecclesiastes/James LAMENTATIONS Biblical Apocalypses: Daniel/Revelation Paul’s Journey Letters: Thessalonians/Corinthians/ Galatians/Romans SONG OF SONGS Luke–Acts Job—November 2011 Paul’s Prison Letters: Colossians/Ephesians/Philemon/ Christopher R. Smith Philippians/Timothy/Titus—November 2011

Future releases: Exodus/Leviticus/Numbers New Covenants: Deuteronomy/Hebrews Samuel–Kings

Isaiah Amos/Hosea/Micah/Zephaniah/Nahum/Habakkuk Jeremiah Ezekiel Obadiah/Haggai/Zechariah/Jonah/Joel/Malachi

Chronicles/Ezra/Nehemiah/Esther

Matthew Mark

Peter/Jude/John CONTENTS

How These Study Guides Are Different 1 Biblica provides God’s Word to people through translation, publishing and Bible engagement in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, Middle East, and North America. Through its SESSION 1 worldwide reach, Biblica engages people with God’s Word so that their lives are transformed Psalms Are the Words to Songs 9 through a relationship with Jesus Christ. SESSION 2 Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 17 SESSION 3 Biblica Publishing Psalms of Thanksgiving: The Basic Form 25 We welcome your questions and comments. SESSION 4 Psalms of Praise: The Basic Form 31 1820 Jet Stream Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80921 USA SESSION 5 www.Biblica.com Psalms That Combine the Basic Forms 37 SESSION 6 Psalms That Expand One Element Within a Form 41 Understanding the Books of the Bible: Psalms/Lamentations/Song of Songs ISBN-13: 978-1-60657-061-6 SESSION 7 Psalms of Supplication with an Expanded Statement of Trust Copyright © 2011 by Christopher R. Smith (Psalms of Trust) 45 13 12 11 / 6 5 4 3 2 1 SESSION 8 Psalms of Supplication for Healing of Sickness 49 Published in 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ SESSION 9 All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without permission in writing from the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in articles or reviews. Psalms of Supplication for Deliverance from Enemies 55 SESSION 10 Scripture quotations are taken from the HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION® NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™. Used by permission of Biblica, Inc.™ Psalms of Supplication That Call for the Destruction of the Wicked All rights reserved worldwide. (Imprecatory Psalms) 59 SESSION 11

A catalog record for this book is available through the Library of Congress. Psalms of Supplication for the Forgiveness of Sin (Penitential Psalms) 65 SESSION 12 Printed in the United States of America Psalms of Praise That Celebrate God’s Reign (Divine Enthronement Psalms) Songs of Zion 71 SESSION 13 Psalms of Praise that Celebrate God’s Care for Creation 75 SESSION 14 Psalms of Praise that Celebrate God’s Compassion 79 SESSION 15 Psalms of Praise That Celebrate God’s Justice 83 SESSION 16 Wisdom Psalms 87 SESSION 17 Psalms of the Law 93 SESSION 18 Salvation History Psalms 97 SESSION 19 The Book of Lamentations 101 SESSION 20 HOW THESE STUDY GUIDES ARE DIFFERENT Psalms for Special Occasions: Coronation 105 SESSION 21 Psalms for Special Occasions: Marriage 111 The Song of Songs SESSION 22 Psalms for Special Occasions: Pilgrimage Songs of Ascents 117 Did you know you could read and study the Bible without using any SESSION 23 chapters or verses? The chapter divisions used in most modern Bibles were Psalms for Special Occasions: Covenant Renewal 123 SESSION 24 added more than a thousand years after the biblical books were written. The Experiencing the Book of Psalms as a Whole 127 verse numbers were added more than three centuries after that. If you grew up with the chapter-and-verse system, it may feel like part of the inspired Word of God. But it’s not. Those little numbers aren’t holy, and when you read and study the Bible without them, you’ll hear its message more clearly than ever before. The books of the Bible are real “books.” They’re meant to be experienced the same way other books are: as exciting, interesting works that keep you turning pages right to the end and then make you want to go back and savor each part. The Understanding the Books of the Bible series of study guides will help you do that with the Bible. While you can use these guides with any version or translation, they’re especially designed to be used with The Books of the Bible, an edition of the Scriptures from Biblica that takes out the chapter and verse numbers and presents the biblical books in their natural form. Here’s what people are saying about reading the Bible this way:

I love it. I find myself understanding Scripture in a new way, with a fresh lens, and I feel spiritually refreshed as a result. I learn much

3 series doesn’t do that. Instead, these study guides focus focus study guides these Instead, do that. doesn’t series Lamentations and the Song of Songs are slightly different. While they’re While they’re slightly different. are of Songs Lamentations and the Song many options for discussion. are each session of this study guide there In In the case of the book of Psalms, before you try to read through the try through you read to before Psalms, of the book of the case In YOU’LL DECIDE FOR YOURSELVES WHAT TO DISCUSS TO WHAT DECIDE FOR YOURSELVES YOU’LL While a group could complete most sessions in about an hour and a half, could complete most sessions in about an hour and a half, While a group no There’s conversation. any one of the questions could lead to an involved leaders Group it all.” through shortneed to cut the conversation to try to “get all the questions ahead of time and decide which one(s) to through can read do get into an involved you to take them up in. If begin with, and what order can out some of the others, or you can leave discussion of one question, you since they’re all independent compositions. You may have used reading plans used reading may have You compositions. all independent since they’re and in a year the Bible through you designed to take in the past that were When read each day. right in a row 8 or 10 psalms to read so assigned you and over thing over the same seemed to say probably like this, these psalms the great want to appreciate really you If much in the same way. again, pretty in the psalms and expressed and depth of spiritual experience that’s breadth plow just can’t you take, they forms different many the of variety creative the to consider the psalms one at a you the book. This guide will lead through hear the unique and authentic voice time, a few can in each session, so you you then experience the book as a in the final session will of each one. Only whole. been now have these compositions, independent originally of up made also So in start smoothly from to finish. together into books that flow worked these shorter through books together in your read sessions 19 and 21 you’ll and discuss them as a whole. group Books of the Bible of the Books you So one book at a time. and meaning of the message on understanding and or Lamentations of Songs, Song the Psalms, from a few verses read won’t understand come to you’ll Instead, in the Bible. to another place then jump how clearly more recognize can then so you books as a whole, each of these to other parts of the Bible. what they say relates important the individual psalms first, to understand each of book, it’s entire - nderstanding the nderstanding or to obtain a copy or to obtain a copy visit http://www.Biblica.com/TheBooks. visit http://www.Biblica.com/TheBooks. , The Books of the Bible The Books of the YOU’LL UNDERSTAND WHOLE BOOKS UNDERSTAND YOU’LL Who would ever try to watch a movie this way? Yet many study guides Yet try this way? Who would ever to watch a movie Imagine going to a friend’s house to watch a movie you’ve never seen never you’ve movie watch a to house friend’s to a going Imagine Here are some of the ways you and your group will have a better experi a will have group and your some of the ways you are Here For people who are used to chapters and verses, reading and studying the and reading used to chapters and verses, people who are For I’ve been a reader of the Bible all of my life. But after reading just a just reading after But life. my of all Bible the of reader a been I’ve been I’d at what I was amazed few chapters and verses, pages without missing all these years. about information more For truth of the storyfor me. come alive miss the chapter I don’t beautifully. this way flows Scripture Reading the way. gone. They got in I like them numbers. and verse more through stories being told, and with this new with this told, and being stories I feel the format, through more take this approach to the Bible. They have you read a few paragraphs from few a read from paragraphs you They have Bible. the to approach this take one book, then jump to a passage in another book. The U a different movie and before you know it, you’re watching a scene from the watching a scene from you’re it, you know and before movie a different middle of another film. tell me what you think of it so far.” When you give your best shot at a reply, at a reply, best shot your give When you think of it so far.” tell me what you a scene there’s know, says, “You friend seen, your based on the little you’ve switches to He always makes me think of this one.” that in another movie before. After only a couple of scenes, your friend stops the film and says, “So, friend stops the film and says, “So, After only a couple of scenes, your before. ence of the Scriptures by using these study guides. by ence of the Scriptures some old ways of doing things and learn some new ways. But it’s not too long it’s some newsome old ways of doing things and learn ways. But you can do a find the new and you works system catch on to how until you do before. couldn’t lot of things you Bible without them may take a little getting used to. It’s like when you get a like when you It’s used to. without them may take a little getting Bible to unlearn have You a laptop to a tablet. using from new smart phone or move Watch this site for a four-volume set comprising the entire Bible in this this in Bible entire the comprising set four-volume a for site this Watch format, coming soon. of this specially designed edition of this specially designed

5 - - - .) After these observations, bold Group members agree to keep anything that’s shared shared to keep anything that’s members agree Group Group members will treat other members with respect at all other members with respect members will treat Group You or a group member can read this background information, and then this background member can read or a group You Respect. Respect. ideas. over when disagreeing times, even basic parts: Each session has three to the session out loud for everyone. the introduction someone read Have observationssome with introduced how explain be will that psalms Most To create a climate of trust where this kind of deep sharing is encour of deep sharing this kind of trust a climate where create To Confidentiality. in the group.” stays said in the group strictly confidential. “What’s HOW TO LEAD GROUP STUDIES USING THIS GUIDE STUDIES USING THIS LEAD GROUP HOW TO there are suggested discussion questions. Many of them have multiple parts of them have suggested discussion questions. Many are there ways of getting at an issue. just different really that are neces not the biblical songs for each session out loud. (It’s someone can read sary the traditional headings with the psalms.) The study guide will to read take reading, each After reading. this do to ways various for suggestions offer in. is most interested discussion questions the group up whichever Introduction questions about the introduction members the chance to ask group Then give a discussion (Occasionally, own thoughts and examples. and to offer their or after the introduction.) question will be suggested just before and Discussion Reading to the history background some and culture together and provide put they’re in them. reflected (When particular terms are of the ancient world as it’s that describe the basic types of psalms and the elements com introduced in monly found in them, these terms appear like a test. Instead, they’ll connect the Bible to your life in practical, personal, personal, in practical, life to your the Bible connect they’ll test. Instead, like a ways. relational to at its agree should rules group ground a couple of that your are aged, here first meeting: - - -

invite you to share deeply about your ideas deeply about your to share invite you

YOU’LL ALL SHARE DEEPLY YOU’LL EVERYBODY WILL PARTICIPATE EVERYBODY OF THE BIBLICAL SONGWRITERS OF THE BIBLICAL TOGETHER, YOU’LL RELIVE THE EXPERIENCES RELIVE THE EXPERIENCES YOU’LL TOGETHER, The discussion questions will There’s plenty of opportunityreading the for everyone to participate,by There’s Each session gives suggestions for how the songs it considers can be read read be can considers it songs the how for suggestions gives session Each Note: The first four sessions in this guide are longer because they provide provide longer because they are in this guide first four sessions The Note: of psalms. basic types important three material about the background these to cover you may wish length and significance, of their Because than four meetings. the course of more sessions over aren’t the kinds of abstract, academic questions that make the discussion feel the kinds of abstract, academic questions that make the aren’t them up.” They require reflection on the meaning of each song, in the wider require They them up.” personal experience. These context of the book it belongs to, in light of your and experiences. The answers to these questions can’t be found just by “looking by just found be can’t questions these to answers The experiences. and aren’t looking for “right answers.” Instead, they invite people to reflect on they invite people to reflect Instead, answers.” looking for “right aren’t if every even of them together, deeper issues and pursue an understanding end. in the agree body doesn’t group. Leaders can involve quiet people naturally by giving them these op quiet people naturally by Leaders can involve group. portunities.because the questions And everyone feel they can respond, will Scriptures, or by introducing the study or the discussion questions to the the study or the discussion questions introducing or by Scriptures, in the long stream of people, going all the way back to ancient Israel, who’ve who’ve ancient Israel, of people, going all the way back to in the long stream spiritual experiences. their own used these timeless songs to express lar compositions, and to sing or listen to songs that are based on the psalms based on the psalms to sing or listen to songs that are lar compositions, and the be able to relive this way you’ll similar messages. In or that have read, you join You’ll their works. in expressed have the biblical songwriters experiences effectively out loud. Many sessions will also invite you to write your own simi your you to write will also invite Many sessions out loud. effectively extend the study over more than one meeting if you do want to cover all of all to cover do want if you meeting than one more over the study extend them.

7 - - community Bible Bible community . You can write out your can write out your You . , you may want to have a have want to may , you words in Scripture quotations in this in Scripture words individual study Sunday school class Sunday italicized . If you’re using it in this way: using it in this you’re . If During the following week the community will then read, the community will then read, week the following During for the next session, and to the Scriptures discuss, and respond them. center around the worship gathering will once more of reading a community The experience will culminate with ideally in the context of a one-day the whole book of Psalms, (This is explained in session 24.) retreat. Encourage people to read the Scriptures for each session on for each session the Scriptures people to read Encourage early in the week. their own small groups. in midweek each session together Do to each small-group some response people to write/create Invite addition to the In in worship. be shared session that could to cre illustrations this guide invites people poems, songs, and journal or blog entries, might also include ate, these responses so on. dramas, videos, and the op people worship gatherings, give weekend During on one preaching and have their responses, portunity to share the community has experienced that of the Scriptures or more from heard gather up comments they’ve can Speakers week. well. as reflections people and draw on their own Note: Anytime you see you Anytime Note: • • • • This guide can also be used for If you’re using this guide in a in a this guide using you’re If with a used in connection guide can also be This study • • book, the italics have been added for emphasis. book, the italics have responses to the questions in a notebook or journal. (However, we really really we (However, to the questions in a notebook or journal. responses in community!) and studying the Bible encourage reading time of singing and prayer before or after the study. before and prayer time of singing experience -

, you may want to begin each , you home group AND INDIVIDUAL USE AND INDIVIDUAL CLASSES, COMMUNITY BIBLE EXPERIENCES, COMMUNITY BIBLE EXPERIENCES, CLASSES, TIPS FOR HOME GROUPS, SUNDAY SCHOOL SCHOOL SUNDAY TIPS FOR HOME GROUPS, If you’re using this guide in a you’re If and arranging for someone to play them on a piano or guitar. for and arranging will end of most sessions, other psalms of the type just considered the At Note: Many of the sessions will suggest songs you can sing or listen to songs you of the sessions will suggest Many Note: want to use these suggestions, look you the psalms. If based on that are finding videos of them on by for the songs ahead of time, for example, your to them of version recorded a bring to someone getting Internet, the sing for people to and music printed out having the words meeting, or As you answer the questions, interact with the observations the questions, can answer (you As you You don’t have to discuss the questions in the order they appear in the appear they the order in the questions to discuss have don’t You want to have a time of singing and prayer before or after the study. This would or after the study. before a time of singing and prayer want to have be a natural place to use the song suggestions. meeting (or at least some meetings) by having dinner together. You may also You having dinner together. meeting (or at least some meetings) by be listed and described. Your group can discuss some of these if it wants to of these if it wants some can discuss group Your described. be listed and own. on them on their and reflect can also read and has time. Individuals For Further Reading and Discussion Reading Further For agree or disagree with them) in light of your reading from the Bible. Use only Use the Bible. from reading with them) in light of your or disagree agree part the parts, one angle, or use all of at the issue from of the question to get choose. as you and decide which ones you want to emphasize. want to emphasize. you and decide which ones questions and not do the others. Or you can have shorter can have of each discussions you Or and not do the others. questions meet the before leader, group the As all. them cover do you that so question and the observations the questions them, read should introduce that ing you study guide. You can choose to spend your time exploring just one or two or one just exploring time your spend to choose can You guide. study

6 SESSION 1

PSALMS ARE THE WORDS TO SONGS

 Question for opening discussion: Have you ever liked a song so much that you copied or printed out the words and put them up in your room, posted them on Facebook as a favorite quotation, or did something similar? If so, tell the group what song this was and why you liked it so much.

INTRODUCTION The psalms are songs that the people of ancient Israel liked so much and sang so often together that their words were written down and collected into a book that became part of the Bible. But we may not realize at first that the psalms are song lyrics, for several reasons. For one thing, if we’ve gone to church or read the Bible, we’ve probably always heard somebody read the psalms out loud, or we’ve read them silently ourselves. We’re not used to singing them or hearing them sung (unless we go to a particular type of church that customarily does this). For another thing, most of the psalms don’t look like the songs we’re familiar with today. They don’t have the same overall form, and they’re written in a different kind of poetry. (But some of the psalms do look pretty much like the songs we know, and we’ll be looking at a few of them in this

Psalms are the Words to Songs 11 READING AND DISCUSSION READING AND If you wish, listen to a recording or watch a video of the gospel a video of the gospel or watch listen to a recording If you wish, God is our refuge and strength, and is our refuge God in trouble. help an ever-present that I am God; still, and know says, “Be He I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46 has two 3-line stanzas, a 1-line chorus, another 3-line stanza, Psalm repetition of the himself speaks), and a final a bridge (in which God In most Bibles, the parts of this psalm (stanzas, chorus, Bibles, most bridge) will be In

 My singing “Take Mahalia Jackson civil rights leader singer and as a group. or sing the song together Lord,” Hand, Precious set off from one another by some white space. Have someone read Psalm 46 read someone Have by some white space. one another set off from Psalms can be found near the of (The book of the group. out loud for the rest part each to between briefly pause should reader The Bibles.) most of middle the form of this song. emphasize Note: The psalm numbers are traditional and are used for convenience in this used for convenience and are traditional The psalm numbers are Note: is not important of the psalms study guide. The customary for the way they order their compositions with psalmists wrote of the None here. will be approached a particular the expectation that they would have location within an eventual books is explained division into five and their of the psalms The order collection. in session 24. 1 poetry two parts1-line chorus. usually have and sometimes Lines of Hebrew parts, below) so these individual poetic lines (such as those three they have translations: lines in English may look like two or three triumphant believers. This illustration shows how we can best understand and understand can best we how shows illustration This believers. triumphant Bible. the psalms in the appreciate - - - - Suppose we didn’t know that the song “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” Lord” Precious Hand, My “Take song the that know didn’t we Suppose But the headings to the individual psalms actually reflect only a tradi individual psalms actually reflect the headings to the But Beyond this, many of the psalms have headings that offer a description headings that offer have of the psalms this, many Beyond would recognize “Take My Hand, Precious Lord” as a song that was the cre Lord” Precious Hand, My “Take would recognize life, which impassioned outpouring of deep faith in some individual’s ative, then became part of the spiritual heritage of a community of struggling and did still know that Martin Luther King Jr. often had it sung at rallies, to King Jr. Luther that Martin did still know that case, we In of the civil rights movement. himself and the rest inspire was written by Thomas A. Dorsey in 1932 as a prayer for strength and endur strength for as a prayer in 1932 Dorsey A. Thomas written by was had only we died in childbirth.ance after his wife and their baby Suppose suppose we But an uncertain and why. this song tradition about who wrote and lows of their ongoing relationships with God. with God. of their ongoing relationships and lows the psalms based on what we can say confidently about them: that they were were they about them: that confidently can say we the psalms based on what to help individuals and the community used in the worship of ancient Israel in the highs arose the thoughts, feelings, questions, and beliefs that express psalms as historical documents that reveal what a given person was saying person what a given reveal psalms as historical documents that should appreciate we and thinking at a particular point in their life. Instead, these songs were used in worship (what their tunes were, for example). But for example). But in worship (what their tunes were, used these songs were be confident that in every a they tell us accurately who wrote case can’t we the treat them lead us to let shouldn’t And so we why. and when, and psalm, also accurate in suggesting that many of the psalms were written by leading written by of the psalms were also accurate in suggesting that many how reliably Israel. The psalm headings do tell us in the community of figures Bible is the Word of God usually don’t consider these headings to be inspired to be inspired consider these headings usually don’t of God Word is the Bible origi coming as psalms the depicting in accurate is tradition This Scripture.) of people who trusted It’s in the lives situations in God. real-life nally from tional understanding of when they were written. (People who believe that the that who believe written. (People of when they were tional understanding 52 talks about how King David’s enemy Doeg betrayed him, and this psalm this and him, betrayed Doeg enemy David’s King how about talks 52 Doeg: confronted publicly he when said David what of record a like sounds “Why mighty hero?” boast of evil, you you do to understand the psalms in light of them, the psalms will seem more like will seem more psalms in light of them, the psalms to understand the Psalm to heading the example, For songs. than prayers spoken or speeches biblical psalms take.) biblical psalms try headings first and these read we If written. why they were of when and session to show that the psalms really are song lyrics. In the sessions that sessions the In lyrics. song are really the psalms that to show session forms that the many other and appreciate come to understand we’ll follow,

Psalms are the Words to Songs 10

Psalms are the Words to Songs 13 - by Chris these parts are put back together. (If (If put back together. these parts are How Great Is Our God How Great Is Our The Books of the Bible The Books of the Despite what was happening, the songwriter was very aware of Despite what was happening, What examples can you give of contemporary songs that have you give of contemporary songs What examples can but we do know 46, or why, know who wrote Psalm don’t We Psalms 42 and 43 are actually a single psalm that was later divided into actually a single 42 and 43 are Psalms two parts. In reassurance in your own life right now, reread Psalm 46 several reread Psalm reassurance in your own life right now, to speak to you through it. times in the week ahead and ask God Tomlin is one example. What others can you think of, whether of, example. What others can you think is one Tomlin they’re songs you might hear on the worship songs, popular love kind of song?) radio, or some other  if their world was falling apart. that when they wrote it, they felt as a great storm at The psalm uses the images of an earthquake, sea, and a war to describe the writer’s situation. As a group, name life to make in a person’s some of the things that can happen you felt as if your world was falling When have them feel this way. apart?  voice afraid. The writer heard God’s God’s presence and wasn’t still.” The psalm expresses a confidence that God will “Be saying, and make his power and glory bring about a peaceful resolution and hear God’s voice of known. How can a person listen for experienced situations? If you’ve peace and reassurance in difficult and share with the group. If you need peace this yourself, As you read and discuss the psalms in the sessions ahead, if you look for look if you ahead, in the sessions psalms discuss the and read As you  and a bridge? ( verses, a chorus, 2 a note explaining that they were using another edition, it may have you’re this kind of repetition of meaning and think of it as something like rhym of it as something and think of meaning of repetition this kind (The songs they trulythe psalms as the engage will help you ing, this are. with actual always correspond don’t Bible divisions in the verse traditional meaning to of repeated should use this pattern you so poetry, lines of Hebrew numbers.) verse on and not rely identify poetic lines , - miktam , a maskil . They also tell what . They also where it appears in the where . Think back to the song the to back Think . Alamoth selah sound . The second part of a line will re-state partThe second . will line a of (“song”), as opposed to a as opposed (“song”), meaning shir appears after the first stanza and after each chorus. appears after the This selah , as other psalms are described in their headings. (We don’t know know don’t (We in their headings. described psalms are , as other mizmor the holy place where the Most High dwells. High the Most the holy place where mentioned God” “city of (The second part expands on the meaning of the in the first part) he burns the shields with fire. God the idea in the first partrestates of (The second part of this line of war) weapons destroying God, make glad the city of whose streams is a river There He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; and shatters the the bow breaks He Rhyming is based on the repetition of repetition the on based is Rhyming But the most obvious way to recognize Psalm 46 as a song is from its its 46 as a song is from Psalm to recognize way the most obvious But There are many ways for us to recognize that Psalm 46 is a song. Its head Its 46 is a song. Psalm that recognize for us to ways many are There instead on the repetition of repetition the on instead what the first part says, draw a contrast to it, or extend it in some way: ago, and recognize the places where one line ends with the same sound as the one places where the ago, and recognize poetry is based Hebrew and “stand.”) example, “hand” it. (For line before it, this will make them feel even more like songs. more it, this will make them feel even listened to it a few sang or if you minutes Lord,” Precious Hand, My “Take often do, and this might make them seem a little less familiar, but they do but they seem a little less familiar, often do, and this might make them very learn to recognize we similar to rhyming, and once that’s a feature have to us from songs we know today. This enables us to recognize that this is a recognize This enables us to today. know songs we to us from its form or a set of a letter by can recognize musical composition, just as we today songs way the rhyme don’t psalms biblical The form. its by directions form. The pattern of stanza, stanza, chorus,form. The pattern stanza, bridge, chorus is familiar probably indicates that an instrumental indicates that these at probably interlude was to be played the word print modern Bibles points. (Some NIV does not.) psalms, although the exactly what these ancient styles were.) Also, in the original Hebrew, the Also, in the original Hebrew, ancient styles were.) exactly what these musical term instructions be sung to, tune it should tell what it is: a kind of composition or a ing includes a brief series of instructions for the “director of music.” These of music.” instructions a brief series of ing includes for the “director

Psalms are the Words to Songs 12

Psalms are the Words to Songs 15 - includes verses from John Newton’s hymn “Amazing Grace.”) hymn “Amazing Newton’s John from includes verses the people of Israel were conquered and carried off into exile. exile. off into and carried conquered were Israel of the people the does image extended What restoration. their for prayer a It’s this and its misfortunes? to describe the nation psalm use Use of a restoration for the spiritual a similar one to pray image or important to you. nation that’s 57 and notice its form: stanza, chorus, stanza, Psalm Read What images is the songwriter facing? What difficulty chorus. How is the to describe this difficulty? does the psalm use the emphasis of from stanza different emphasis of the second was able to experience you think the psalmist do How the first? this change in perspective? used that people in ancient Israel have clear indication we One spiritual experi current their to express earlier compositions the last 108 has been put together from ences is the way Psalm 60. Look of Psalm 57 and the last two-thirds of Psalm third What current this is done. psalms, and see how at these three that incorporate parts of older know compositions do you which Agnew, Todd by Like Rain” example, “Grace songs? (For • • - FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER Read Psalm 80 and notice how its form is stanza, chorus, its 80 and notice how Psalm Read stanza, chorus,What slight change is stanza, bridge, chorus. repeated? time it’s made in the chorus the second and third This psalm was written after What effect does this change have? The writer repeatedly tells his soul, which is “downcast” and which is “downcast” The writer repeatedly tells his soul, The psalmist asks God, “Why Why have you forgotten me? If you’ve read Psalms 42 and 43 before, tell the group what 42 and 43 before, tell the group read Psalms If you’ve is in a very difficult 46, this songwriter Psalm Like the author of • hope in God.  and confidence in God. Have you ever to have hope “disturbed,” troubling circumstances through been able to find renewed faith in right now, facing a difficult situation this kind of self-talk? If you’re ahead, telling it why it should speak to your own soul in the days  it’shave you rejected me?” Do you think all right with God if we “vent” our feelings to him this way? situation. The psalm describes this situation as like being tossed describes this situation as like situation. The psalm gone white-water ever rafting and If you’ve around in huge rapids. been tumbled by a big if you’ve things nearly got out of control, or this was like. How else does wave in the ocean, tell the group what the psalm describe the writer’s situation?  read aloud to hear the original whole psalm difference it makes on its song form. with an emphasis  Have someone read Psalms 42 and 43 together out loud. The reader reader loud. The 43 together out 42 and Psalms read someone Have should pause briefly after each stanza and each repetition of the chorusrepetition of to each stanza and each briefly after should pause form of this psalm. the emphasize originally one psalm.) This psalm has three stanzas, and the same chorus and the stanzas, ap has three psalm psalm.) This one originally . . .” downcast? you my soul, are each one: “Why, pears after

Psalms are the Words to Songs 14 SESSION 2

PSALMS OF SUPPLICATION: THE BASIC FORM

INTRODUCTION To illustrate that the psalms were originally songs, in the previous session we considered some psalms that have stanzas and choruses like the songs we know today. But most psalms don’t follow this same pattern. Instead, they use some other basic forms that were common in ancient Hebrew songwriting. These forms allow the biblical songwriters to structure a creative expression of the powerful emotions and intense spiritual sensations that arise from their deep experiences with God. Without some kind of structure to channel all of this energy, these writers would produce something more like an explosion than a coherent expression of their experiences. It would be hard for us today to share meaningfully in a primal scream that was echoing down through the centuries. So it’s valuable for the psalmists to have these forms available, and it’s valuable for us to understand them. In other words, learning to recognize and appreciate these forms is important because this helps us understand the purpose of each psalm and appreciate the way it captures the writer’s spiritual experiences. This study guide will explain these forms and help you explore the variety of situations they speak to. The most common type of psalm is a cry for God’s help in a time of trouble. About one third of the psalms fit this type. These are often called 17

Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 19 - - - state cry for , a promise that , a promise of God’s past mercies to past mercies of God’s vow of praise vow recollection or request God to act on the writer’s behalf. behalf. on the writer’s to act God or request petition . , a description of the troubles the writer is facing, usually the writer is facing, of the troubles , a description and express confidence in God’s goodness and power despite goodness and power God’s confidence in and express accusation complaint . The psalmist calls out to God, begging for rescue in urgent and emo in urgent and rescue begging for God, calls out to . The psalmist The breakthrough point comes when the psalmist is able to make a point The breakthrough The psalm will then of supplication typically end with a Psalms A deliverance. The sacrificed animal will be serveddeliverance. at a to family and friends the to came God how publicly recount will writer the where meal celebration even should help them, psalmists may (When why God rescue. giving reasons able to offer this public acknowl be point out that if they perish, they won’t certain praise in advance. psalms the writer offers some edgment.) In complaint is about how others are causing trouble. But a complaint may also But trouble. causing are others how complaint is about what the community writer is experiencing personally or describe what the may even It instead of “they.” so it will say “I” or “we” and is going through, coming to the isn’t complain that God and saying “you,” to God, talk directly complaint is “you” in the first place. A the trouble or that he caused rescue as an known ment of trust the difficulties. For them. should rescue God why reasons may give writers petitions, Within sinned, deserve to suffer; or they’ve innocent, so they don’t example, they’re A writer may asking for forgiveness. fault and are their but they recognize should has helped in the past and argue that God times when God recall (This is a do so again in the present. God’s psalmist may suggest that The an individual or to the community.) is at stake, and even as a righteous judge and dependable deliverer reputation the wicked to uphold this reputation. to destroy ask God God’s offer a sacrifice to acknowledge the writer will go to the temple and Psalm 54 shows that psalms of supplication typically begin with a typically that psalms of supplication shows 54 Psalm help tional tones. with the cry (This may be combined also A complaint is follows. help. for to describe this the term “lament” use interpreters as a lament; some known 54, the Psalm whole, not just the complaint part.)type of psalm as a In - , for it is good. Lord I will praise your name, I will praise your all my troubles, me from delivered have You looked in triumph on my foes. have and my eyes vindicate me by your might. your vindicate me by O God; my prayer, Hear of my mouth. listen to the words tryingruthlesspeople are to kill me— for God. people without regard me. is the one who sustains the Lord them. faithfulness destroy in your Let evil recoil on those who slander me; Let evil recoil I will sacrifice a freewill offering to you; offering to I will sacrifice a freewill Arrogant foes are attacking me; attacking foes are Arrogant Save me, O God, by your name; your by God, me, O Save Surely God is my help; God Surely . (The fact that there are so many of these in the Bible in the of these so many are there fact that . (The

Vow of Praise Vow Statement Statement of Trust Petition Complaint Cry for Help Psalms of supplication are built out of a series of common elements. Not elements. Not built out of a series of common of supplication are Psalms But a psalm of supplication isn’t essentially about the troubles the writer about the troubles essentially isn’t a psalm of supplication But lustrates this pattern briefly and well: lustrates this pattern briefly and every psalm has all the elements, and the ones that are used can be presented every used can be presented and the ones that are psalm has all the elements, 54 il Psalm but a basic pattern can be recognized. of orders, in a variety psalms in the Bible show people at various stages along the journey towards stages along the journey towards at various people show psalms in the Bible this goal. wonders, “Does God really care about me? Is God fair? Is God able to help God fair? Is God about me? Is care really God wonders, “Does to be able to tell a psalm of supplication is for the writer me?” The goal of The raised. have all the questions the troubles despite “I still trustGod, you,” writer to work through a crisis of faith that these troubles have created. The created. have crisis of faith that these troubles a through writer to work into question. The psalmist and power goodness called God’s have troubles we do.) we for the a way it’s Rather, for help. a prayer not primarily It’s is experiencing. psalms of supplication psalms mind when help and doesn’t us to ask for does want really God suggests that

Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 18

Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 21 God, not love for God. How are these songs similar to, and God. How are these me,” rather than, “I still know you are a good and me,” rather than, trust in love The psalmist says, “my adversaries . . . twist my words,” “they The psalmist says, “my adversaries in The psalmist asks God to “list my tears on your scroll” or, Does appreciating the structure of a psalm help you of a psalm the structure Does appreciating do you know or traditional hymns songs What contemporary through worship songs speak of working Many contemporary Have someone read Psalm 56 out loud for the group. Then work together together Then work 56 out loud for the group. Psalm someone read Have cryto identify these elements in this psalm: for help and complaint; need for deliverance. What’s of God as someone it like to think who is keenly aware of your tears, even to the point of collecting them to remember how much you need his help? troubles to a place where the writer is able to say, “Lord, I know I know “Lord, where the writer is able to say, troubles to a place you still songs often express powerful God.” These specifically biblical psalms of supplication? different from, the  heels,” that is, “lookwatch my steps” (literally “watch my for a way been in a situation where people Have you ever to trip me up”). to trip you up? What kind of were twisting your words and trying fear does a situation like this create?  tears in your wineskin.” The another likely translation, to “put my of these tears, or even an actual image is of God keeping a record of the psalmist’scollection of them, to remind him suffering and  explain how. it better? If so, understand  Help example, “Lord, of supplication? (For that are like psalms Okeowo.) Me” by Tolu  2 of praise. statement of trust; complaint; petition; statement of trust; vow - - READING AND DISCUSSION READING Psalm 142: cry for help; statement of trust; complaint; cry for 142: cry for Psalm help with statement of trust; petition; vow of praise Psalm 13: cry for help and complaint; petition; statement of 13: cry for help and complaint; petition; statement Psalm trust; vow of praise of 61: cry for help; statement of trust; petition; vow Psalm praise petition; cry for help 70: cry for help; Psalm

Divide your group into teams and have each team look at one Divide your group into teams and • • • • The strong emotions that arise from the psalmists’ spiritual experi the psalmists’ from emotions that arise The strong to be expressed in order of structure some kind be given to ences have should also share their personal responses to the psalms they should also share their personal responses at these and other psalms, continue to (As you look consider. on the repetition of recognize how Hebrew poetry is based a line restates, contrasts with, or meaning—how the second part of extends what the first part says.) the elements listed occur within psalm. Then have each team read the elements listed occur within psalm. out these elements. If a its psalm(s) aloud to the group, pointing help, describe what they petition gives reasons why God should or it’sare. If there’s a complaint, say whether an “I/we,” “they,” members complaint, or some combination of these. Team “you”  supplication. Identify where or more of the following psalms of

songs and prayers. songs and prayers. “analyze” the psalms. (As Robert Frost once noted, poetry be lost not just can Frost the psalms. (As Robert “analyze” should seek to experience we Rather, in interpretation!) in translation but also both and that are experiences spiritual them as literary express that creations psalms often include some elements but not others and how the elements how some elements but not others and psalms often include goal must not be to But our ultimate orders. in different can be presented become better able to appreciate and share the experiences that the psalmists the experiences share and to appreciate become better able it. Looking at a number of short through of supplica psalms expressing are these it varies—how how basic pattern and also show tion can illustrate their 1 we this structure, to understand working By meaningfully. and effectively

Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 20

Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 23 - - FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER they get towards reaffirming their God despite their trust in reaffirming they get towards circumstances? 44 and 77 and observe they include a recol how Psalms Read they and how to the community past mercies lection of God’s will help the psalm to hope that God appeal to this as grounds Psalm 77 is a symbolic (The end of difficulty. ist in a present past Which of God’s Sea.) partingdepiction of God the Red you give community can and your family, your to you, mercies situation? current hope and encouragement in your Read Psalms 3, 4, 5, 27, 28, 64, 74, and 86. Which common 3, 4, 5, 27, 28, 64, 74, and 86. Psalms Read what order? they use? In elements of psalms of supplication do far do the writers facing? How are What kinds of troubles first. But it’s in rhyme or free verse. Songwriters also fine to write to music. can set their psalms • • thing is to write a psalm that authentically expresses where you where expresses that authentically a psalm is to write thing If you facing. currently troubles you’re God in whatever are with can leave out a place of trust, you through to yet worked haven’t simply that (Recognize psalms do. of trust, as some the statement to that God is willing some belief to God expresses complaining Those who prepared to act on your behalf.) listen and may be at Hebrew-stylewant to try their hand can write two-part poetry expands on the part repeats, contrasts with, or lines whose second

The second stanza is a further recollection that includes an The second stanza is a further accusation and a complaint. also includes an accusation stanza is a petition that The third of praise. but then ends with a vow The chorus is a repeated statement of trust (as in Psalm 56). repeated statement of trustThe chorus (as in is a God, for of desire The first stanza begins with an expression then includes a complaint instead of the usual cry It for help. and a recollection.

Give people some time to write their own personal psalms of Give people some time to write their Drawing on what you’ve learned about psalms of supplication learned about psalms of supplication Drawing on what you’ve Essentially the same statement of trust occurs twice within this twice within this of trust occurs the same statement Essentially You may recognize by now that Psalm 42–43, which you discussed in 42–43, which you that Psalm now by recognize may You of the characteristic elements of a session, contains many the previous meeting to share. People can use the five common elements meeting to share. People 54 as a model and write a psalm that includes illustrated in Psalm Or they can choose certain each element in the basic order. elements and put them in any order they want. The most important a place of renewed trust in God.  supplication and share them with the group if they’re comfortable. Or let them work on this at home and bring them to your next  writer working 42–43 shows the in this session, explain how Psalm have created and reaching through a crisis of faith that difficulties • • • • they reflect? What do you think brings about this change as the do you think brings about this change they reflect? What psalm? writer composes this psalm. It functions as a chorus between stanzas. (In cases like (In cases like between stanzas. functions as a chorus psalm. It we with the ones forms converge Hebrew songwriting this, ancient the two differences between are some subtle But there use today.) effect is the overall as you can. What Identify as many statements. What change in the psalmist’sof these differences? do perspective 

The subtle and masterful blending of these elements gives this psalm its great The subtle and masterful this psalm its great blending of these elements gives beauty and power.

3 these elements: Look again at this psalm and consider psalm of supplication.

Psalms of Supplication: The Basic Form 22 SESSION 3

PSALMS OF THANKSGIVING: THE BASIC FORM

INTRODUCTION In the last session we looked at psalms of supplication and saw that they often include a promise to offer a public sacrifice in acknowledgment of God’s deliverance. When ancient Israelites went to the temple to offer these sacrifices, they typically sang another kind of psalm at their celebration meal, a psalm of thanksgiving. Often they put their personal experiences into words by using timeless songs that others had written. Through continual use, these became part of the community’s lasting heritage of worship songs, and they were ultimately gathered into the book of Psalms as we know it today. But a psalm of thanksgiving isn’t primarily a way to say thank you, just as a psalm of supplication isn’t primarily a way to ask for help. Instead, a psalm of thanksgiving addresses the same crisis of faith that a psalm of supplication does. The troubles that people experience raise questions about God’s goodness and power. And it’s not only the person who’s in trouble who has these questions. Those around them, looking on, also wonder how God could let this happen. So when a person experiences God’s love within a difficult situation and ultimately God’s deliverance from that situation, it is their duty and privilege to restore God’s reputation in the eyes of those around them.

Psalms of Thanksgiving: The Basic Form 27

summary praise and , a vivid depiction of God , a vivid depiction of God that encourages the family , describing how God came to God , describing how , and be merciful to me; , and be merciful theophany Lord , be my help.” forever. you I will praise my God, often follows, explaining in more detail explaining in more often follows, call to worship Lord into dancing; turned my wailing You Lord Will it proclaim your faithfulness? your it proclaim Will and clothed me my sackcloth removed you with joy, that my heart and not praises may sing your be silent. song of victory

description of troubles of how the writer called to God for help and was delivered from from for help and was delivered to God the writer called of how to God. A description of the sacrifice and the reason why it’s being of reason why it’s A description of the sacrifice and the to God. Psalms of thanksgiving typically conclude with expressions of typically conclude with expressions of thanksgiving Psalms Praise and Thanks Praise a These psalms then present A longer may be a Then there Hear, Song of Victory theophanies is the recollection of how God parted the waters of the Red Sea Sea parted God the waters of the Red of how theophanies is the recollection slavery to escape from in Egypt. the Israelites to allow thanks temple with burnt “I will come to your 66: may be included, as in Psalm fered promised and my mouth lips my you—vows to vows my and fulfill offerings combines the description of 30 creatively Psalm spoke when I was in trouble.” As Psalm 30 shows, psalms of thanksgiving often begin with a with begin often of thanksgiving psalms shows, 30 Psalm As statement or it may around, gathered This may be spoken to the people who’ve trouble. to God. directly be addressed along with priests from for the celebration meal, gathered and friends who’ve (The call his deliverance. for in praising God the temple, to join the psalmist the summaryto worship may also come first, before statement.) This is much like the complaint in a psalm what difficulties the writer faced. are in the past tense—these troubles related that it’s of supplication, except writer the troubles, these in that specifies typically description This over. now for help. called out to God this includes a Sometimes the rescue. an to do cosmic battle with his opponents. (There’s coming out of heaven 18, for example.) A primary theme of these extended theophany in Psalm

, you his , you Lord , Lord , I called; , brought me up from the realm realm the me up from , brought Lord , when you favored me, favored , when you my God, I called to you for help, I called to you my God, Lord To you, you, To Lord Sing the praises of the Sing I said, When I felt secure, Lord you made my royal mountain stand firm; made my royal you face, hid your but when you I was dismayed. “What is gained if I am silenced, to the pit? if I go down the dust praise you? Will but rejoicing comes in the morning. but rejoicing be shaken.” “I will never for you lifted me out of the depths lifted me out for you me. enemies gloat over and did not let my healed me. and you of the dead; to the pit. going down me from spared you faithful people; praise his holy name. his anger lasts only a moment, For lasts a lifetime; but his favor may stay for the night, weeping to the Lord I cried for mercy: to the Lord I will exalt you, I will exalt you,

cry for help) of (includes recollection Description of Troubles

You, Call to Worship Summary Statement Like psalms of supplication, psalms of thanksgiving are built out of a built are psalms of thanksgiving of supplication, Like psalms Psalm 30. Psalm number of common elements. They have a basic pattern that is creatively creatively pattern that is a basic They have common elements. number of by well is illustrated This pattern situations. various to address adapted Psalms of thanksgiving are essentially intended as a public vindication of vindication public a as intended essentially are thanksgiving of Psalms and power. goodness God’s

Psalms of Thanksgiving: The Basic Form 26

Psalms of Thanksgiving: The Basic Form 29 - - - ) is a Hallelu Yah Hallelu (with me)!” for help. A song of vic for help. Lord ” (Hebrew ” (Hebrew Lord Lord , praise the , the translators’ notes are at the end of notes are , the translators’ All of you All The Books of the Bible of the The Books If you’re a follower of Jesus and have observed the Lord’s of Jesus and have observed the Lord’s a follower If you’re What are some good ways for family and friends to encourage ways for family and friends to What are some good .”) and call for the celebration to begin, saying, “Bind the festal sacrifice the festal sacrifice “Bind to begin, saying, call for the celebration and .”) Have someone read Psalm 116 for the group. Notice how it, too, incor how Notice 116 for the group. Psalm someone read Have slightly but in a of thanksgiving, of a psalm the basic elements porates  share with the group what it’s like to think of it as Supper regularly, an occasion to thank God for deliverance from deadly danger and to vindicate God’s reputation for power and goodness. people who’ve experienced God’s mercies to share this publicly God’s mercies to share people who’ve experienced can they kinds of celebrations and ceremonies with others? What can the listeners play at these events? arrange? What role is based on Jesus observe today, of which followers Supper, The Lord’s  honor of deliverance) and a ceremonial food, the “thank offering,” the meat offering,” food, the “thank and a ceremonial honor of deliverance) the sacrificed animal. from 2 with a summaryIt begins and then immediately statement order. different the psalmist experienced troubles description of how detailed a more gives a deadly illness) and called on the (apparently of The last third death.” . . . from “delivered God tory describing how follows, the celebration meal in the temple. The the psalm is an extended depiction of the “Praise final line is the call to worship. meaning “ plural imperative, (particularlysung were thanksgiving of psalms where meals celebration the com the Israelites where meal, a special celebration in homes the Passover slavery them from Another name for in Egypt). rescued God memorated how 116 Psalm literally means “thanksgiving.” the Eucharist, Supper, the Lord’s a around these ancient meals centered Supper, us that like the Lord’s shows that is, the cup in (or “deliverance,” of salvation” drink, the “cup ceremonial call for his continued help, the people who are invited to the meal apparently apparently to the meal invited who are the people help, his continued call for in the name of the is he who comes (“Blessed bless the psalmist and welcome Lord alternative the NIV (See horns of the altar.” take it to the and with ropes In translation. for prepared and be slain will the animal is where This of Psalms.) the book for thanksgiving. call another and praise concludes with psalm meal. The the - READING AND DISCUSSION

If learning about psalms of thanksgiving has made you realize If learning about psalms of thanksgiving As we saw in session 2, when psalmists give reasons why God 2, when psalmists give reasons As we saw in session What contemporary songs or traditional hymns do you know do you know or traditional hymns songs What contemporary tory over enemies in battle. As a group, notice its elements. It begins notice its elements. It enemies in battle. As a group, tory over Have someone read Psalm 118. It’s most likely a thanksgiving for vic for thanksgiving a likely most It’s 118. Psalm read someone Have

or church if you can give a public testimony of what God did or church if you can give a public may want to do this by writing your own psalm of for you. You using or adapting the basic pattern outlined in this thanksgiving, psalm for your group or session and reading or singing your church. here on earth?)  for you that you’ve that God has done something important ask the leaders of your group never publicly given him credit for, I am silenced, if I go down to the pit? Will the dust praise you? go down to the pit? Will I am silenced, if I find Do you think God would it proclaim your faithfulness?” Will go to be in of Jesus who die this argument convincing? (Followers God’s presence, and they’re there, so able to praise him forever praised and acknowledged why is it so important for God to be  be they won’t they often say that if they perish, should help them, 30 in Psalm public praise and vindication. Here able to offer God making this same argument: “Whatthe writer recalls is gained if  as they’re psalms of thanksgiving, that are like here? described Lifted Me.”) example, the gospel song “Love (For to bring the psalmist from a place of despair into a place of worship. of despair into a place the psalmist from to bring the temple to give thanks. After a further depiction of God’s deliverance and a deliverance thanks. After a furtherthe temple to give depiction of God’s with a call to worship and a summary statement, then offers a song of victory. with a call to worship and a summary statement, then offers a song of victory. into “gates of the righteous” the a description of going through Then there’s 1 God’s deliverance with its expression of praise: it says that God’s deliverance deliverance God’s it says that praise: of its expression with deliverance God’s was

Psalms of Thanksgiving: The Basic Form 28 P salms of T hanksgiving FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION SESSION 4 • Read Psalms 18, 66, and 138, and identify which common elements of psalms of thanksgiving they use and in what order. • Psalms 18 and 144 include theophanies (descriptions of God coming in power to the rescue). The one in Psalm 18 is particularly extended. If you’re an artist, create an illustration of this

: T he B asic F orm theophany and share it with your group. If you don’t draw or PSALMS OF PRAISE: THE BASIC FORM paint, look online for a photograph or illustration, or choose a photo you’ve taken yourself that you think is a good depiction of a theophany.

INTRODUCTION The third common type of psalm is thepsalm of praise. It is built out of two basic elements, a call to worship and a reason to worship. The reason to worship may be introduced by the words “for” or “because,” or with phrases such as “I know” or “know that.” A single psalm may present two or more calls to worship, each with its accompanying reasons, and many psalms of praise end with a final call to worship. The basic pattern is illustrated briefly and well by Psalm 117:

Call to Worship Praise the Lord, all you nations; extol him, all you peoples.

Reason to Worship For great is his love toward us, and the faithfulness of the Lord endures forever.

Call to Worship Praise the Lord. (Hallelu Yah)

Psalms of thanksgiving can also include these two elements. For example, the call to worship in Psalm 30 includes a reason to worship:

Call to Worship Sing the praises of the Lord, you his faithful people; 30 praise his holy name. 31

Psalms of Praise: The Basic Form 33 ? Which ones have to do with God’s power, and which ones and which with God’s power, ones have to do ? Which As a group, identify where the three calls to worship and the where the three calls to worship As a group, identify This psalm concludes by praising God for giving his “laws This psalm concludes by praising and What different reasons does Psalm 100 give to worship the 100 give Psalm reasons does What different in this session, write your the basic pattern described Following Have someone read Psalm 103. As you listen, notice how it follows it follows notice how listen, 103. As you Psalm someone read Have an extended a simple pattern for a psalm of praise: a call to worship, Have someone read Psalm 147 out loud. Psalm someone read Have  ord three reasons to worship occur in this psalm. (In this case, the occur in this psalm. (In this three reasons to worship introduced by words like “for”reason sections aren’t or “know reasons to worship that are that.”) Then list all of the individual ones describe God’s woven together in each section. Which God’s compassionate care greatness as Creator? Which describe as the ruler of the nations for the creation? Which speak of God or as the leader of Israel?  see the theme of God’s laws decrees” to the people of Israel. We’ll psalms. Think about what and teachings taken up in many other had never given his laws the world would be like today if God imperatives had never been to ancient Israel and if their moral together as a group and praise shared with other nations. Pray in the world. God for the difference this has made  L with God’s goodness? have to do  a songwriter. and set it to music if you’re own psalm of praise your church if group or in a worship gathering of Share it with your comfortable doing so. you’re 3 own person The writer’s then another call to worship. to worship, reason is addressed in the opening call, and the whole creation is addressed (“soul”) in the concluding call. 2 his anger lasts only a moment, lasts his anger but his favor lasts a lifetime; but his favor stay for the night, may weeping morning. comes in the but rejoicing For

READING AND DISCUSSION

Have you ever had an experience when you had no really Have you ever had an experience What contemporary songs or traditional hymns do you know What contemporary songs or traditional Have someone read Psalm 100 out loud for the group. As you listen, listen, As you 100 out loud for the group. Psalm someone read Have of a psalm of praise is repeated notice that the characteristic pattern

 turned to worship God? pressing troubles and your spirit naturally If so, share it with the group.  that are like psalms of praise? Psalms of praise take up as their themes the very of praise take up as their themes can things that troubles Psalms

Reason Reason to Worship introduced by “for.” by introduced twice: there’s a call to worship, followed by a reason to worship introduced by by to worship introduced a reason by followed a call to worship, twice: there’s worship to reason a by followed worship, to call another then that,” “know 1 leader of the people of Israel, and for his mercy and compassion in delivering, compassion in delivering, and and for his mercy leader of the people of Israel, and preserving those who trust in him. for, providing call into question: God’s power and goodness. In them, God is praised for his them, God and goodness. In power call into question: God’s as the ruler of the world and of the nations and the as the Creator greatness of heaven and all’s right with the world, or at least that all will be made right with the world, or at least that all will right and all’s of heaven is extended farther and farther. reign as God’s goodness have been called into question by troubles, but God has then been been then has God but troubles, by question into called been have goodness the instead the ideal default state of of praise represent vindicated. Psalms God is on the throne confidence that a settled declare They faithful believer. But there’s an important difference between the two types. Psalms of the two types. between important an difference there’s But and power when God’s of a crisis of faith, the resolution thanksgiving express

Psalms of Praise: The Basic Form 32

Psalms of Praise: The Basic Form 35 reasons are introduced by words or phrases such as “for” or “for” such as or phrases words by introduced are reasons as power God’s Which describe and which aren’t? that,” “know world, ruler of the or leader of Israel? of the nations, Creator or in caring for the creation goodness God’s Which describe who trust for those preserving,in protecting, and providing the goal of trying that the in him? (Remember to recognize is to become better able types of psalms forms of the different are the experiences that the psalmists and share to appreciate them.) through expressing

Lord Description of God’s general mercies general of God’s Description Declaration of God’s reign of God’s Declaration reign of God’s Declaration FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER Read Psalms 95, 98, 135, and 149 and identify the call to Psalms Read Which to worship sections in each psalm. worship and reason Call to worship Call to worship (with description of individual mercies) Call to worship (with . This shape was considered particularly elegant and refined in Hebrew Hebrew refined in particularly elegant and . This shape was considered What statements in Psalm 103 do you find most encouraging What statements in Psalm The occasion of this psalm is probably the writer’s The occasion of this psalm is probably recent works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed”; “The for all the oppressed”; and justice righteousness works •  to your present situation in personally? Why? How do they speak had in the past? life or to significant experiences you’ve leads the psalmist into a general reflection on the way God “does on the way God “does leads the psalmist into a general reflection character qualities does not treat us as our sins deserve.” What according to this psalm? way, God have that lead him to act this List as many as you can.  recovery from a life-threatening illness. See how this is suggested often a fine line between a in the opening call to worship. (There’s but a given psalm’s psalm of praise and a psalm of thanksgiving, which kind it is.) This recovery specific form can help us recognize as known sections like this are out of paired Compositions built

The general description in the center of this psalm of God’s mercy and mercy God’s of this psalm center of in the description general The literature. chiasms we’ll see in later sessions. These two declarations give this psalm another kind give in later sessions. These two declarations see we’ll shape: of overall Lord God’s all.” rules and his kingdom in heaven, over his throne has established and righteous ruleenthronement of praise psalms, as dominant theme is a compassionate care is bracketed by two brief declarations of God’s rule: “The of God’s two brief declarations by is bracketed care compassionate

Psalms of Praise: The Basic Form 34 SESSION 5

PSALMS THAT COMBINE THE BASIC FORMS

INTRODUCTION As we’ve noted, the three forms that psalms typically take (supplication, thanksgiving, praise) provide the biblical songwriters with a basic structure for the creative expression of the powerful emotions and intense spiritual sensations that arise from their deep experiences with God. But the psalmist’s responses to their experiences are often so creative that they actually transform the very literary forms that are supposed to structure them. Psalmists can adapt or combine different forms into something new that doesn’t quite fit any of the categories we’ve described in the previous sessions. This should not surprise us. Creative expression can’t be restricted to tightly defined forms. The last thing we want to do is “classify” the psalms, rather than understand, appreciate, enjoy, and be moved by them. In this session we’ll look at some of the psalms that adapt or combine the forms we’ve learned about, in order to appreciate the creativity and vitality behind all of these musical expressions of spiritual experience in the Bible.

READING AND DISCUSSION 1 Have someone read Psalm 33 out loud for the group. 37

Psalms That Combine the Basic Forms 39 - .” Lord for his Lord The specific reference in this psalm is probably to caravans The specific reference in this psalm also includes anyone crossing the desert, but this category who’s “lost” in life. held prisoner by things like inmates, as well as anyone who’s depression, addiction, etc. anyone who feels as if they’re storms in life tossed by violent and at risk of “drowning.” to cultivate a project over the long term. Which of the following groups that are named in Psalm 107 are named in Psalm Which of the following groups that • find their way “home.” who are “lost” and can’t People • This could include actual prison in “darkness.” “Prisoners” • who are gravely ill. People • the ocean, and more broadly and sailors at risk on Fishers • depending on a good harvest, and anyone who has Farmers In effect, the return from exile inspires this writer to think of many dif this writer to think of exile inspires return from effect, the In  have you had that are like do you identify with? What experiences work in these experiences? theirs, and how have you seen God But Psalm 107 is also unlike typical thanksgiving psalms in many ways. in many psalms thanksgiving unlike typical is also 107 Psalm But opening call to praise. After an like a psalm of more its form, it’s In presenting calls and reasons to “give thanks,” rather than to “praise the than to “praise rather thanks,” to “give calls and reasons presenting of various groups that specific deliverances for thanks are And the reasons and power objective rather than aspects of God’s experienced, people have this is a true of the thanksgiving and praise forms. blending goodness. So in the course of life, and faithfully rescues whom God of people groups ferent to the in giving “thanks to issue a call for all of them to join a combination of Only and his wonderful deeds for mankind.” unfailing love heart. in this writer’s what’s express two forms can effectively It doesn’t ask others to join in celebrating a deliverance that the writer has that the writer in celebrating a deliverance others to join ask doesn’t It been they’ve how them to recognize it asks Instead, personally. experienced for that. God and to thank themselves delivered and each one concludes with to worship, a series of reasons it gives worship, very similarly and function as all worded These are another call to worship. the psalm is actually chorussong. But after each stanza of this a repeated - - as the righteous ruler as the righteous as the power of the world, Lord ”? If so, tell the group about this experience.

ord

Have you ever had an experience when a difficult or dangerous Have you ever had an experience Take turns reading Psalm 107 out loud. One person can start,can person and One loud. out 107 Psalm reading turns Take should begin each time the psalm startsthen a new to describe reader Psalm 107 is essentially a psalm of thanksgiving. It’s written to celebrate 107 is essentially a psalm of thanksgiving. It’s Psalm for the  or power, raise questions for you about God’s goodness trial didn’t faith and “wait in hope and you were able to face it with confident We can infer from what the psalmist says that the country is at war, likely psalmist says that the country what the can infer from is at war, We This psalm begins and develops like a psalm of praise. There’s a call to to a call There’s praise. of psalm a like develops and begins psalm This in the past, and it describes a public acknowledgment of God through the through of God in the past, and it describes a public acknowledgment people.” “assembly of the in the “thank offerings” of “sacrifice” the return of the Israelites from exile, as its opening states. Like a typical a Like states. opening its as exile, from Israelites the of return the now are that troubles from a deliverance thanksgiving psalm, it recounts into a desert.” The person who takes this part should read all the way to the part The person who takes this should into a desert.” end of the psalm.) the experiences of a different group. (These descriptions begin with “Some (These descriptions begin with group. the experiences of a different turned rivers etc. The last one begins, “He in darkness,” sat “Some wandered,” 2 response to it is best expressed in a psalm of praise, so the two forms are are in a psalm of praise, so the two forms to it is best expressed response combined. creatively his people, the writer’s faith remains firm and settled, so that the psalm asserts firm and settled, so that the faith remains his people, the writer’s trustof stance a from rule, deliverance for petitions it authoritative and God’s a psalm of supplication, but the writer’s and confidence. The occasion calls for ine” and “death.” But this does not provoke a crisis of faith for the psalmist. the for faith of crisis a provoke not does this But and “death.” ine” abandoning of God accusing or this allow can God how asking than Rather While it begins as a psalm of praise, it ends as a psalm of supplication. a psalm of praise, it ends as a psalm of While it begins as “fam by threatened are since the people invasion, trying a foreign repel to a final call to worship. But instead, Psalm 33 then talks about how only God God only Psalm 33 then talks about how But instead, a final call to worship. with a statement of trust and it concludes and a petition. can truly deliver, worship describes the worship describes and as the of the nations, of the destinies as the commander ful Creator, in like this to culminate a psalm of praise would expect We Israel. leader of worship, followed by a reason to worship introduced by “for.” The reason to reason The “for.” by introduced to worship a reason by followed worship,

Psalms That Combine the Basic Forms 38 P salms T hat C ombine the B asic F orms Once everyone has shared, pray together as a group and SESSION 6 give thanks to God for his “unfailing love” and the “wonderful deeds” you’ve seen him do in situations like these.

FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION • Read Psalm 40 and observe that it’s made up of a fully formed psalm of thanksgiving, followed by a fully formed psalm of PSALMS THAT EXPAND ONE ELEMENT supplication. (Identify the elements in each one.) The sup- WITHIN A FORM plication section has been carefully crafted to fit together with the thanksgiving section, intentionally echoing its language in several places. It appears that a psalmist who came to the temple to celebrate a recent deliverance was also facing a new trouble, and so used the occasion of thanking God to make a renewed petition for help.  Have you ever emerged from one difficult situation, only to find INTRODUCTION yourself plunged into another? Were you able to take courage We saw in the previous session that the psalmists sometimes combine the from the thought that the same God who delivered you from basic forms in order to express their spiritual experiences more effectively. But the first difficulty was still with you in the second one? (Can this the primary way in which the psalmists creatively adapt the basic forms is by thought encourage you now?) expanding one particular element within them, so that it determines a psalm’s overall shape and meaning. In certain cases it can crowd out all of the other elements and make up the entire psalm. We’ve already seen something of this process in earlier sessions. As you looked at a group of short supplication psalms in session 2, you saw how certain elements can be omitted from the basic form and others expanded. In the further reading and discussion section of session 3, you saw a brief theophany in Psalm 144 and an expanded one in Psalm 18 that makes up a significant portion of that psalm. In this session we’ll look at this process in more detail. In the following sessions, we’ll look at the kinds of psalms that are created when certain elements of the basic forms are greatly expanded to develop specific themes and speak to particular situations in life.

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Psalms That Expand One Element Within a Form 43 - from from Lord , “Praise the , “Praise . from the earth” the earth” from Lord Lord Hallelu Yah Hallelu at the beginning and end). The calls at the beginning and end). The calls Hallelu Yah Hallelu should worship. The first half begins, “Praise the first half begins, The should worship. who What contemporary songs or traditional hymns do you know What contemporary songs or traditional What do you picture when you think about all of creation The author of Psalm 17 tells God, “My steps have held to your “My steps have 17 tells God, of Psalm The author ”), expands to fill the entire second half, so that the reason to worship is so that the half, second the entire ”), expands to fill Have someone read Psalm 96. Notice how it follows the most basic pat the it follows how 96. Notice Psalm someone read Have introduced to worship reason praise: call to worship, tern of a psalm of  that are almost entirely calls to worship?  praising God together? Then have someone read Psalm 148. Notice its pattern: call to worship, worship, to call pattern: its Notice 148. Psalm read someone have Then takes worship to call the how See 150. Psalm read someone have Finally,  the is of God leading The image “to your tracks.” paths,” literally feet. God put his own right where the psalmist stepping way and are follow? How well “tracks” for you to been laying out Has God feet in them? at placing your you doing God should be worshipped—as the Creator and as Israel’s deliverer (the deliverer Israel’s as and Creator the worshipped—as be should God by “for,” call to worship. But in this case the concluding call to worship, worship, to call concluding the case this in But worship. to call “for,” by can be as shortwhich in other psalms as a single line ( Lord only one quarter of the psalm. to worship reason worship, call to “for,” by to worship introduced reason (with “for” by introduced explains briefly bulk of this psalm. It to worship once again make up the why and military to strength victory). refers its essential But image of the “horn” focus is on and then calls upon the angels and the sun, moon, stars, and sky the heavens” the The second half begins, “Praise to worship God. of the landscape, and plants, animals, features and calls upon natural forces, and humans to worship God. the Instead, to worship is given. psalm—basically no reason this entire over repertoire, instrumentspsalmist calls on the various musician’s in the ancient to praise the “everything that has breath,” and finally on 2 - - claim of (NIV “blame tam (NIV “just”), meaning that they’ve faithfully fulfilled faithfully meaning that they’ve (NIV “just”), READING AND DISCUSSION READING tsedeq among the reasons they give why God should deliver the should deliver why God they give reasons among the

Do you think a person today could realistically conclude that We saw in session 2 that psalms of supplication can include a supplication can 2 that psalms of saw in session We innocence they haven’t caused their own troubles by straying from the right they haven’t path and that they can expect God’s deliverance because they consciously doing anything they know is wrong? aren’t  Psalmists who make claims of innocence like this aren’t asserting that who make claims of innocence like this aren’t Psalmists Troubling situations in the life of a person of faith call for self-exami situations in the life Troubling

the way of the wicked. (We’ll learn much more about these two “ways” when about these two “ways” learn much more the way of the wicked. (We’ll consider the wisdom psalms in session 16.) we is wrong, and as is wrong, chosen they’ve that saying They’re neighbor. and God to responsibilities their the righteous, rather than the general way of life that characterizes to follow they’re entirely sinless. Rather, they describe themselves as they describe themselves sinless. Rather, entirely they’re consciously doing anything that they know meaning that they aren’t less”), haven’t brought their troubles on themselves through disobedience or neglect disobedience through on themselves their troubles brought haven’t them. to deliver ways, and so they expect God of God’s in Psalm 26 we have an enlarged snapshot of the moment when a person an enlarged snapshot of the moment when have 26 we in Psalm they that confidently declare to self-examination of exercise the from emerges be faced honestly and responsibly before a person can credibly ask God for ask God a person can credibly before be faced honestly and responsibly briefer indications that have 17, we as Psalm many psalms, such In help. But them satisfactorily. and answered the psalmist has asked these questions wasn’t walking closely with God and strayed off the right path?” and even “Is “Is even off the right path?” and and strayed God walking closely with wasn’t These questions must punishing me because I did something wrong?” God beginning and of a vow of praise at the end. of praise vow beginning and of a because I I get into this situation questions such as, “Did nation. They raise God. Then have someone read Psalm 26 and notice how this entire psalm is this entire Psalm 26 and notice how read someone Then have God. of a cry of innocence, with only the whisper a claim essentially at the for help these basic elements: crythese basic elements: trust claim of innocence, statement of and for help, this case, enemies), of troubles—in complaint (description petition for help, statement of trust and a final and confidence in help, another petition for 1 it includes notice how 17 out loud and Psalm someone read Have psalmist.

Psalms That Expand One Element Within a Form 42 P salms T hat E xpand O ne E lement W ithin a F orm  If you wish, conclude your time together by singing, listening SESSION 7 to, or watching Matt Redman’s song “Let Everything That Has Breath,” which is inspired by Psalm 150 and develops many of the themes we’ve seen in praise psalms. (“Praise You in the heavens, joining with the angels . . . Praise You on the earth now, joining with creation.”) PSALMS OF SUPPLICATION WITH AN EXPANDED STATEMENT OF TRUST FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION • Read Psalm 114 and notice that, by contrast, it’s a psalm of praise that consists almost entirely of a reason to worship: Psalms of Trust God’s deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. There’s only a hint of a call to worship at the end, when the psalm says, “Tremble, earth, at the presence of the Lord.” In later sessions you’ll consider more praise psalms that basically give reasons to INTRODUCTION worship, with no calls to worship. When the statement of trust in a supplication psalm expands and dis- • Read Psalm 52 and notice that it consists almost entirely of the places most of the other elements, a psalm of trust is created. While troubles condemnation of a wicked man. Many supplication psalms may still be perceptible in the background, these psalms are essentially calm, include a call for the destruction of the wicked to show that stately affirmations of reliance on God by writers who have worked through the psalmist longs for God’s justice. We’ve already seen some whatever crisis of faith their troubles may have generated. Psalm 46 (which briefer examples of this (for example, in Psalm 28), but in the we considered in session 1), with its repeated assertion that “the Lord case of Psalm 52, the condemnation is expanded and takes Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress,” is a good example of up almost the entire psalm. In session 10 we’ll look at more a psalm of trust. psalms like this.

READING AND DISCUSSION One of the simplest and most beautiful psalms of trust is Psalm 131. 1 Have someone read it aloud for the group.  A weaned child is one who is no longer nursing, but who may still rest quietly in its mother’s bosom because being in her presence is so peaceful. What is it like to use this image to think about calming and quieting your soul before God?

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Psalms of Supplication with an Expanded Statement of Trust (Psalms of Trust) 47 - A Shepherd Looks A Shepherd Looks as his own shepherd—provid as his own Lord (often sung to the tune “Brother James’ as your shepherd is most meaningful to as your shepherd is most meaningful ord L , explain what a shepherd has to do to provide sheep , explain what a shepherd has to do Scottish Psalter He provides for me. He guides me. He enjoys my company. He protects me.

What about the 23 over based on Psalm Many songs and hymns have been If you’ve ever cared for sheep or seen someone care for them, ever cared for sheep or seen someone care If you’ve a. b. c. d. The best-known psalm of trust, and indeed the most beloved of all the of all the of trust, psalm most beloved indeed the and best-known The (in unison). out loud all together this psalm 23. Read Psalm psalms, is  in the years, including “The I’ll Not Want” My Shepherd, Lord’s the 1650 Air”), “The My Shepherd Is” by Henry Baker (1868), King of Love “The Carmichael (1969), “The is My New 23rd” by Ralph Lord 23” by Jason Green (1982), and “Psalm Shepherd” by Keith  read a book such as Philip Keller’s or if you’ve 23 at Psalm In safe pasture, and protection from predators. with clean water, what figure corresponds most a modern, urban, industrial society, closely to a shepherd?  you right now? Why? Psalm 23 is traditionally attributed to David. While we can’t be entirely be entirely can’t While we to David. traditionally attributed 23 is Psalm ing for him, guiding him, protecting him, and enjoying his company. Even Even his company. him, and enjoying him, protecting ing for him, guiding “darkest death (NIV mentions enemies and the danger of though it briefly this psalm is primarily of death”), of the shadow “valley is literally the valley” loving, trust of peaceful, confident in the divine shepherd’s an expression watchful care. 4 their regarding all the psalms up around grew that of the traditions confident was a David well-founded. seems to be this case the tradition authors, in experience tending his own From king. he became Israel’s before shepherd been able to develop would have he and with his songwriting ability, sheep, this marvelous extended image of the .” Lord , me have searched searched have You himself speaking at the end to promise deliverance to all deliverance himself speaking at the end to promise Lord

Find out who in your group has been the deepest Find Have you ever felt God give you the assurance he’d protect What do you believe God was thinking as he watched you What do you believe God was thinking Are you concerning yourself with “great matters” that are “too matters” with “great concerning yourself Are you rescue, are in the foreground, not the background. But the whole psalm But not the background. in the foreground, are rescue, In Psalm 91, the troubles and dangers, and the need to call on God for call on God the need to and and dangers, 91, the troubles Psalm In by wicked enemies and so enters a process of soul-searching and self- and of soul-searching so enters a process wicked enemies and by Have someone read Psalm 139. The author of this psalm is troubled troubled 139. The author of this psalm is Psalm someone read Have  you from danger at a particular time or in a particular place? If so, tell the group about this. Why is it that people sometimes do suffer harm or injury even when they’re faithfully following God?

 take shape in your mother’s days was God womb? What great then? ordaining for you to live out even the farthest away from your current location. Then give thanks the farthest away from your current people was any farther together as a group that none of these person in the most sacred from the presence of God than a worship space you can imagine.  the longest in the dark, and underground, the highest in the air, wonderful” for you? Which things in your life right now are your right now are your things in your life for you? Which wonderful” only you and can which are beyond to address, and responsibility to God? be entrusted  who call on him. Have someone read this psalm aloud for the group. someone read who call on him. Have is nevertheless a serene and confident affirmation of God’s protection and protection God’s and confident affirmation of is nevertheless a serene with the care, 3 wherever we may be. we wherever and asks God for help in self-examination, most of this psalm is an extended, is psalm this most of self-examination, in for help God asks and thinking and everything knows we’re God on how meditation rapturous day and night, lives, our us throughout over he watches doing, and how examination that leads to the realization, “ leads to the realization, examination that pray at the end for the destructionWhile the writer does enemies of these 2

Psalms of Supplication with an Expanded Statement of Trust (Psalms of Trust) 46 P salms of S upplication with an E xpanded S tatement of T rust (P salms ) Upton (2002). Which one is your favorite, and why? Sing a version SESSION 8 together in your group, or watch a video of one online.

FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION • Read Psalms 16, 62, and 63. These are other examples of PSALMS OF SUPPLICATION FOR HEALING psalms of trust. How do they encourage you to “trust in him at all times . . . for God is our refuge”? OF SICKNESS

INTRODUCTION Many of the psalms of supplication ask God to heal the psalmist from a grave illness. In these psalms the complaint may be greatly expanded. The writers describe in evocative imagery what it’s like to be severely afflicted in body, to have their friends avoid and desert them, to have their enemies gloat over their condition and look forward to their death, and to feel that God is punishing them through their sickness. Down through the centuries faithful people suffering from serious illnesses have found great encouragement in these psalms. They show that others who’ve trusted in God have also gone through the experience of sickness. They model an honest expression to God of the agony and despair that disease can cause. And ultimately they demonstrate that faith and hope can remain strong even when the body is weak.

READING AND DISCUSSION Have someone read Psalm 102, and notice its elements as a psalm of 1 supplication: opening cry for help; complaint; statement of trust; vow of praise; petition. This psalm was composed some time after the Babylonians 48 49

Psalms of Supplication for Healing of Sickness 51 - - What further aspects of the experience of physical suffering What further aspects of the experience something the psalmist has In this case the suffering is due to What aspects of the experience of serious illness does Psalm Instead of a vow of praise, the psalm argues that the writer, that the writer, the psalm argues a vow of praise, Instead of Have someone read Psalm 22 for the group. Observe open that after an 22 for the group. Psalm someone read Have an expanded complaint, ing cry for help and a statement of trust, there’s Have someone read Psalm 38 and notice that it, too, consists almost Psalm someone read Have for a brief statement of trust and a con of a complaint, except entirely  see depicted in the note aspects you didn’t 22 depict? Particularly earlier psalms in this session. and acknowledged here. If we approached life more from this here. If we approached life more and acknowledged for divine think we would pray more fervently perspective, do you that than taking comfort in the thought deliverances, rather us in the next suffer on earth will be made up to anything we might life?  38 depict? How? does Psalm  not told specifically what this was.) In addition (We’re done wrong. crushed by the weight of guilt. to physical pain, the psalmist feels today might experience Describe some ways in which a person wrong choices. What hope or illness or injury because of their own 38? this find in Psalm encouragement could a person like This is one of the darkest psalms in the Bible. What is the value of value is the Bible. What in the psalms the darkest is one of This of experience? to this kind voice within the Scriptures giving a  the grave, from praise God from be able to won’t if not healed, the “land earth is a place The perspective is that this of oblivion.” in a unique and goodness are experienced where God’s power so it’s and important for them to be appreciated vitally way, 4 of praise. an extended vow and then, after a brief petition, there’s 3 cluding cry for help. - .” The psalmists recognize how ord L

The author of this psalm has suffered from a lifelong illness Psalm 102 expresses the hope that the writer’s Psalm experience will The psalmist appeals to God, “Do not take me away . . . in to God, “Do not take me away The psalmist appeals How do the images in the complaint capture the experience of the experience complaint capture the images in the How do Have someone read Psalm 88. Notice that after an opening cry for help, 88. Notice Psalm someone read Have without a state of the psalm consists of an expanded complaint, the rest  petition, the Instead of a without any relief. (“from my youth”) psalm describes how the writer’s prayers for healing have gone unanswered. The psalmist feels totally abandoned and forgotten. spiritual experiences, and they hope that people of later times will spiritual experiences, and they hope As you in the same way. be able to use their own compositions for healing in this session, consider several psalms that are prayers pray for your own situation see if they can help you speak to and and that of your loved ones.  be an encouragement “for a future generation, that a people not yet created may praise the earlier songs to express their the people of their time are using the midst of my days.” The argument seems to be, “God, your The argument seems to be, the midst of my days.” to appreciate all generations,’ but you have ‘years go on through they’re ‘cut short my days,’ since the brevity of human life; don’t would be moved by an appeal Do you think God already so few.” like this? people you know, to identify the various aspects of this experience to identify the various aspects people you know, as they’re 102 (physical pain, loss of appetite, depicted in Psalm isolation, etc.).   or those of Draw on your own times of sickness, prolonged illness? 2 ment of trust a petition. or even “respond to the prayer of the destitute.” destitute.” of the to the prayer “respond destroyed Jerusalem. It compares the writer’s experience of sickness to the to of sickness experience writer’s the compares It Jerusalem. destroyed and Zion” both “rebuild will prays that God of the city and wasted state

Psalms of Supplication for Healing of Sickness 50

Psalms of Supplication for Healing of Sickness 53 ,” drawn together by God’s supreme deliverance. supreme God’s by drawn together ,” FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION READING FOR FURTHER Read Psalms 6, 31, 41, and 71 and recognize how they are they are how 6, 31, 41, and 71 and recognize Psalms Read their for healing of sickness. Note psalms of supplication the complaint is expanded. Use elements, particularly how and hopes of people the experiences them to put into words are many of illness. There from suffering who are know you we knows for healing among the psalms—God these prayers need them! • The Messianic psalms are a special case within a general pattern. While While pattern. a general case within a special are psalms Messianic The Lord the people of Israel looked back to earlier songs to express their spiritual their spiritual earlier songs to express looked back to of Israel the people also look forward:we’ve their authors, as the psalms themselves experiences, and should can We later generations. be used by hoped they would just seen, that psalms Messianic the can also see from we And this way today. use them looked 102, Psalm of author the like who, those of vision the fulfilled Jesus to worship would “assemble and kingdoms” all “peoples ahead to a day when the - . Psalm 118, which we 118, which we . Psalm NOTE Messianic psalms Messianic !” They did this to show that they believed he was not that they believed !” They did this to show Lord has done this and it is marvelous in our eyes.” Psalm 41, considered 41, considered Psalm has done this and it is marvelous in our eyes.” Psalm 22 makes a more extensive vow of praise than any vow of praise makes a more extensive 22 Psalm Psalms that Jesus and the early community of his followers used to ex used to his followers of community early the and Jesus that Psalms Many interpreters have noticed a strong similarity between the sufferings between similarity noticed a strong have interpreters Many other psalm. It envisions people all over the earth, rich and earth, rich and all over the It envisions people other psalm. the psalmist’s and future, hearing present of account poor, do you think this How together. and rejoicing God’s deliverance envision such was able to so severely, who was suffering psalmist, a glorious outcome?  Lord just below, is also Messianic. Jesus said its description of betrayal by a friend said its description of betrayal by Jesus is also Messianic. just below, him. Judas betrayed was fulfilled when afterwards, Jesus himself quoted another part of Psalm 118 to assertto 118 he that partanother quoted himself Psalm of afterwards,Jesus rejected has become the cornerstone; “The stone the builders was the Messiah: the just someone who was celebrating God’s past deliverances with them, but with past deliverances God’s who was celebrating just someone Shortly as the Messiah. someone who was bringing a new kind of deliverance Jesus traveled to Jerusalem for the festival of Passover one year, the crowds the crowds year, one Passover of for the festival to Jerusalem traveled Jesus is he who comes in 118, saying, “Blessed of Psalm him in the words greeted the name of the supreme deliverer, are known as known are deliverer, supreme When kind of psalm. in session 3, is another good example of this considered he came to earth and gave his life as the Savior and Healer of the world. and Healer he came to earth his life as the Savior and gave God’s his experiences on earth as the Messiah, and to describe his role press his time identified individual psalms). This shows that Jesus identified deeply that This shows his time identified individual psalms). when illness, lingering of aspects the all including suffering, human all with Jesus consciously used the words of Psalm 22 to describe his own sufferings. 22 to describe his own of Psalm used the words consciously Jesus he was forsaken me?” you why have God, my God, out, “My cried When he Jews of how the first line. (This was quoting its 22 by to all of Psalm referring in these times. They’ve wondered whether the writer was given an advance an advance whether the writer was given wondered in these times. They’ve we can say for certain What is that sufferings on the cross. glimpse of Jesus’ described in Psalm 22 and the experience of crucifixion, which was unknown of crucifixion, 22 and the experience which was unknown described in Psalm

Psalms of Supplication for Healing of Sickness 52 SESSION 9

PSALMS OF SUPPLICATION FOR DELIVERANCE FROM ENEMIES

INTRODUCTION Other psalms of supplication ask God to deliver the writer from powerful and malicious enemies. In these psalms the petition or the complaint may be greatly expanded. The psalmists describe both the external dangers that threaten them and their internal feelings of anxiety and fear. These psalms voice the desperate pleas of the hunted for escape from their pursuers and capture the harrowing emotions of people whom others are trying to harm and destroy.

READING AND DISCUSSION Have someone read Psalm 59 out loud. Notice that it’s largely a petition 1 for deliverance that includes a complaint, but that it also has a chorus, repeated twice, that culminates each time in a statement of trust. (The chorus begins, “They return at evening, snarling like dogs” and ends, “You are . . . my God on whom I can rely.”) The traditional heading of Psalm 59 says that David wrote it when Saul, his predecessor as king of Israel, was trying to kill him. But if this tradition is accurate, then the psalm was later adapted to be used as a prayer for Israel’s 55

Psalms of Supplication for Deliverance from Enemies 57 - was a formal accusation in ancient Israel that someone that Israel in ancient accusation formal a was rîb Have you, or has someone you know, ever been involved in Have you, or has someone you know, been to court, have people ever made Even if you haven’t More generally, have you ever been in a hostile situation that situation a hostile been in you ever have More generally, The language of Psalm 35 suggests that its author is the object of a Psalm 35 suggests The language of (A lawsuit. and encourage a person involved in a court case? and encourage a person involved  “false “With our own eyes accusations” against you, insisting, we have seen it”? How can people who’ve been falsely accused defend themselves? If God acted to “vindicate” them, what would this look like? Have someone read Psalm 35 out loud for the group. Notice that it Notice 35 out loud for the group. Psalm someone read Have  relative? the other party a formerly close friend or a lawsuit? Was in the opponent’sWhat was at risk if the suit was decided favor? How did things turn out What fears and anxieties did this create? experience God’s you know, in the end? Did you, or the person proceedings? If so, explain in presence and assurance during the to God like it, help 35, or a petition How could Psalm what way.  from (“flee to escape you just wanted far away”), but you couldn’t? If you prayed or in the workplace.) bullying at school example, (For God heard and and you feel that this situation for help within how. you, tell the group answered hadn’t honored the legal and financial obligations of a covenant, a solemn of a covenant, the legal and financial obligations honored hadn’t person.) The psalm uses legal made with another that they’d agreement, a verdict to deliver asks God places, for example, when it language in several “ruth by The psalmist is being accused me”). (“vindicate favor in the writer’s and so needy” and is “poor but accusations,” faces “false and less witnesses” the To add insult to injury, back alone. to fight the resources have doesn’t to the psalmist, who known well apparently people bringing the lawsuit are has actually helped them in the past. with only enemies, from of a petition for deliverance consists almost entirely troubles the of description A end. the at and middle the in praise of vows brief into the extended petition. causing is worked these enemies are 3 - ” in ord L

Have you ever been deceived and betrayed by someone you If you’ve been in a country or region that was being attacked been in a country or region that was being If you’ve How does the writer work through to a place of trust and work through to a place of trust How does the writer The primary image in this psalm is a portrayal of the enemies in this psalm is a portrayal of the The primary image The specific situation behind Psalm 55 is harder to identify, because this identify, to Psalm 55 is harder The specific situation behind inner anguish in the face of an enemy’s psalm focuses on the writer’s thought you could trust as a friend and fellow believer? Without thought you could trust as a friend and fellow believer? Without naming any names, share with the group what this experience was like. Did you find that you could “cast your cares on the this situation? 

what this was like. Pray together for nations and groups that are together for nations and groups what this was like. Pray being attacked in this way. confidence by the end of this psalm? Where does the psalmist find end of this psalm? Where does the confidence by the will help? assurance that God  you know has been, describe by an army or militia, or if someone as a pack of ravenous wild dogs. Have you ever been threatened wild dogs. Have you ever been as a pack of ravenous why a dog or a pack of dogs? If so, explain or attacked by a use this image to describe enemies. songwriter would   the psalmist’s internal distress, but that it also offers some strong statements but that it also offers some strong internal distress, the psalmist’s of trust. can get away with deception and betrayal. Have someone read Psalm 55 for Psalm someone read Have can get away with deception and betrayal. and note that it is largely a complaint, primarily a description of the group be a person of faith, is being deceitful and going back on promises. This is This is and going back on promises. be a person of faith, is being deceitful social disintegration in the city, of spreading happening against a background they like the former friend to believe which is perhaps encouraging people 2 claims to is clear that a former friend, who and attacks. It insults, threats, attacked Israel to try to get plunder, even though it hadn’t violated any agree violated any it hadn’t though even to try to get plunder, attacked Israel all the people. God on behalf of king is petitioning ments. The deliverance from enemy armies, which it refers to as “the nations.” The likely The likely nations.” to as “the it refers which armies, enemy from deliverance coalition when a hostile the psalm is an occasion the final form of setting for

Psalms of Supplication for Deliverance from Enemies 56 P salms of S upplication for D eliverance from E nemies  Pray together as a group for justice to be done and the truth to SESSION 10 be known in formal accusations and legal proceedings that you’re aware of and concerned about.

FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION PSALMS OF SUPPLICATION THAT CALL FOR • Psalms 7, 9–10, 12, and 143 are other psalms of supplication for deliverance from enemies. (Like Psalm 42–43, Psalm 9–10 THE DESTRUCTION OF THE WICKED was originally a single psalm that was later separated into two parts.) Read through these psalms, and notice how each one is shaped overall by its petition for deliverance. Use them to Imprecatory Psalms help you reach a place of trust in God as you face enemies yourself and as you seek to help others who are being deceived, betrayed, or attacked. INTRODUCTION Sometimes psalmists who are troubled by wicked enemies become concerned not only for their own survival but for the Lord’s reputation as a God who upholds justice. If treacherous people succeed and prosper, others may question whether God is good and powerful enough to maintain justice—to vindicate the righteous and thwart the wicked. These others may then choose the way of the wicked themselves, and the entire society will become violent and corrupt. So a psalm of supplication for deliverance from enemies may include a call for God to destroy the wicked. This is known as animpreca - tion. The psalmist isn’t asking for revenge, but for God to demonstrate his justice. In an imprecatory psalm, this call expands and becomes the major element of the composition. We’ve already encountered briefer imprecations in a number of other psalms. For example, Psalm 17 tells God, “May what you have stored up for the wicked fill their bellies; may their children gorge themselves on it, and may there be leftovers for their little ones.” Psalm 139, a psalm of trust, includes this imprecation: “If only you, God, would slay the wicked! . . . Do I not hate those who hate you, Lord?” As these examples show, the language of an imprecation can be very severe, and raise troubling questions 58 59

Psalms of Supplication That Call for the Destruction of the Wicked (Imprecatory Psalms) 61 - - (that is, payback: retributive justice retributive to destroy his wicked enemy. This includes This his wicked enemy. to destroy injustice examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love Does retributive justice demonstrate that God is a just God, Does retributive justice demonstrate who are working to help Do you know any followers of Jesus Say whether you agree or disagree with the following statement Say whether you agree or disagree Have someone read Psalm 11 for the group. This psalm says that “the This psalm says that 11 for the group. Psalm read someone Have Lord Psalm 109 includes many of the common elements of a psalm of sup of a psalm elements common of the many 109 includes Psalm but the of praise), (cryvow petition, plication complaint, for help, the families of prison inmates, the survivors of criminals or gang the families of prison inmates, the members who’ve met violent deaths, etc.? so, tell the group what If they’re doing.  and why: “The relationships. web of world is a tightly-woven affects other people as well, Everything that affects one person ask God to judge So we can’t particularly those closest to them. that this will affect their and punish wrongdoers without expecting families too.”  to people who suffer even though it might seem to be unfair are punished? because their wicked family members  Once again the reason for asking God to destroy the wicked is to vindi to wicked is the destroy to God for asking the reason again Once 3 This kind of “his soul hates them.”) (Literally he hates with a passion.” injustice in the sense of the legal process being subverted (“appoint someone someone (“appoint being subverted of the legal process injustice in the sense in court) of not caring for and injustice in the sense evil to oppose my enemy” his fatherless children”). no one . . . take pity on (“may the poor and needy of an expression this will actually be But this enemy “hounded Because a tooth for a tooth”). and for an eye eye “an and made their the brokenhearted,” to death the poor and the needy and survivors to do the same to him. asks God destitute, the psalmist 2 imprecation. lengthy a includes and the psalm of most up makes petition loud. this psalm out someone read Have needy, at the right hand of the that he “stands cate his justice, to demonstrate psalmist this But who would condemn them.” those from their lives to save to use asks God ironically READING AND DISCUSSION READING AND

Instead of a vow of praise, Psalm 58 ends by anticipating 58 ends by anticipating Instead of a vow of praise, Psalm This psalm suggests that these rulers have become intractably This psalm suggests that these rulers Psalm 58 is a psalm of supplication for deliverance from enemies, unjust enemies, from deliverance for supplication of a psalm 58 is Psalm of a consists almost entirely the people. It oppressing rulers who are actually bathing in blood) that you feel are appropriate and justified in their circumstances? depicts the righteous garishly celebrating their own deliverance depicts the righteous garishly celebrating the blood of the wicked.” Do you feel their feet in by “dipping God’s justice in some that a celebration like this could honor from history or cases? If so, can you give some examples literature of similar celebrations (that may or may not involve from power, even if this meant they would be violently overthrown even if this from power, and killed?  they are avenged.” It how the righteous will rejoice “when  evil: they’relike a cobra that has “stopped its ears” and “will not was If you knew that a leader who heed the tune of the charmer.” was never going to change, brutally oppressing a society or nation that God would remove them would you be comfortable praying

The psalmist wants to see these oppressive punished so that people will rulers to see these oppressive The psalmist wants judges who God a is there surely rewarded; are still righteous the “Surely say, 58 for the group. Psalm someone read Have the earth.” complaint and a petition for deliverance, in the form of an imprecation. The The imprecation. in the form of an for deliverance, complaint and a petition of the world. moral government God’s is to vindicate goal of the imprecation 1 as murder?) As we consider the imprecatory consider As we see in this session and psalms as murder?) to understand what work of language, we’ll examples of this kind extended Word. in God’s have place they for followers of Jesus today. (Should children be punished for their parents’ parents’ for their punished be children (Should today. Jesus of for followers as bad that this was hate other people, shouldn’t we say Jesus sins? Didn’t

Psalms of Supplication That Call for the Destruction of the Wicked (Imprecatory Psalms) 60

Psalms of Supplication That Call for the Destruction of the Wicked (Imprecatory Psalms) 63 - Psalm 83. This is a prayer for national deliverance from from deliverance national for is a prayer 83. This Psalm them God to defeat asks armies. The psalmist enemy invading alone you “that and know name” they will seek your that “so might their defeat How all the earth.” over High the Most are this? accomplish enemies] share not let [my 69. This psalmist says, “Do Psalm out of the book of life.” they be blotted May salvation. in your will be ex a place for us to ask that some people ever there Is justice? God’s Could this vindicate presence? God’s cluded from a horrifying celebration 137. This psalm concludes with Psalm The the rocks.” against “dashed infants being of Babylonian they infants when did this to Israelite apparently Babylonians a cry so this is probably retributive for Jerusalem, destroyed is it going too far? justice. But • • • FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER God’s reputation being upheld? reputation God’s not let my heart be drawn prays, “Do 141. The psalmist Psalm does How to what is evil so that I take part in wicked deeds.” to the purpose of imprecations? relate this prayer Psalm 140. Identify the elements of this psalm of supplication. 140. Identify Psalm does the psalmist talk about Where is the imprecation? Where What do you think of the idea that it’s What do you think all right for us to Would you be comfortable with the idea of God “hating” if this Would Have you ever been hurt by someone badly enough that you Have you ever been hurt by someone • Read and discuss these imprecatory psalms: Read • meant not that God detests certain people intrinsically, but rather people intrinsically, meant not that God detests certain and oppression, and by that God is strongly repulsed by injustice people when they practice these things? haven’t been able to forgive yet.) How do you think God wants been able to forgive yet.) How do you think God haven’t is there for place, if any, us to pray when we’re that hurt? What anger in prayer? expressing not-entirely-righteous  rather than justice?  and it took a lot of time and wanted the other person to pay, forgiveness? (Or maybe you prayer for you to get to a place of  people do emotion, for the evil things that feel hatred, as an we keep this things affect others? How can and for how these revenge bitterness or a desire for emotion from becoming violent oppression of others. violent oppression makes them committed to doing everything they can to ruin someone else’s doing everything committed to makes them they can to ruin else’s someone evil from a repulsion as that “hatred” the imprecatory psalms show life. But to end their the wicked in order to destroy someone to ask God can lead righteous hatred is a strong negative feeling towards evil that makes someone someone makes evil that towards feeling negative is a strong hatred righteous that a deep-seated bitterness not it. It’s nothing to do with want to have

Psalms of Supplication That Call for the Destruction of the Wicked (Imprecatory Psalms) 62 SESSION 11

PSALMS OF SUPPLICATION FOR THE FORGIVENESS OF SIN

Penitential Psalms

INTRODUCTION Psalms of supplication are a means to ask for help and ultimately to trust God in times of trouble. But sometimes the primary trouble is the psalmist’s own sin. The writer is guilty of a serious breach of God’s ways that has harmed and defrauded others. While this sin may be considered responsible for further troubles (sickness, triumph of enemies, etc.), these are second- ary issues. What the psalmist wants and needs most is deliverance from the weight of guilt and shame and the restoration of God’s customary favor and presence. In pursuit of these things, the writer confesses the sin and pleads for forgiveness. These acts can color every element of a psalm of supplication so that it becomes what’s known as a penitential psalm. (Penitence means sorrowing over sin and taking responsibility for it.) In this case, it’s not the expansion of one element, but the way one theme pervades every element, that creates a distinct kind of psalm.

Psalms of Supplication for the Forgiveness of Sin (Penitential Psalms) 67 The psalmist then turns to address those who’ve come for the come who’ve those to address then turns psalmist The the lessons of them to learn meal and encourages celebration this experience. and worship. a call to join in praise there’s Finally, It is appropriate to declare publicly how blessed it is to be It is appropriate to declare publicly If you’re guilty, and you know it, take encouragement from and you know guilty, If you’re  and been forgiven yourself forgiven. Based on times when you’ve also on these psalmists’ descriptions of guilt and forgiveness, what words would you use to describe what it feels like to be Again etc.) “free,” example, “light,”forgiven? (For “refreshed,”  God and experience the these psalms to confess your sins to need don’t You this discreetly. blessedness of forgiveness. But do to everyone in your group or to reveal all the details of your sin perhaps with one or two church. Speak privately to God, and may need to set You close friends or a trusted spiritual advisor. but you can do even these the record straight or make restitution, lot of unnecessary details. (Note things publicly without exposing a 51 after wrote Psalm that while there’s a tradition that David psalms themselves give no details about these committing adultery, to go off by yourself or with the authors’ actual sins.) If you need use these can that’s fine. You one or two friends to pray right now, group into words. Your psalms to help put your own experience you back to this meeting, will support you in prayer and welcome all of your time now for or to its next one, if you need to use restitution. confession, and prayer, • • lead to a morbid, paralyzing psalms shouldn’t the penitential Reading aware of their own sin. “I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before before always sin is and my transgressions, my “I know sin. own of their aware hand was heavy on and night your “Day 51 says. of Psalm the writer me,” it. and they know guilty, They’re 32. of Psalm says the author me,” introspection whereby we repeatedly search every crevice of our lives for any every of our lives search crevice repeatedly we whereby introspection are only too identified. These psalmists yet not have might scrap of sin we READING AND DISCUSSION READING

The description of troubles is a depiction of the physical strain The description of troubles of guilt. recollection of the cry a characteristic for help. There’s God for his deliverance. The psalmist praises The opening is a summary the psalmist has blessedly of how forgiveness. received

has forgiven and to encourage others to confess their own sins. others to confess their own and to encourage has forgiven counting on an animal isn’t also makes clear that the writer It but rather on a renewed acceptance, win sacrifice itself to as the sacrifices that are heart” and a “contrite spirit” “broken truly to God. acceptable from some other trouble. from should why God as a reason of a claim of innocence Instead of guilt. an extended admission there’s help, for forgiveness. The petition is directly God how to proclaim a promise of praise includes vow The The opening cry is for mercy and forgiveness, not for rescue The opening cry not for and forgiveness, is for mercy

Penitential psalms like this one describe the physical, Penitential pervadeevery into it transform and thanksgiving of psalm a of element Psalm 32 shows that the themes of confession and forgiveness can also that the themes of confession and forgiveness 32 shows Psalm Psalm 51 is a fully formed psalm of supplication whose every of supplication a fully formed psalm 51 is element is Psalm it for the group, someone read Have theme of penitence. the by colored • • • • symptoms like these? Without revealing the specifics of your symptoms like these? Without you were able to make situation, describe how you felt until things right.  of guilt, including sorrow, emotional, and spiritual symptoms sleeplessness, and a sense depression, fatigue, physical aches, to make needed you’ve of distance from God. At times when people, have you experienced something right with God or other • • • • a penitential psalm. Have someone read this psalm for the group, and once this psalm for the group, someone read a penitential psalm. Have again note its elements: 2 1 its elements: and note

Psalms of Supplication for the Forgiveness of Sin (Penitential Psalms) 66

Psalms of Supplication for the Forgiveness of Sin (Penitential Psalms) 69 - forgiveness, including the request, “Do not remember the sins the remember not “Do request, the including forgiveness, look back now you If ways.” and my rebellious of my youth did in the immaturity you things that regret life and your over your express this psalm to help use of youth, or impetuousness for forgiveness. prayer own 90, on like Psalm 85 is a penitential psalm spoken, Psalm it begins as a thanks 40, Like Psalm behalf of the community. this psalm the basis a supplication. Make giving and becomes part of. that you’re for a community prayer own of your psalm, written in 79 is another community penitential Psalm this psalm and Read to the destruction of Jerusalem. response confession it interweaves complaint, imprecation, note how about the destruction of learn more You’ll of sin, and petition. 19. to it in session and see further responses Jerusalem • •

FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER Psalm 25 is an individual penitential psalm. It begins with a penitential psalm. It 25 is an individual Psalm statement of trust from and includes a petition for deliverance for enemies, but its main theme is confession of sin and prayer

If you were granted a respite from some of the more pressing If you were granted a respite from Identify the places in Psalms 39 and 90 where the writers ask Identify the places in Psalms Psalm 51 appeals only to God’s “unfailing love” and “great compassion” compassion” “great and love” “unfailing only to God’s 51 appeals Psalm such as psalms, penitential other But should forgive. he why reasons as • this way now? Pray together as a group that God would do these together as a group that God would this way now? Pray of your members. needed things in the lives of each  way would you like to use the troubles of life, in what meaningful What would God need to time and energy this would give you? of your time and energy do for you so that you could use more  you like God lives are. Would God to show them how short their to do this for you? Why or why not? The effect of sin here isn’t crushing guilt or shame; it’s a wasted life. These it’s crushing guilt or shame; isn’t here The effect of sin particular words. particular without revealing unnecessary details, explain why you’d use these use these you’d explain why details, unnecessary revealing without and admitting that we’re not properly valuing our brief days on earth our brief valuing is a not properly and admitting that we’re for to live resolving that comes from form of confession; the reorientation what is truly meaningful is genuine repentance. psalmists aren’t overwhelmed by the weight of conscience, but rather struck of conscience, but rather the weight by overwhelmed psalmists aren’t or meaning. Recognizing joy life is passing without any real quickly how by wisely and well. (In session 8, we saw a similar argument in Psalm 102.) Have 102.) Have saw a similar argument in Psalm we session 8, (In wisely and well. 90 aloud for the group. Psalms 39 and read people different for their sins, life would hardly be worth living. So the psalmists plead for the psalmists be worth living. So would hardly for their sins, life they can live of life so brevity of the them aware to keep and ask God mercy, 3 already and it’s life passes so quickly, 39 and 90, cite another reason: Psalms people God kept punishing that if and trouble, sorrow filled with so much

Psalms of Supplication for the Forgiveness of Sin (Penitential Psalms) 68 SESSION 12

PSALMS OF PRAISE THAT CELEBRATE GOD’S REIGN and SONGS OF ZION

Divine Enthronement Psalms

INTRODUCTION Just as particular elements of a psalm of supplication can be expanded to create compositions of a distinct character (psalms of trust, imprecatory psalms, etc.), so new forms can result when the elements of a psalm of praise are expanded. In session 6 we considered Psalms 148 and 150 and saw that the call to worship can be expanded so that it makes up most or all of a psalm. The same thing can happen with thereason to worship. We’ve seen in earlier sessions that God’s power and goodness can be questioned in a psalm of supplication, vindicated in a psalm of thanksgiving, and celebrated in a psalm of praise. Some praise psalms celebrate the way God is enthroned as King above all the earth, so that from that position of authority he can exercise his power on behalf of justice and show his goodness to the needy. The theme of God’s enthronement can characterize a whole psalm of praise, and the description of it as a reason to worship can expand to fill an entire psalm. Songs like these are known as divine enthronement psalms. They embody the characteristic stance of psalms of praise: God is on the throne of heaven and all’s right with the world, or all will be made right as God’s reign is extended.

Psalms of Praise That Celebrate God’s Reign (Divine Enthronement Psalms) 73

- place ’s au ’s Lord of God’s rule. Psalms like rule. Psalms of God’s fact . (Note: Matthew Ward was . (Note: Matthew Ward . Have someone read Psalm 48 for Psalm someone read . Have Mansion Builder songs of Zion songs In your culture, what locations are associated with power and In your culture, what locations are by listening to the If you wish, conclude your time together Describe a way in which you believe you’ve seen God establish seen God establish you believe you’ve a way in which Describe One variation on the divine enthronement psalm celebrates the psalm celebrates the enthronement on the divine variation One rule as a means of assertingthe of God’s  of 93 by The Second Chapter 1970s classic rock version of Psalm Acts, from their album Offer your 19 years old when he wrote and recorded this song. encouragement to any teenagers in your community who are trying to write their own songs.) This psalm has the same themes as Psalms 47 and 93. It celebrates God’s God’s It celebrates 47 and 93. Psalms same themes as This psalm has the  authority? If they’re defining natural locations, what are their features? If they were built by people, why were they situated where of speech to describe they are? Use these locations as figures God’s reign over the world.  history or in either in to human society, restore stability justice and personal experience. your own these psalms are known as known these psalms are call formal any without worship to reasons gives too, that it, Note group. the to worship. he has turned him as a victorious warrior (in this case, depicting kingship by ships) and as a righteous the sea, scattering the invading back an attack from capital, royal God’s of description a on largely rests depiction this But judge. is said to be “like Zion Mount King.” of the Great as the “city Jerusalem, mountain at the far north the mythic of the world the heights of Zaphon,” NIV note.) The (See Canaanite deities supposedly lived. where symbolic location, something this superlative thority is said to extend from and to last the ends of the earth” “to Pole, at the North Everest like Mount and ever.” ever “for 3 Jerusalemroyal as a place of divine of the city of this offer lyrical descriptions on, and so Zion, after the mountain it stands call this city abode. They often - - amid the sounding amid the sounding Lord READING AND DISCUSSION READING , stand firm.”

Lord

What symbolism or imagery would you use to depict the What images would communicate to your culture that God is communicate to your culture that What images would 47 is traditionally read at celebrations of Rosh Psalm Have someone read Psalm 93. Note that the reason for praise, the decla that the reason Note 93. Psalm read someone Have psalm. entire makes up this enthronement, ration of God’s Have someone read Psalm 47 for the group. Notice that it’s a two-part it’s that Notice group. 47 for the Psalm someone read Have a reason by followed each one to worship, with two calls psalm of praise  forces of chaos in the world? How would you envision God defeating them?

God’s power is described as “mightier than the thunder of the great than the thunder of the great is described as “mightier power God’s God’s rule over the year ahead. What would it be like for you to God’s rule over the year ahead. What an academic 47 at the beginning of a calendar year or use Psalm or at the start of an important on a significant anniversary, year, to God’s authority? enterprise to submit the days ahead  of the world? the supreme ruler  as a way of acknowledging Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, Both parts of this psalm depict God as the supreme King. In this time King. In Both parts as the supreme God of this psalm depict

praised for his just laws, which create stability within human society: “Your stability within human society: “Your praised for his just laws, which create statutes, also be a declaration that God has defeated this enemy and created stability: has defeated this enemy and created also be a declaration that God God is end of the psalm At the secure.” “The world is established, firm and waters.” This is at least imagery describing God’s power as greater than one than greater as power imagery least at is This God’s describing waters.” in Hebrew But hear. would ever in this culture of the loudest sounds anyone chaos, so this may a symbol of primordial thought the waters of the sea were 2 of trumpets.” enthronement, alluding to the celebrations at a coronation ceremony: “God “God ceremony: at a coronation to the celebrations alluding enthronement, the amid shouts of joy, throne] has ascended [to the kings would lead armies in battle, so God is described as a victorious war victorious a as described is God so battle, in armies lead would kings actual God’s describes The psalm also nations under us”). rior (“he subdued 1 “for.” by introduced to worship

Psalms of Praise That Celebrate God’s Reign (Divine Enthronement Psalms) 72 P salms of raise T hat C elebrate G od FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION SESSION 13 Read and discuss the following divine enthronement psalms and songs of Zion: • Psalm 29 describes God as “enthroned over the flood . . . as King forever.” By conquering the watery chaos, God has demonstrated his victorious power. His might is also symbolized by the loud sounds of thunder and breaking waves. (The song PSALMS OF PRAISE THAT CELEBRATE GOD’S “The Earth Is Yours” by the group Gungor is based on Psalm 29.) CARE FOR CREATION • Psalm 76 depicts God as a victorious warrior to describe how

’ s R eign (D ivine E nthronement P salms ) he is the supreme ruler who is “feared by the kings of the earth” and who “saves all the afflicted of the land.” This psalm includes a four-part reference to the place of God’s rule. • Psalm 87 is a song of Zion that inspired John Newton’s hymn “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken.” The psalm describes people who belong to God as those who were “born in Zion.” INTRODUCTION Newton drew on this image to describe followers of Jesus as Psalms of praise may celebrate one particular aspect of God’s power or “members of Zion’s city.” What does this idea mean to you? goodness, in an extended reason-to-worship section. In this session we’ll look • Psalm 68 insists that Mount Zion is more glorious than the at psalms that describe the way God shows his goodness by caring for the “majestic” and “rugged” Mount Bashan because Zion is “the created world. mountain where God chooses to reign.” This psalm uses a theophany to depict God as a victorious warrior. It then describes a worship procession to the temple in Jerusalem. READING AND DISCUSSION Psalm 104 is a psalm of praise that begins much like a divine enthrone- 1 ment psalm. It describes how the Lord is “clothed with splendor and majesty” and how he has “set the earth on its foundations” so that “it can never be moved.” Like Psalm 93, this psalm also celebrates God’s victory over the watery forces of chaos. But it offers a more extended depiction of how God (in his original acts of creation or at the end of the great flood) drew the dry land out from the waters. In the ancient view of the universe, the sky (“the heavens”) was a solid dome above the earth and sea, and there were waters above the sky itself, so God could live in “upper chambers” supported on beams above these waters.

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Psalms of Praise that Celebrate God’s Care for Creation 77 - - , our Lord, how majestic how , our Lord, Lord If God has “ordained” to “provide the people with grain,” If God has “ordained” to “provide Find out who in the group has a garden, and what they grow out who in the group has a garden, and what Find Psalm 65 begins more like a psalm of thanksgiving than a psalm of than a psalm a psalm of thanksgiving like begins more 65 Psalm meal being held in being paid and a celebration depicts a vow praise. It Psalm 8 is a psalm of praise that begins and ends not with a call to wor with ends not begins and that of praise a psalm 8 is Psalm of worship: “ ship but with an expression  in a similar enterprise such in it. Who has worked on a farm or you ever seen a etc.? Have dairy, mushroom cellar, as a winery, to “clothe” the garden or farm? that seemed “bumper crop”  today? What can followers why are so many people still hungry their own communities and of Jesus do to overcome hunger in around the world? with clean water in their own communities? Have you been to see been to see you Have communities? own in their clean water with of do to support one your group work? What could any of their these organizations? surveys starting and stars and with the moon in the heavens all of creation, and birds, to human beings, and finally to animals, down angels, then moving should entrust God it is that people, remarkable how exclaims It sea creatures. role of so insignificant in the grand scheme of things, with the vital who are mean that people have the earth.role doesn’t This assigned over being “rulers” and its caretakers they are Rather, the right to exploit or pillage the creation. watery forces of chaos (“the roaring of the seas”). But the psalm then turns to But of the seas”). roaring watery of chaos (“the forces 104 it describes how Like Psalm of creation. care for his ongoing praise God earthwaters the brings forthso that it God harvest. abundant an psalm The clothed with flocks image of the landscape being concludes with a beautiful the closing note of praise provide valleys themselves and and grain. The hills 65 for the group. Psalm someone read Have and sing.” for joy as they “shout 3 the psalm to worship, as a reason between, name in all the earth!”is your In 2 sins and res the people’s has forgiven God how recounts the temple, and it the victory over God’s by symbolized which is threat, some cued them from As Psalm 104 illustrates, a supply of good water is vital for 104 illustrates, As Psalm Even though God has “set a boundary” that the waters Psalm 104 represents God not just as the original Creator of 104 represents God not just as the original Creator Psalm  people spend In many parts of the world, life and flourishing. What much of their time and labor simply going to get water. organizations do you know that are working to provide people to ask God a question out loud that they have about destruction to ask God a question out loud that that’sgo around again and been caused by raging waters. Then God for something good give each person the chance to thank possible. that dependable waters have made “cannot cross,” floods, hurricane storm surges, and tsunamis still “cannot cross,” floods, hurricane storm to a regular pattern of tides, take place. But these are exceptions rainfall that, as the psalm and roughly predictable river flow, through agriculture and says, permits human culture to flourish give each person a chance navigation. Go around the room and natural life. This isn’t something that can be demonstrated something that can be demonstrated natural life. This isn’t by faith that God is doing this, how But if you believe scientifically. to the natural world yourself? does this shape the way you relate   and continually sustains the world, but as someone who actively Have someone read Psalm 104 out loud. Notice that it begins and ends 104 out loud. Notice Psalm someone read Have The main message of Psalm 104 is that from this exalted position, God position, this exalted is that from 104 Psalm of main message The to worship. to worship. with brief calls to worship, but consists almost entirely of an extended reason an extended reason of almost entirely but consists with brief calls to worship, “frolicking” in the ocean, etc. There is a circle of life in which some creatures life in which some creatures of is a circle There in the ocean, etc. “frolicking” watering God of is picture overall newthe but and place, die their take ones of the ground.” the earth the “face and continually renewing look to God for their food. It depicts creatures thriving in their own proper proper thriving in their own creatures depicts food. It for their look to God aquatic life trees, in juniper on high mountains, storks habitats: wild goats channels so that they provide drink for the thirsty and irrigate the land so it irrigate the land for the thirsty and drink so that they provide channels things— how all living brings forth meditation on psalm offers a The crops. human beings— of the sea, and creatures of the sky, the field, birds beasts of sends down rain and ensures that the waters on earth remain in their proper proper their in earthon waters the that remain ensures and rain down sends

Psalms of Praise that Celebrate God’s Care for Creation 76 P salms of raise that C elebrate G od stewards, on God’s behalf. One very important way that God wants to care SESSION 14 for his own creation is through people. Have someone read Psalm 8.  Give everyone the chance to share the top three ways they’ve been able to care for creation in their current life situation. Can “going green” be a way of expressing faith in God and accepting a responsibility to be the kind of “ruler” that God intended? PSALMS OF PRAISE THAT CELEBRATE GOD’S COMPASSION ’ s C are for reation

INTRODUCTION Another aspect of God’s goodness that biblical psalms of praise celebrate is the compassion he shows to those in need. This may be described in an extended reason-to-worship section that makes up most of a psalm.

READING AND DISCUSSION Psalm 113 is an elegantly balanced psalm of praise. It begins and ends 1 with the call Hallelu Yah. In between, it has three stanzas of three lines each. The first stanza is a call to worship, a summons for people to praise God’s name all through time and space. The second stanza, just like a divine enthronement psalm, cites God’s exaltation “over all the nations” and “above the heavens” as a reason for worship. The third stanza, as a further reason for worship, celebrates how God has compassion on the poor and needy. Have three different people read the three stanzas of this psalm, with the whole group reading “Praise the Lord” together at the beginning and end.  This psalm says the poor and needy are in the “dust”— homeless, living and sleeping on the ground. They stay near the

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Psalms of Praise that Celebrate God’s Compassion 81 - - . A couple of psalms you’ve al you’ve . A couple of psalms acrostic Psalm 145 describes God as gracious, compassionate, 145 describes God as gracious, compassionate, Psalm Psalm 145 is a special kind of composition. It has 22 lines that begin has 22 lines of composition. It is a special kind 145 Psalm This order. in consecutive alphabet of the Hebrew with the 22 letters compassion for others in need. Pray for one another, that you will for one another, compassion for others in need. Pray each receive this supply. There’s often a significant statement or transition in the middle of an a significant statement or transition often There’s  does each of these terms mean? and faithful. What trustworthy, and illustrate them. If God’s As a group, work together to define and his reign is total and character is perfect and complete, qualities is never flawed or limitless, then God’s exercise of these the goodness that generates partial, and he will never run out of fatigue.” Describe for yourself, them. God never gets “compassion and for the group if it’s the situation in appropriate to do so, of God’s pure, unending which you most need a fresh supply doing for them? Who corresponds to these people today? What What today? people to these corresponds Who for them? doing team should report to help them? Each of Jesus do can followers whole group. back to the its conclusions more of them in later sessions. The alphabetic pattern may be used as an aid alphabetic pattern may be used as an of them in later sessions. The more speaking comprehensively and also to depict a composition as to memory, as total and comprehensive, reign it helps portray God’s about a subject. Here all of space and time. through 113 describes it extending just as Psalm Its first part Psalm 145. that divides it into two parts.acrostic This is true of being praised; his compassion is mentioned briefly as one describes God times three the center of the psalm, the writer speaks for praise. In reason kingdom. This is a thematic statement that constitutes a transi about God’s character is described compassionate tion. Then, in the second part,God’s detail. in more 3 as an is known kind of composition encounter you’ll and also acrostics, are 9–10 and 25, Psalms considered, ready ’s reign identifies reign ’s Lord Lord ’s reign ’s Lord Reasons not to trust in human beings Reasons to hope in the Reasons

Statement of the Statement Statement of praise Statement

Hallelu Yah Hallelu

Hallelu Yah Hallelu Divide your group into teams of two or three people and assign Divide your group into teams of two This psalm depicts God’s acts of compassion as a vital God’s acts of compassion as a This psalm depicts Have someone read Psalm 146. Notice that it’s a chiasm: that it’s 146. Notice Psalm someone read Have hungry, prisoners, the blind, those who are bowed down, the prisoners, the blind, those who are bowed down, the hungry, Have each team the fatherless, the widow. righteous, the foreigner, imagine what life was like in biblical times for these people. Why God 146 describe did they need God’s help? What does Psalm  the 146 to a team: the oppressed, each of these terms in Psalm

expression and extension of his reign. Do you associate the works of his reign. Do you associate expression and extension the coming followers of Jesus do today with of compassion that why not? reign or kingdom of God? Why or visited, any communities that have grown up around garbage that have grown up around visited, any communities you know that are group about any organizations the dumps? Tell and poverty. people move out of homelessness effectively helping  cooking fires. There they can at least stay warm, and perhaps and perhaps at least stay warm, fires. There they can cooking envisions God or sell. The psalm charcoal to use find some them to places of and raising and housing them, clothing, feeding, know anyone Do you the community. and leadership in influence or have you homeless? Do you know of, who is, or has been, “ash heap,” the garbage dump where ashes are tossed from tossed ashes are where dump garbage heap,” the “ash this compassion as an expression of his divine rule. this compassion as an expression The bulk of this psalm is an extended reason-to-worship section that praises reason-to-worship The bulk of this psalm is an extended for and then at length as the compassionate provider Creator, first as the God of the all those in need. The concluding declaration 2

Psalms of Praise that Celebrate God’s Compassion 80 SESSION 15

PSALMS OF PRAISE THAT CELEBRATE GOD’S JUSTICE

INTRODUCTION In this session we’ll look at psalms that celebrate the way God uses his exalted position of authority to ensure justice throughout the world. The theme of God as a righteous judge was one part of the portrayal of his kingly power and goodness in the divine enthronement psalms we looked at in session 12, but it’s the main focus of the ones we’ll consider here.

READING AND DISCUSSION Psalm 99 begins by declaring the fact of God’s enthronement and de- 1 scribing how he has used his kingly power to establish justice on earth generally. Then it explains that God specifically used “the statutes and the decrees” that he gave to Moses and Aaron in the law, which prophets like Samuel upheld, to create justice within Israel. This is a song with two stanzas, followed by a repeated chorus. Each stanza first speaks about God, then to God. The chorus is a call to worship that follows these reasons to worship. Read the psalm like this: • Have one person read the first part of each stanza, which speaks about God. 83

Psalms of Praise That Celebrate God’s Justice 85 - - ” to Lord ,” which is based on the chorus of ord L is the supreme God. It also calls on those who “love the who “love calls on those also It God. is the supreme What false “gods” are “worshipped” where you live? That are “worshipped” where you live? What false “gods” If you wish, conclude your time together by singing Cindy If you are a follower of Jesus, how have you joined in God’s of Jesus, how have you joined If you are a follower In the ancient world kings were also the supreme judges in their lands. judges in their also the supreme were the ancient world kings In assembly; he in the great presides “God 82 proclaims, when Psalm So take on their parts and try to justify themselves, while others can take on their parts and try to justify form a tribunal that judges them on behalf of God, using the 82. standards described in Psalm  Rethmeier’s song “Exalt the  of granting authentic is, what things are believed to be capable power, wealth, education, beauty, example, life to people? (For the formal religion, the family, entertainment, sports, technology, assembly”nation, etc.) Convene a “great and pass judgment on to deliver true justice in the spheres for their failure these “gods” can have some group members where they’re worshipped. You  of the way justice on earth, as an expression work of establishing god? serve the true God rather than a false you worship and Lord 3 way of describing God’s this is another judgment among the ‘gods,’” renders God gathering together pictures all. This psalm as King over enthronement up not for them rebuking and nations other the of “gods” so-called the all “know they worshipped. Because they’re holding justice in the lands where the foundations of the earth are maintaining justice, “all and aren’t nothing” as no more dismissing all these “gods” God this psalm pictures So shaken.” call by The psalmist then concludes mortals.” or divine than “mere powerful rulerrightful the actually he is since “all of the earth,” “judge to God on ing 82 for the group. Psalm someone read Have the nations.” have no power, and they don’t uphold justice. In fact, the psalm calls on on calls psalm the fact, In justice. uphold don’t they and power, no have that claims and acknowledge their to surrender as they may be, them, such the of their worship as the truepractice righteousness and expression “hate evil” to the just rulerand devotion of the world. our Lord

Lord Lord (addressed to people) (addressed (addressed to creation) (addressed Lord Lord our God, you answered them”). answered you our God, Call not to worship any other “gods” Lord Reason to worship the Reason to worship the Reason

stanza, which is addressed to God (starting God to “The King is is addressed stanza, which and “ mighty” the choruses the everyone (“Exalt together read Have he is holy”). mountain; at his footstool/holy and worship God Have the others respond by reading the next part the of each reading by respond the others Have Call to worship the Call to worship the Psalm 99 uses three different terms to describe what God’s rule 99 uses three different terms Psalm Have someone read Psalm 97. Notice that it’s a chiasm: that it’s 97. Notice Psalm someone read Have

To illustrate God’s nature as ruler of the world, what examples can illustrate God’s nature as ruler of the world, what examples can To exemplified one of these terms you give of different people who’ve on particular occasions? deciding between the competing interests of contending parties in the competing interests of contending deciding between a way that’s them. “Equity” fair to each of a person who describes principles, no matter who always applies the same straightforward they’re someone dealing with. “Righteousness” is the quality of of their inner character. who does the right thing as an expression  between While there’s considerable overlap brings about on earth. often refers to a particular focus. “Justice” them, each one has • • is God’s “judgments” themselves: “He guards the lives of his faithful ones and the lives guards “He themselves: “judgments” is God’s the psalm says that between, In the hand of the wicked.” them from delivers “gods” These to shame.” “put all who worship any other so-called gods are of his kingly power: “Clouds and thick darkness surround him; righteousness surround “Clouds and thick darkness of his kingly power: reason to worship The second the foundation of his throne.” and justice are The first reason to worship depicts God’s power in a theophany, using the using in a theophany, power God’s reason to worship depicts The first to the exercise justice is tied directly God’s imagery of a thunderstorm. Here 2 Many interpreters believe that this psalm was sung responsively like this in like sung responsively that this psalm was believe interpreters Many the temple.

Psalms of Praise That Celebrate God’s Justice 84 P salms of raise T hat C elebrate G od Psalm 99, or by listening to or watching the version of this song by SESSION 16 the group Six Steps.

FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION • Psalm 75, like Psalm 82, describes God as the supreme ruler WISDOM PSALMS whose justice holds the world together: “When the earth and all its people quake, it is I who hold its pillars firm.” Read this psalm and notice its elements, images, and themes. What is its

’ s J ustice primary message? • Read Psalm 67. Note how it combines the justice emphasis of the psalms you considered in this session with the harvest emphasis you saw in Psalm 65 (session 13) as complementary expressions of God’s rule. INTRODUCTION Many psalms make a practical application of the truth about God’s justice. They teach their listeners about the two very different fates that await the wicked and the righteous, and they urge them to cultivate wisdom, the ability to choose the right path in life, by fearing the Lord. Some of these wisdom psalms look quite different from the types we’ve considered so far. They’re spoken to other people, rather than to God, and they’re essentially teaching rather than supplication, thanksgiving, or praise. But other wisdom psalms present their teaching within the framework of one of the basic types. In this session we’ll first consider a teaching-type wisdom psalm, to appreciate its distinctive form and message. Then we’ll consider three psalms that are based on the supplication, thanksgiving, and praise forms, but which have been transformed to become vehicles for wisdom. Finally, we’ll look at another teaching-type wisdom psalm.

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Wisdom Psalms 89 . - - Lord does not see” to get see” does not is good; blessed is the Lord Lord that has been transformed to be .” psalm of thanksgiving Lord Can you remember a time when you discovered that there are Can you remember a time when you Psalm 34 is a Psalm with way, begins in the standard for wisdom teaching. It come a vehicle The singer then actually poses a question. We can picture the children the children We can picture poses a question. then actually The singer In wisdom teaching, the term “fool” doesn’t refer to someone who lacks to someone who refer doesn’t term “fool” the teaching, wisdom In  choices people make in consequences for the reckless or heedless revealing unnecessary details, share with the group life? Without or observed, if you can. something of what you experienced eagerly raising their hands in response: “Who here wants to have a great life, “Who a great wants to have their hands in response: eagerly raising here the it?” (“I do! I do!”) Then if that’s and see good things happen all through The evil and do good.” from need to “turn case, the psalmist continues, you righteous the towards favor psalm instructively of the God’s contrasts rest judgment of the wicked. with God’s it says God will “repay” the wicked for what they have done. the wicked for what they have will “repay” it says God didn’t as if God who lives to anyone it refers Rather, intelligence or education. reck earth.on injustice about anything do fool The couldn’t God as if or exist Psalm 94 is, of no consequences. The basic message fearing lessly does wrong, will be consequences. there 3 includes that experience summarya and worship to call a psalmist’s the of of the cry to share The psalm invites the listeners a recollection for help. and see that the in a celebratory meal: “Taste the gathering of family and friends then But in him.” one who takes refuge this deliverance an occasion for the psalmist to teach the lessons of provides me; I will teach you listen to children, to the next generation: “Come, my the fear of the oppressing the weak. It includes a petition (“Who a petition includes me against up for will rise It weak. the oppressing in the confidence of trust, and a statement the wicked?”) expressing psalm also addresses the But to God. addressed elements are All of these those who think “the urging all human listeners, wisdom wise?” Like other become when will you fools, “You wisdom: greater the and blesses punishes the wicked but protects God how psalms, it explains 94 ends an artful basic supplication form, Psalm twist on the righteous. In Instead, the psalmist has made. but not of a vow of payment, with a promise - ? ord that has been transformed to be L psalm of supplication READING AND DISCUSSION READING

from the wicked? in their relationship with the (What will God do for them?)

After the teams report back, give each person a chance to After the teams report back, give Divide your group into three teams and have each team go Divide your group into three teams • things does this psalm encourage people to do What specific • does the psalm make to the righteous? What promises • this psalm, how do the righteous live differently According to come a vehicle for wisdom teaching. It begins characteristically with for wisdom teaching. It come a vehicle Psalm 94 is a Psalm Have someone read Psalm 37 for the group. As you listen, notice how how listen, notice As you the group. 37 for Psalm read someone Have far. so encountered you’ve of psalms the other types from different it’s  share one way in which they’velive or to relate been challenged to to God differently in order to follow the path of wisdom, or one thing they’re hoping to experience if they do.  and investigate one of these questions and 37 back through Psalm report its findings to the group: Psalm 37 is an acrostic. In this case, every second line begins with the In 37 is an acrostic. Psalm One basic message runs all the way through Psalm 37: the wicked may basic message runs Psalm One way through all the

a cry for help, followed by a complaint about how the wicked are violently the wicked are a complaint about how by a cry followed for help, 2 it also signifies here how wisdom provides a comprehensive understanding understanding a comprehensive wisdom provides how it also signifies here of life. next letter of the Hebrew alphabet, so the psalm has 44 lines in all. The alphabet, so the Hebrew next letter of the and noted in session 14, is likely an aid to memory, alphabetic pattern, as we world, which is captured within the Bible in books like Proverbs and in in books like Proverbs Bible within the world, which is captured psalms like this one. them! Instead, patiently persevere in doing what’s right, and you’ll be blessed be blessed right, and you’ll in doing what’s patiently persevere them! Instead, wisdom teaching of the ancient long term. This is the essence of the the over succeed and prosper for a time, but they will inevitably be destroyed by their their by destroyed a time, but they will inevitably be for succeed and prosper be tempted to imitate them, and don’t be afraid of don’t wickedness. So own 1 teaching.) emphasizes to people and spoken (It’s

Wisdom Psalms 88

Wisdom Psalms 91

- (NIV are like are mashal the beasts that per are like are FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER Read Psalms 36, 73, 92, and 111, and note their wisdom Psalms Read half-line, like Psalm by is an acrostic 111 themes. (Psalm do each of these psalms most Which of the basic forms 112.) Which of their (supplication, thanksgiving, praise)? resemble considered of the other psalms you reminiscent statements are Who would you like to inherit your money when you die? What Who would you like to inherit your How much money do you need to live a good life? How much How much money do you need to •  What would you like to do is enough, and how much is too much? spend all have to if you didn’t with some of your time and energy of it working for money?  make sure they receive it? Is measures have you taken to try to certain way still alive the only giving your money away while you’re to know where it’s going to go? Psalm 49 begins with an opening appeal for its listeners to pay attention pay to listeners its for appeal opening an with begins 49 Psalm “proverb”), literally a comparison, which is drawn explicitly in the middle a comparison, which is drawn explicitly literally “proverb”), they do not endure; their wealth, despite (“People, but lack understanding wealth who have and at the end (“People ish”) wisdom as a whole is designed, in classic The psalm the beasts that perish”). style, to startle for listeners out of their uncritical admiration complacent in the end, no they are, a vivid comparison, describing how the rich through immortal than the beasts. more lose all of their ill-gotten gains. But instead of saying that God will destroy destroy will God that saying of instead But gains. ill-gotten of their all lose psalm offers the this arrives, for their judgment when the “day” the wicked complementary observation when their riches with them no one can take that so the truethey die. And the upright, whom as one of is to live way of wisdom himself” . . . to “take and of the dead” realm the . . . from will “redeem God forever. a will be presenting The psalm says it of wisdom.” to its “words - lessings come B . ord L lways fear the that has been transformed to become a that has been transformed A , enthroned in the heavens, whose reign of justice whose reign in the heavens, , enthroned Lord psalm of praise

See if you can memorize Psalm 112 and recite it for your group See if you can memorize Psalm See if, as a group, you can compose an acrostic wisdom as a group, you can compose an acrostic wisdom See if, What lessons of experience would you most like to pass on to like to pass on would you most of experience What lessons Psalm 49 is another teaching-type wisdom psalm. It develops the same develops teaching-type wisdom psalm. It 49 is another Psalm and become rich, if the wicked prosper 37: even basic theme as Psalm Psalm 112 is a Psalm of the basic form, only a hint retains It for wisdom teaching. vehicle that way.” And so forth.) that way.”  at its next meeting.  alphabet at the start of brief psalm using the letters of your own with the wicked, as in Psalms statements that contrast the righteous “ example, 37 and 112. (For Psalm 112 is also an acrostic, but in this case, its half-lines begin with 112 is also an acrostic, Psalm of these wisdom psalms that help you summarize these lessons? that help you summarize these of these wisdom psalms  in any family members? Are there statements younger friends and Psalm 34 is another acrostic, with each of its 22 poetic lines beginning lines beginning 22 poetic of its with each acrostic, 34 is another Psalm 5 destined to because they’re envy them, them and don’t afraid of be don’t (Hebrew poetry suggests simplicity This veryis (Hebrew expression.) its in compact psalm. this to memorize intended for children that the writer may have the consecutive letters of the alphabet, so that the psalm as a whole has only letters of the alphabet, so that the psalm as a whole has only the consecutive each. built out of 22 brief phrases, mostly of 3 or 4 words 11 lines. They’re Psalm 37, but with a greater emphasis on the long-term prosperity of the emphasis on the long-term prosperity 37, but with a greater Psalm the futility of wickedness. righteous and only a closing note about about the contrast between the fates of the righteous and the wicked without the fates of the righteous and the between about the contrast the specifying that it’s overall message as presents the same in these fates. This psalm is reflected beginning with a brief call to worship. The teaching it presents is then like The teaching it presents call to worship. beginning with a brief it speaks justice. However, celebrating God’s to worship, an extended reason 4 position is a favorite of wisdom teachers; it’s also used at the end of Proverbs. also used teachers; it’s of wisdom a favorite position is with the letters of the Hebrew alphabet in consecutive order. This type of com This order. in consecutive alphabet of the Hebrew with the letters

Wisdom Psalms 90 W isdom P salms in this session? SESSION 17 • Psalm 14 is a wisdom psalm that most often uses the name Yahweh (“the Lord”) to speak about God. Psalm 53 is a later adaptation of it, almost identical in wording, that instead uses the name Elohim (“God”) throughout. It’s not entirely clear why this second version was created. Consider the psalm in either version and note how it provides a classic definition and description of the “fool” who lives without regard for God. PSALMS OF THE LAW

To find more about biblical wisdom literature, see the study guide to Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and James in the Understanding the Books of the Bible series.

INTRODUCTION Some wisdom psalms describe the principles and commandments found in the law of Moses as a vital source of training and enlightenment for anyone who wants to become wise. Psalm 37 says, “The mouths of the righteous utter wisdom, and their tongues speak what is just. The law of their God is in their hearts; their feet do not slip.” Psalm 94 says similarly, “Blessed is the one you discipline, Lord, the one you teach from your law.” Certain psalms focus more directly on the benefits of carefully studying and reflecting on God’s principles and commandments. These are known aspsalms of the law.

READING AND DISCUSSION Have someone read Psalm 1 for the group. This psalm describes delight- 1 ing in and meditating on the law of the Lord as the safeguard against a futile and precarious life. Like other wisdom psalms, it contrasts the steady productivity and lasting achievements of the righteous with the inevitable destruction of the wicked.

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Psalms of the Law 95 times, so any apparent contradictions have to be resolved in times, so any apparent contradictions favor of science. has its proper sphere and information about God. Each one that the other is best neither should try to answer questions qualified to address. omniscient perspective, so any observations people make omniscient perspective, so any observations be wrong. that seem to contradict Scripture must possible in biblical more accurate observations than were Science and Scripture are complementary sources of Science and Scripture are complementary The Bible is a description of the world from God’s The Bible is a description of the world techniques permit much Contemporary scientific tools and Which of the following benefits listed in this psalm have you psalm have you listed in this the following benefits Which of statements best expresses your Which of the following c. • soul refreshment of the • wisdom for the simple • joy to the heart • light to the eyes • warning • great reward a. b. Psalm 119 is a heartfeltthe for understanding of extended prayer and Psalm psalmist his ways so the to “teach” asks God repeatedly It Scriptures.  world and the relationship between the natural understanding of sources of truth about God? the Scriptures as  your Scripture? Tell engagement with from your own experienced group how. center section of Psalm 19, each poetic line uses one of a variety of synonyms variety 19, each poetic line uses one of a center section of Psalm decrees, precepts, ways, statutes, law, as God’s the Scriptures: about speak to row in which eight lines in a etc. This psalm is an acrostic commands, word, alphabet, so it has 8 x 22 or 176 lines begin with each letter of the Hebrew intended as an aid to in all. The alphabetic pattern is once again probably described 176 different of the Scriptures hearing the value (Simply memory. 3 As in the and danger. threats from can find the right path in life and escape what they heard remember on its meaning and implications. This is what on its meaning and implications. reflect

In this culture most people weren’t literate, and copies of the literate, and copies In this culture most people weren’t For followers of Jesus today, the completed Bible represents followers of Jesus today, For Psalm 1 describes an incautious person getting inexorably person getting an incautious 1 describes Psalm Have someone read Psalm 19 for the group. This psalm describes two 19 for the group. Psalm someone read Have portraysfirst It Scripture. and nature God: about knowledge of sources

remembering and reflecting. What are some good ways to do this remembering and reflecting. in situations and also worse off, today? How are people better off, copies of the Bible are where almost everyone can read and widely available? Scriptures weren’t widely available. In order to build God’s Word Word widely available. In order to build God’s Scriptures weren’t to into their lives, people would have or in a conversation with a from it in the temple or synagogue, and teacher, Scriptures: 1 means when it speaks of “meditating” on the Psalm this (or did when they were alive)? Describe their attitude and they were alive)? Describe their attitude this (or did when engaged it. Bible and how they engage or feelings towards the  would keep a person from going down that path in the first place. from going down that path in would keep a person  it look like did for this psalmist. What does what the law of Moses who does Scriptures? Do you know someone in the to “delight” drawn in by the wicked: first walking along with them, then walking along by the wicked: first drawn in right down in and finally settling to stand with them, stopping the first steps down of how taking Give an illustration their midst. the under into serious wrongdoing path can escalate an unwise biblical principles that Then cite some company. influence of bad  thoughts that are pleasing to God. thoughts that are of synonyms and recounting its benefits. The psalm concludes with a petition of synonyms and recounting and for words and with a prayer and restraint for discernment, forgiveness, 2 the glory but eloquently proclaims of its world wordlessly the created how a variety it by describing Word, describes the virtues then of God’s It Maker.

Psalms of the Law 94 P salms of the L aw ways would make a lasting impression. Think how deeply the message would SESSION 18 be impressed on anyone who memorized this psalm!) Read through Psalm 119 together as a group. This should take less than ten minutes. Take turns reading an eight-line section each. (In The Books of the Bible, these sections are marked off by a little extra white space. Many other editions use the names or symbols of the Hebrew letters to mark them off, for example, “ℵ Aleph” or just “Aleph.”) When it’s your turn to read, speak the words as a prayer, and use them to express your own heartfelt desire SALVATION HISTORY PSALMS to understand the Scriptures better and benefit from their teaching. As you’re reading and listening, notice the different ways in which the Scriptures are described. Also notice what words and phrases are repeated throughout the psalm. If a particular statement speaks to you, make a note of it.  What repeated words and phrases did you notice in Psalm 119? How do they help emphasize its overall meaning? What particular statements in the psalm spoke to you personally? Why? INTRODUCTION We noted in the previous session that while most people were not literate  Why does the psalmist ask so often for God to actively in ancient Israel and copies of the Scriptures were rare, people could still learn “teach” his law? Isn’t it enough just to read the Bible and learn about the Scriptures in the temple or synagogue and also find out about them from it that way? from teachers. One more way ancient Israelites could hear the story told in the Scriptures was through certain of the psalms. Some longer psalms recount  What songs or hymns do you know that describe the value of the story of Israel’s relationship with God down through the centuries. They’re understanding and following God’s Word? (For example, Isaac known as salvation history psalms. Watts’ hymn “The Heavens Declare Thy Glory, Lord,” based on This name describes their content, not their form. What salvation history Psalm 19; Amy Grant’s song “Thy Word is a Lamp Unto My Feet,” psalms all have in common is the way they tell Israel’s story at some length. based on a line from Psalm 119; or even the children’s song “The But in form, they may be psalms of praise, wisdom psalms, psalms of sup- B-I-B-L-E.”) Sing one of these songs together if you wish. plication, or penitential psalms, as we’ll see in this session.

READING AND DISCUSSION Psalm 105 is a psalm of praise that begins with a call to worship and 1 ends with another brief call to worship (Hallelu Yah). In between, in an extended reason to worship, God is acknowledged as the one whose “judgments are in all the earth.” In this case God is not as much being celebrated as the righteous judge of the world, as he was in the psalms of praise we

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Salvation History Psalms 99 ” should be recounted ” should be recounted Lord Like Psalm 105, Psalm 78 looks back to the Exodus, 105, Psalm Like Psalm Looking back over your own life, do you feel that you’ve ever do you feel that you’ve back over your own life, Looking Which of the things that What should you have remembered? time in the story of God when Jesus’ death and resurrection are time in the story of God when Jesus’ can the cross and the empty now the foundational event. How tomb give you confidence that you can depend on God? What songs do you know that, like salvation history psalms, call you back to these events?  the things he’d trusting God because you forgot turned back from God frustrated . . . upset done for you? Do you think this made . . . angry . . . furious?  in history and the Scriptures, God has done in your own life, and his power and goodness? give you the greatest confidence in remember these things and What can you do to ensure that you challenges, rather than forget so trust God when you face difficult them and question or disobey God?  from slavery in Egypt, as a God’s deliverance of the Israelites all later believers confidence foundational event that should give (In session 2, we saw this that God can deliver them as well. of Jesus live at a later 77.) Followers process at work in Psalm The message of this psalm for its original audience is that everyone for its original audience of this psalm The message in from generation to generation, so that people will “put their trust in God” their trustGod” in “put will so that people generation, generation to from his deeds.” forget and “not explains, God chose David from the tribe of Judah to lead Israel, rather than rather lead Israel, to of Judah the tribe from David chose God explains, read someone Have Ephraim. of tribe located centrally powerful, large, the 78. Psalm and accept should understand particularly the tribe of Ephraim, in Israel, house royal wish for a different and not for choosing David reasons God’s places and The wider implications, for all their own. a tribe such as from of the deeds that the “praiseworthy times, are mashal on your wonderful deeds”). This wonderful on your deeds”). meditate

How well would you say you know the “big How well would you say you know story” of God? Psalm 78 is a wisdom psalm, much like Psalm 49. It begins by calling begins by 49. It 78 is a wisdom psalm, much like Psalm Psalm a going to present says it’s on people to hear its teaching, and it

further at www.Biblica.com/LivingtheScript.) relates? See if, as a group, you can identify where these episodes as a group, relates? See if, other in the big story that come and how they relate to each your own place within the unfolds in the Bible.) Do you recognize this help you see significance unfolding story of God? How does can explore these topics and direction in your own life? (You  to know this story better? (As you What are some good ways to get did you recognize the various episodes it 105, listened to Psalm In its opening, this psalm calls on its listeners to “meditate on” (NIV on” its listeners to “meditate this psalm calls on its opening, In God, and when God “heard them, he was furious.” This is why, the psalm This is why, them, he was furious.” “heard and when God God, cases, the psalm says, what the people should have remembered was how God God was how remembered cases, the psalm says, what the people should have they questioned and disobeyed slavery from Instead, in Egypt. Israel delivered redeemed them from the oppressor,” and the armies of the tribe of Ephraim, and the armies of the tribe of Ephraim, the oppressor,” them from redeemed because back” “turned trustto and also failed some later point at who God both In them.” had shown he wonders the done, had he what “forgot they (NIV “parable”), a comparison. In this case the comparison is between the is between this case the comparison a comparison. In (NIV “parable”), the day he power, [God’s] not remember the wilderness, who “did in Israelites 2 big story of God’s dealings with humanity as it is to do this with individual dealings with humanity as it is big story of God’s passages of Scripture. the way of your precepts, that I may precepts, the way of your 1. The implication in Psalm for “meditate” of the word is also a synonym verb the on reflect and retell, as importantto know, just valuable and it’s is that “tell of”) God’s wonderful acts. This is the same verb that’s used five times in used five of”) wonderfulverb that’s acts. This is the same “tell God’s (for example, “Cause me to understand to the Scriptures 119 in regard Psalm Specifically, this psalm recounts salvation history to acknowledge God for the history recounts salvation this psalm to acknowledge Specifically, Abraham and his descendants. to promises his covenant way he fulfilled considered in session 15. Rather, he’s being honored as the Lord of history, history, of the Lord as being honored he’s Rather, session 15. in considered affairs of the nations. the plan through out his redemptive works who steadily

Salvation History Psalms 98 S alvation H istory P salms FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION SESSION 19 Read and discuss these other salvation history psalms, which illustrate the variety of forms the retelling of Israel’s story can take. • Psalm 136 is a praise psalm that cites God’s works in creation and in salvation history as reasons for worship. It has a call- and-response form, with a worship leader singing out what God has done and the people affirming each point by chanting THE BOOK OF LAMENTATIONS together, “His love endures forever.” • Psalm 89 starts as a psalm of praise. It’s mostly devoted to celebrating a particular quality of the divine character, the faithfulness that God promised to David and his descendants. But towards the end it abruptly turns into a psalm of supplication, complaining that God has “renounced the covenant” he made with David and “defiled his crown in the dust.” It’s referring to the conquest of Judah and the destruction of INTRODUCTION temple by the Babylonians, which we’ll consider in more detail As we saw last time, the Exodus, the deliverance from slavery in Egypt, in the next session. was the foundational event of salvation history that gave ancient Israelites • Psalm 106 is a penitential psalm that asks God to forgive the confidence in God’s goodness and power. Many centuries later, another event many sins of the community and bring the people back from occurred that shattered this confidence. When the Babylonians destroyed exile in Babylon (“gather us from the nations”). It retells the Jerusalem in 587 BC, the people were devastated. Their royal, religious, civic, story of Israel up to the time of the destruction of Jerusalem and military leaders and institutions were all swept away. They had been and the exile. In each phase of the story, the emphasis is not warned repeatedly by prophets such as Jeremiah that this would happen if so much on the wonders that God did, but rather on how the they didn’t practice justice and compassion as God’s laws required, but they people continually disobeyed him. This extended confession ignored these warnings and suffered the horrible consequences. (“we have sinned, even as our ancestors did; we have done It was a tremendous challenge to come to terms with this devastating wrong and acted wickedly”) is offered in the hopes of receiving event. Several of the psalms you’ve already considered represent attempts forgiveness and restoration. What would a penitential psalm to do this. These include psalms of supplication, petitioning for mercy and look like that was written on behalf of your own nation, restoration, such as Psalms 80 and 74 (sessions 1 and 2). They also include recounting its historic sins? penitential psalms, composed on behalf of the community, acknowledging its sins and the justice of God’s judgment, but also asking for mercy. These include Psalms 79 and 106 (sessions 11 and 18). But the primary response in the Bible to the destruction of Jerusalem is in the book of Lamentations. As its title indicates, this is a collection of sorrowful, meditative songs that mourn this great tragedy. They are essentially

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The Book of Lamentations 103 required. ord L brought on me in the on brought Lord DISCUSSION Throughout the book the conviction is expressed that Throughout the book the conviction What is your response to hearing the book of Lamentations to hearing the book of Lamentations What is your response largely destroyed by war or Have you ever seen a city that was that Lamentations details: massive destruction, murder, rape, details: massive destruction, murder, that Lamentations starvation, even cannibalism. Because God abandoned the people to these things, would you say he is partly responsible for them? Why or why not? Is it consistent with divine justice for a whole city to suffer in these ways?  more often? is rarely done; should it be done read out loud? (This did this reading raise? What Why or why not?) What questions insights did it give you?  what brought you there and natural disaster? If so, tell the group extent that you can. How well something of your experience, to the of being in a captures the experience do you feel Lamentations had an experience like this personally, ruined city? If you haven’t to your mind? Why? what situation did the book most bring  practice the justice it didn’t Jerusalem was destroyed because with the and compassion its covenant relationship God no longer defended it Because the city became so corrupted, or caused all the atrocities from its enemies, and they committed Also notice the various elements you’re familiar with from psalms of psalms familiar with from you’re elements the various Also notice devastation by saying “I” and “my.” (For example, “Is any suffering like suffering any “Is example, (For “my.” “I” and saying by devastation the on me, that that was inflicted my suffering anger?”) fierce day of his enemies, against imprecations confessions of sin, as they occur: supplication complaints (laments) that and especially statements of trust, help, cries for ruin. the city’s over grieve , there’s , there’s The Books of the Bible The Books of the READING three parts of the line do. By contrast, in the fifth song, while contrast, in the fifth song, By parts of the line do. three form, the lines still 22 lines suggesting the acrostic are there alphabetic pattern. any follow don’t The first, second, and third songs all have three-part lines; three-part songs all have and third The first, second, the fourth song has two-part and the fifth song has lines; one-part lines. the first, second, and fourth songs, each full line begins with In song, all the third letter of the alphabet. In the appropriate As you listen, notice how the city of Jerusalem often breaks in and often breaks the city of Jerusalem listen, notice how As you Have different people read the five songs in the book of Lamentations. songs in read the five people different Have The overall impression, as the songs shorten their form loosens, is and impression, overall The • • However, there is variation within the acrostic pattern in Lamentations: within the acrostic variation is there However, There are five songs in the book of Lamentations. (Tradition associates associates (Tradition Lamentations. of book the in songs five are There speaks for herself, sometimes in extended passages, describing her speaks for herself, These songs describe the horrors of warfare and its aftermath, so choose of warfare These songs describe the horrors out loud some difficult material. willing to read people who are This should take about 10 to 15 minutes. In This should take about 10 to 15 minutes. edition, using a different you’re each song. (If some extra white space between with the individual songs.) chapters correspond find that the traditional you’ll immensity of this tragedy. of the singer’s art and voice being lost and giving way to silence before the art being lost and giving way to silence before and voice of the singer’s you’ve seen already in several of the psalms. In this case, the acrostic form may this case, the acrostic In of the psalms. in several seen already you’ve so powerful are these songs seek to convey because the emotions be employed to be expressed. order in tight structure that they need an especially them with the prophet Jeremiah, but we don’t know for certain who wrote know don’t but we Jeremiah, them with the prophet pattern the alphabetical of these songs is the acrostic, them.) The basic form against the wicked, their primaryagainst the grief of expression is an extended element and sorrow. psalms of supplication. While they contain many elements you’re already already you’re elements many they contain While of supplication. psalms and imprecations for mercy, of sin, petition such as confession familiar with

The Book of Lamentations 102 T he B ook of L amentations  There are some hopeful passages in Lamentations, but they’re SESSION 20 in the middle. The book as a whole doesn’t build up to a hopeful ending. Instead, it ends with a description of horrors and the question of whether God has “utterly rejected” Jerusalem because he is “angry . . . beyond measure.” Why do you think this book of the Bible doesn’t offer a more hopeful conclusion? PSALMS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS:  As we’ve noted, Jesus’ death and resurrection are now the foundational events of salvation history that give his followers CORONATION confidence in God’s goodness and power. Have there been any events for followers of Jesus that are like the destruction of Jerusalem, which pose a great challenge to continuing belief in God’s goodness and power?

INTRODUCTION FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION Some of the psalms were composed for special occasions. They reflect • Look again at Psalm 79. How are its emphases similar to, and happier times in the life of the nation, before Jerusalem was destroyed and different from, those in the book of Lamentations? after the people returned from exile. These include coronation psalms, writ- • Read Psalm 74 once again. What more do you learn about the ten to ask God’s blessings on a newly crowned king. destruction of Jerusalem from this psalm? On what basis does the psalmist appeal to God to defend the people? • In session 1 you read Psalm 80 as an illustration of the way READING AND DISCUSSION psalms are songs. Reread this psalm now and see what more Before the destruction of Jerusalem, kings in the line of David ruled you understand, in light of the book of Lamentations, about from that city for several centuries. Psalm 72 is a prayer for a king who the situation it was written to address. 1 is just taking the throne. It asks God to give him a long reign over a broad territory; to let the people enjoy prosperity, peace, and justice throughout his days; and to make him a blessing to the nations all around. Have someone read Psalm 72 for the group.  Have you ever seen a coronation (the crowning of a king or queen), either in person or on television? If so, tell the group what this was like.

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Psalms for Special Occasions: Coronation 107 ’s Lord the how says to my lord [the king] says to my lord Lord As noted, this psalm can appropriately be spoken by anyone spoken by anyone appropriately be this psalm can As noted, It begins with a declaration 101 is like a psalm of praise. Psalm repeated pledges to Almost all of this psalm consists of .”) The oracle then brings the message from God in poetic lines set to The oracle then brings the message from .”) As we saw in session 12, another important responsibility of ancient of ancient saw in session 12, another importantAs we responsibility leading armies against enemies by kings was to defend their countries (A more common formula in the prophetic writings is, “Thus says the “Thus says is, writings prophetic the in formula common more (A of worship in place of a call to worship, as many praise psalms of a call to worship, as many praise of worship in place of vows then serves as a description do. The series of in this case, not with “harpspeaker will worship: and lyre” but with a “blameless acts of In what ways are honesty and integrity life.” worship?  and not to associate with associate with people of good character Is this the major factor that determines people of bad character. will “leadwhether a person himself or herself a blameless life”? a or court a prophet musician. It’s 110 is spoken to the king by Psalm  (This is why you way of the righteous. to choose the who wants the other are some of Who asked to read it together.) were all leaders, whom culture, besides political people in your influential publicly you take it like this? Would to see take a pledge like you’d of influence? in your own sphere  While this psalm was probably composed at a time when the nation was nation the when time a at composed probably was psalm this While 3 will fight for him, king that God Israel’s 110 promises into battle. Psalm ultimately and soldiers, willing young, strong, many he has that sure making divine power. his own enemies by defeating the nation’s first announces that oracle, an unusual form within the psalms. It prophetic behalf: “The spoken on God’s being it’s Lord 110 for the group. Psalm someone read music. Have king’s a of occasion the on necessarily not and armies, enemy by threatened the king of the reminding that occasion by it does recall coronation, . . .” . .

What oath or pledge does a new leader of your country take? Do you pray regularly for your country’s leader? As a group, This is a psalm of supplication that consists entirely of an supplication that consists entirely This is a psalm of What hopes and expectations did you have the last time your the last time your did you have and expectations What hopes in Israel who was choosing the way of the righteous rather than the than rather righteous the of way the choosing was who Israel in Psalm 101 is a series of vows that could have been composed by anyone anyone been composed by that could have 101 is a series of vows Psalm they similar to, and different from, Psalm 101? they similar to, and different from, Psalm  on the Internet, in an almanac, etc. How are the exact words Find

righteous, taking turns reading the lines and rewording them as righteous, taking turns reading the “Endow the president with your justice, example, appropriate. (For righteousness.”) O God, the chief executive with your of this king’s reign?  of your country will be use this psalm to pray that the leader  reason why except for three lines that offer a extended petition, the weak these requests: the king will rescue God should grant these lines and and oppression. Find and needy from violence to the success out loud. Why will this be the key read them again country got a new president, prime minister, or other ruler that you or other prime minister, a new president, country got this new leader ways were you hoping in? In what really believed in and justice, both prosperity, bring greater peace, would help the world? country and around your own  king of Israel would recite as a public pledge. Read Psalm 101 out loud in Psalm as a public pledge. Read would recite king of Israel unison (all together). a great “house” with many servants who must be honest and trustworthy. servants many with honest and trustworthy. be must who “house” great a that a new of office” this psalm as a kind of “oath regard interpreters Many way of the wicked. However, the psalm gives several indications that it was indications several the psalm gives way of the wicked. However, The speaker has a king at the beginning of his reign. meant to be spoken by for and is responsible the wicked in the land” the authority to punish “all 2

Psalms for Special Occasions: Coronation 106

Psalms for Special Occasions: Coronation 109 The Books of , in which different actors read actors , in which different in advance of your next meeting. next your of advance in You can find these names (“she,” “he,” “he,” can find these names (“she,” You * . by Zondervan is available through Christian through Zondervan is available by The Bible Experience Bible The The Books of the Bible the of Books The FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING NEXT YOUR FOR The Books of the Bible The Books of the NIV Audio Bible NIV Audio because one important goal of that edition is to distinguish the text itself In the next session you’ll read through the Song of Songs, a short biblical of Songs, Song the through read you’ll the next session In Alternatively, you can listen to a professional recording of the Song of of the Song recording can listen to a professional you Alternatively, the introduction members may also wish to read group background, For Everyone should at least mark the parts spoken by the “friends.” Decide Decide parts the the “friends.” should at least mark by spoken Everyone While the biblical text doesn’t indicate specifically who’s speaking at which who’s indicate specifically While the biblical text doesn’t book. Different people will be taking the parts of different characters: a bride, a characters: parts the be taking will people different of book. Different having by for this reading Prepare wedding. the friends at their and a groom, the margins of in the names of these characters in members pencil group your their copies of speakers to the text (NIV, ESV, NLT, etc.). These are not included in etc.). These are NLT, ESV, speakers to the text (NIV, the Bible to make it possible to read explanatory material. However, from and interpretive can temporarily add these names in you as a group, of Songs the Song through together out of another edition of the Bible can also choose to read pencil. (You use different that people don’t has the names in it, but make sure that already them in the parts between they assign slight discrepancies are translations, as there speakers.) to various who will be taking the parts of the bride and groom and have them mark mark them the partswho will be taking and have of the bride and groom preferably an actress, choose an actor and these roles those parts For as well. comfortable the parts speaking are a married couple, who of these characters will be and whose marriage and its consummation whose physical attributes imagery. described in evocative The Songs. online for a free may also search You and many online outlets. bookstores in these recordings in audio format. However, of Songs copy of the Song may want to you that reason, For the same speaker. by read all the parts are listen to the book using and online, including at the in bookstores available the separate parts. It’s Store. iTunes in Songs of Song the to * grammatical indications of gender and from inferred points, this can be reasonably add the names of the of the Bible versions Many number in the original Hebrew. “friends”) in standard editions of the NIV, including at biblegateway.com. including at biblegateway.com. editions of the NIV, standard in “friends”) - FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER his head.”) a series of petitions for the king, like 20 begins with Psalm been used at so it may also have 72, and those in Psalm coronations. “son” (just as Psalm 72 called him the “royal son”). This is son”). 72 called him the “royal (just as Psalm “son” used it to and his early followers psalm. Jesus another Messianic with God. describe his special relationship help in battle, the king of God’s 21 similarly reassures Psalm gold on of pure a crown “placed (God his coronation. recalling Psalm 2 offers reassurance at a time when the nation is threat 2 offers Psalm himself installed God how recalls enemy armies. It ened by God’s refers to the king as This psalm the king on the throne. Is your country’s also the commander of its political leader • • Read and discuss these other psalms that depict the coronation of a king the coronation and discuss these other psalms that depict Read • country does go to war, how does this need to be justified? country does go to war,  leader relate to those forces? armed forces? If not, how does this authority to go to war and What constraints are there on the they are at war? When your on what these forces can do when (Psalm 110 is also a Messianic psalm that the book of Hebrews in the of Hebrews psalm that the book 110 is also a Messianic (Psalm in Israel. those who believe in him.) those who believe righteous king defending his countryrighteous king defending enemy aggression. against of God before is a representative Jesus how uses to describe Testament New people before God, but not that they offered sacrifices—this was reserved was sacrifices—this offered but not that they God, people before a the psalm envisions actual priests. So Israel’s of Aaron, for the descendants honorary title that the Jebusite kings of Jerusalem formerly held. When the When held. formerly Jerusalem of kings honoraryJebusite the that title along with assumed the title, kings their own that city, conquered Israelites of the representatives they were meaning that of “priest,” role the symbolic coronation oath to him: “You are a priest forever, in the order of Melchizedek.” of Melchizedek.” order in the forever, a priest are him: “You oath to coronation an It was probably of righteousness.” means “king “Melchizedek” The name

Psalms for Special Occasions: Coronation 108 SESSION 21

PSALMS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS: MARRIAGE and THE SONG OF SONGS

The Song of Songs

INTRODUCTION Weddings were another joyful special occasion that songs were written for in ancient Israel. One of the psalms, Psalm 45, was composed for a royal wedding between the king and a foreign princess. Another book of the Bible, the Song of Songs, is a collection of similar compositions that were traditionally sung at weddings in the land.

READING AND DISCUSSION Have someone read Psalm 45 for the group. Note that the writer, 1 probably a court musician, briefly praises the special character of this composition, addresses the king for eight lines, and then turns to address the “royal bride” for the final eight lines. Like the psalms we considered in the last session, this one recalls the king’s coronation and stresses his role in protecting the nation against its enemies and upholding justice within the land. (In this role he represents God, so the psalm actually addresses him as “God” at one point.) But on the occasion of this wedding, the singer also describes the splendor of the setting: the aroma of fragrant spices, the beautiful appointments of the palace, the 111

Psalms for Special Occasions: Marriage 113 - The Song of Songs is a book of the Bible that contains a collection of a collection that contains Bible of the is a book Songs of Song The them a heading that attributes has It ancient Israel. from songs wedding These songs have now been collected and arranged in such a way that collected and arranged in such a been now These songs have 8 to about take will This group. a as of Songs Song the through Read of may not understand everything, listen, you since the Song As you slept but my heart was awake.” The book refers to the women of the city, par of the city, refers to the women The book slept but my heart was awake.” of Jerusalem.” friends of marriageable age, as “daughters ticularly the bride’s is This to men, particularly men, it literally says “sons.” young When it refers they both belong to the bride as his “sister”: sometimes refers why the groom to the family of Israel. make to Solomon would reflect the custom, common in many cultures, of common in many cultures, the custom, reflect would make to Solomon and “queen.” bride as a “king” and depicting a groom they tell the story of a courtship consummation. The and marriage and its reflect the way may their friends speak in turn. (This and bride, the groom, and their guests sang to them, at sang to one another, that brides and grooms celebrations.) traditional wedding made the necessary have should for this after preparations 10 minutes. (You the session.) Have last meeting, as described at the end of the previous your the parts and have of the bride and the groom, chose read two people you can you Alternatively, the parts the “friends.” everyone spoken by else read of the book. listen to a recording visual imagery uses extensive setting. agrarian an ancient from Songs drawn will be able to understand many of these you with a little reflection, However, like a teeth are tells his bride, “Your example, when the groom images. For the washing. Each has its twin,” from flock of sheep just shorn, coming up missing! The white, and none are her smile: her teeth are complimenting he’s when the bride says, “I sequence, introduced book includes a brief dream 2 Since king of Israel. succeeded him as who son of David the to Solomon, been the have he may indeed written many songs, to have is known Solomon like the heading could be other hand, this the of these. On original author authorship of understanding traditional a express which psalms, the in ones could have that case, the songs certain about. In be entirely can’t that we they references times, and the of authors at different a variety been written by When the psalm tells the princess to “let When the psalm tells the princess the king be enthralled If you’ve had a wedding of your own, what music did you had a wedding of your own, what music did If you’ve Have you ever seen a royal wedding, either in person or on Have you ever seen a royal wedding, can men and women give the right amount of attention to staying in shape and looking their best, as something that’s genuinely without becoming obsessed with a superficial praiseworthy in itself, cultural ideal of external beauty? with mourning over the family and country she has left behind, but with mourning over the family and joy as she embraces rather to be filled with a radiant, attractive her new homeland and king (“lord”). But throughout the psalm, and the beauty of the wife are the handsomeness of the husband How praised and celebrated alongside their qualities of character. to be, what music do you want to have at your wedding? to be, what music do you want to  reference is to her coming the most immediate by your beauty,” is urging her not to be downcast from a foreign land. The psalmist television? If so, tell the group what it was like and what you television? If so, tell the group what and heard. remember most about what you saw  not married but think you might like choose for it? Why? If you’re  The singer celebrates the new queen’s gorgeous apparel, her attendants, gorgeous apparel, the newThe singer celebrates queen’s and integrity.) The psalm closes with a vision of this queen guiding the next closes with a vision of this queen The psalm and integrity.) house and winning a wide and lasting reputation. generation of the royal third line addressed to her is, “Daughter of Tyre, with a gift the rich will seek with a gift the rich Tyre, of to her is, “Daughter line addressed third speaks of her new This of her need for discretion status and also favor.” your king of his responsibilities, it also speaks a word of admonition to the queen. of admonition to the a word it also speaks king of his responsibilities, countryanother in princess a as life former her behind leave and must She embrace her important this new in court. role likely translation for the (One and the rejoicing that surrounds her. But just as the psalm reminded the just as the psalm reminded But her. that surrounds and the rejoicing is the same one used to describe the “beauty” of the princess). As the singer singer the As princess). the of “beauty” the describe to used one same the is bride, and on the comes to rest surveys his eye surroundings, the king and his into the final section. elegant transition an this provides music of stringed instruments. The psalm describes the king’s royal robes and robes and royal instruments. of stringed music the king’s describes The psalm root the Hebrew “excellent”; of men (NIV the most “handsome” calls him

Psalms for Special Occasions: Marriage 112

Psalms for Special Occasions: Marriage 115 At the end of the book, the friends speak about a “little At the end of the book, the friends At three key points, two of them early in the book, the bride book, the bride them early in the key points, two of At three put in place to make sure they don’t spend too much time spend too much time put in place to make sure they don’t together in situations where they might be tempted to have sex before marriage? (The bride notes in this final song that she was a “wall,” chaste until marriage, and that she’s now physically mature, a delight to her husband.) warning that while it’swarning that while for them to hear these songs so good they’ll human body and the delights appreciate the beauty of the also be careful they should sexual intimacy, of married love and satisfied desire until it can be honorably not to arouse sexual relations is it the biblical standard that sexual in marriage. Why How can followers of should take place only within marriage? for sexuality but also Jesus today develop a healthy appreciation practice self-controlothers with honor and respect? and treat to make sure they don’t What practical steps can people take from the media that get too much information and stimulation surround them?  who young woman in their community, a hypothetical sister,” she’s not yet physically needs to wait to get married because be “spoken for”mature, but who may nevertheless and become “wall” and keep the man out engaged. They hope she will be a But if she would be her. until marriage; if so, they will honor a “door” have to keep the two of and let the man in, they will a dating or engaged couple them apart. What safeguards can mystery and beauty of human sexuality? Or should sexual activity activity sexual Or should sexuality? human beauty of and mystery order for it to be as possible in as realistically be portrayed and appreciated? understood  of Jerusalem, friends and says, “Daughters turns to her unmarried field [symbols gazelles and by the does of the I charge you by the She’s or awaken love until it so desires.” of love]: Do not arouse In many cultures today, particularly Western ones, sexual ones, Western particularly In many cultures today, The beauty of the bride is idealized in these songs. In several The beauty of the bride is idealized Like Psalm 45, the Song of Songs describes fine clothing, fine clothing, 45, the Song of Songs describes Like Psalm In your culture, or in a culture you’re familiar with, are brides in a culture you’re In your culture, or Did you enjoy hearing the Song of Songs read aloud? What read aloud? What Song of Songs enjoy hearing the Did you intended to be pornographic. By contrast, the Song of Songs veils its depictions in symbolic language. Does a more indirect portrayal through evocative imagery preserve something of the pursuit of an unattainable ideal of physical attractiveness? pursuit of an unattainable ideal of  and explicitly in movies, activity is often portrayed graphically books, television programs, etc., even when these aren’t above all other women, and how this wedding day is her day to above all other women, and how this groom are similarly recounted, shine. The attractive features of the among ten thousand.” Is there and he’s described as “outstanding this in the Bible could lead a danger that seeing language like and even dangerous unhealthy, men and women into a costly, to help the poor and live a simple life? to help the poor and live a simple  and she’s described as places her features are listed and praised, “flawless” groom prizes her and “perfect.” This reflects how the wine, delicacies, and music. Does the occasion of a wedding and music. Does the occasion of a wine, delicacies, why not? Does some luxuries like these? Why or justify indulging in Bible mean expressed for these items here in the the appreciation want to enjoy some of them that followers of Jesus can legitimately with accepting a responsibility from time to time? Is this consistent so, how is this done?  celebration with fragrances, and it depicts an opulent and jewelry, parts of the book were your favorites? Did you find any parts you find any parts favorites? Did book were your parts of the ones and why? If so, which uncomfortable?  weddings? If as queens and kings at their and grooms portrayed 

Psalms for Special Occasions: Marriage 114 SESSION 22

PSALMS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS: PILGRIMAGE

Songs of Ascents

INTRODUCTION All the people of Israel were commanded in the law of Moses to gather in Jerusalem three times a year for the great festivals of Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles, which celebrated their history and identity as a nation that God had chosen and blessed. These important and joyful occasions are mentioned in many of the psalms. For example, in Psalm 42–43, the psalmist longingly remembers going to “the house of God . . . with shouts of joy and praise among the festive throng.” Some individual psalms were written specifically for and about the experience of going on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem for these festivals. The book of Psalms also contains a group of short compositions, Psalms 121–134, that are called “songs of ascents.” Most interpreters understand this title to mean that they were customarily sung by festival pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem. (The term “ascents” is used because going up to Jerusalem involved a climb of about three thousand feet, up Mount Zion.) These songs are written in a variety of forms, and while many of them refer directly to the journey and the festivals, they also speak about a broad range of other experiences.

117

Psalms for Special Occasions: Pilgrimage 119 ? Who may Lord as the Creator and ends by depicting him, Israel’s protector in battle, protector depicting him, Israel’s by and ends as the Creator What would happen if someone stood outside the worship What would happen if someone stood pronounces a blessing on those 84, this psalm Like Psalm In session 7 you considered Psalm 139, another psalm of 139, another Psalm 7 you considered In session Psalm 24 also seems to have been written for the pilgrimage festivals, for the pilgrimage festivals, been written 24 also seems to have Psalm since it asks, “Who of the may ascend the mountain who come to God’s temple in sincerity and devotion. Do you feel who come to God’s temple in sincerity a “blessing” ever received you’ve by visiting a “holy place”? If so, tell the group about your experience. Do you think this happened because there was something special about the very ground you were standing on? Or did this visit become the occasion for this blessing in some other way? Have someone read Psalm 24 out loud. Note that it begins by describing by that it begins 24 out loud. Note Psalm someone read Have  challenged people to make sure gathering of your community and heart”they had “clean hands and a pure if they were going to come inside?  itself, the “dwelling place” of God. How do sanctuaries, spaces set of God. How do sanctuaries, spaces place” the “dwelling itself, presence? a unique experience of God’s apart for God, provide traveling along with you on this pilgrimage, surprising you with you surprising pilgrimage, on this with you along traveling the way? mercies along  in God’s presence of faith can be saw how a person trust, and 84 The pilgrims described in Psalm anywhere in the world. to Jerusalem. of this themselves on their way experience something the temple expresses a deep longing to be in But the writer still Lord stand in his holy place?” Some interpreters believe that a group actually sang actually that a group believe interpreters stand in his holy place?” Some to the temple, and coming up they were as crowds to the out these questions responding with by of their worship that the pilgrims affirmed the sincerity heart, who does not hands and a pure the next lines: “The one who has clean a false god.” trust by an idol or swear in the is in between. victoriously to the temple. The pilgrimage section returning 2 - - - READING AND DISCUSSION

Have you ever gone on a pilgrimage, a journey to some What’s the largest crowd you’ve ever been in that gathered ever been What’syou’ve the largest crowd What’s the largest crowd you’ve ever been in that gathered been in that gathered ever What’s crowd you’ve the largest Have someone read Psalm 84 for the group. In its form, this pilgrimage In 84 for the group. Psalm someone read Have con joy, describes the mostly trust.a psalm of It most resembles psalm  significant religious site or in search of a deeper experience of God? If so, tell the group about it. Did you find that God was Psalm 84 remarks how blessed the priests and Levites must be who are Levites must be who are blessed the priests and how 84 remarks Psalm

Tell the group about this experience. What would it be like if the about this experience. What would the group Tell in as great gathered for religious events people of your culture secular occasions? numbers as for the most important Tell the group what this experience was like. the group Tell  Easter service, occasion? (A city-wide specifically for a religious visit, etc.) festival in a stadium or park, a papal a Christian music  Eve in Times New Year’s example, occasion? (For for a special capital, etc.) of a national holiday in your Square, the celebration In this session we’ll first look at some pilgrimage psalms and then con then and psalms pilgrimage some at look first we’ll session this In of water in the Valley of Baka (probably an arid valley they need to pass to need they valley arid an (probably Baka of Valley the in water of by similar blessings sustained to strength,” strength “go from They through). in Zion.” God each appears before “till all along the way, eagerly go to Jerusalem for the festivals. They experience God’s goodness not goodness God’s They experience for the festivals. eagerly go to Jerusalem example, they find springs For there. only at the temple, but also on their way always in God’s house. But it says that those whose “hearts are set on pilgrim it says that those whose “hearts are house. But always in God’s who, like the psalmist, Israelites devout just as blessed. This means are age” tentment, and security of seeking and trustingtentment, and security of seeking and with only a brief petition God, anointed one”). on your favor the end (“Look with for the king towards 1 sider the songs of ascents. sider the

Psalms for Special Occasions: Pilgrimage 118

Psalms for Special Occasions: Pilgrimage 121 Imprecatory: Psalm 129 Psalm Imprecatory: 130 Psalm Penitential: 128 Psalm Wisdom: ------Why might pilgrims on their way up to Jerusalem have sung each of sung each have Jerusalem way up to pilgrims on their Why might these psalms? - Supplication: Psalms 120, 123, 132 Psalms Supplication: 124 Psalm Thanksgiving: Psalm 126 Thanksgiving and supplication: 125, 127 Psalms Trust: - - - - FOR FURTHER READING AND DISCUSSION FOR FURTHER - - - - As noted above, songs of ascents take a variety of forms and songs of ascents take a variety As noted above, already situations. speak to a number of different (You’ve 131, in session 7 as a psalm of one of them, Psalm considered they’re songs of ascents, and see how following the trust.) Read examples of the forms listed: Read Psalm 15. How is it similar to and different from Psalm 24? from is it similar to and different 15. How Psalm Read Psalm 134 Psalm Jerusalem is located.) Jerusalem 122 Psalm a sense of 133 (This psalm uses two images to express Psalm oil was poured this desert culture In oil and dew. refreshment: the skin.) on the head to rehydrate Psalm 121 (“The mountains” here probably refers to where refers to where probably here 121 (“The mountains” Psalm

Conclude your time together, if you wish, by singing or listening if you wish, by singing or listening Conclude your time together, following songs of ascents. Identify where and how each speaks to the each speaks to and how where of ascents. Identify songs following Divide your group into four teams and have each one look at one of the at one of one look each have teams and into four group your Divide • • •  Lift My Eyes Up,” which is based on song “I to Brian Doerksen’s 121. Psalm • • •

any songs or hymns that are based on it? Once all the teams have read and read have teams the all Once on it? based are that hymns or songs any share them out loud for the group, they should read discussed their psalms, pose their questions for everyonetheir insights, and to consider. or prayer that were in Psalms 84 and 24? What experiences of your own does own your of experiences What 24? and 84 Psalms in were that prayer or know you Do it raise for you? What questions does the psalm call to mind? experience of going on pilgrimage or of being in Jerusalem for one of the an for one of the in Jerusalem or of being of going on pilgrimage experience of trust, (psalm song it most resemble of psalm does What type nual festivals. protection, themes of blessing, see the you praise, etc.)? Do psalm of of Zion, 3

Psalms for Special Occasions: Pilgrimage 120 SESSION 23

PSALMS FOR SPECIAL OCCASIONS: COVENANT RENEWAL

INTRODUCTION Many interpreters believe there was one more special occasion in the life of ancient Israel that some of the psalms were written for: a regular (perhaps annual) ceremony of covenant renewal. Other interpreters dispute this idea, arguing that there’s no actual proof a ceremony like this was held regularly at the temple. But the theme that the nation must make a renewed commitment to its covenant with the Lord does figure prominently in certain psalms that seem to be intended for use in a great assembly. In this session we’ll consider several psalms that invite the people to gather and renew their covenant with the Lord, leaving open the question of whether these psalms were composed for an established regular celebration.

READING AND DISCUSSION In Psalm 50, God calls for all of Israel to be gathered together in his 1 presence so he can speak to them about keeping their covenant with him. Have someone read this psalm out loud. Here God addresses two groups of people. The first are generally -ob serving the covenant, but in a formal way, through the regularly prescribed 123

Psalms for Special Occasions: Covenant Renewal 125

- Lord ,” probably non-Israelites who have come to believe come to believe who have non-Israelites probably ,” Lord .” These groups are “his people Israel” (literally “house of Israel,” Israel,” of (literally “house Israel” “his people are These groups .” and worship at his temple. Each group is given the opportunity is given and worship at his temple. Each group What opportunities does your community give for people What opportunities does your community If you belong to a community of Jesus’ followers, picture God picture God of Jesus’ followers, to a community If you belong Lord Lord Psalm 115 was also written for an occasion when the people of Israel when the people of Israel 115 was also written for an occasion Psalm a bless for them to receive a vehicle since it provides together, gathered community offer this opportunity? If your study of the songs in the community offer this opportunity? now like to where you’d Bible has helped bring you to the place They can help share this with your group. “I’m in!” yourself, say, you make this commitment publicly. Have one person read this psalm out loud. Divide everyone else into this psalm out loud. Divide one person read Have  pledge their loyalty to God for the “I’m in!” and openly to say, for people to renew their first time? Are there also opportunities you like to see your commitments? If so, how? If not, would  81, as he does in Psalm and saying, them all together gathering say What does God I will warn you.” my people, and “Hear me, next? calling on the people to answer charges. Instead, it boldly asserts all that charges. Instead, to answer calling on the people worth and serving, worshipping because nations aren’t the gods of the other people to “trust of groups three calls upon therefore lifeless idols. It they’re in the and (the priests), in general), the “house of Aaron” the people of the nation who fear the “those in the or in a the first time in!”—either for “I’m and say, to this call to respond The psalm is their help and shield.” the line, “He chanting by way, renewed with a call concludes It a blessing on each of these groups. then pronounces God alone can on the occasion of this gathering, the kind of worship to offer, people living on earth. from receive with them respond and have the ones listed above, representing groups, three places. at the appropriate help and shield” is their “He 3 depict the doesn’t It the annual pilgrimage festivals. ing, as they did at

more real. see any connection between that and living for justice. don’t you identify with? this psalm addresses to the people need to put their faith on the line if they want it to become need to put their faith on the line if What steps do you need to take to respond to the challenge What steps do you need to take to This psalm was written for some ceremonial occasion in the life of occasion This psalm was written for some ceremonial

Which people in Psalm 50 do you identify with more? Why? Which people in Psalm • Those who consider themselves religious or spiritual, but who • are going through the motions of religion, who Those who Have someone read Psalm 81 for the group. Psalm someone read Have In its form and wording, Psalm 81 is much like Psalm 50. God speaks 50. God 81 is much like Psalm Psalm its form and wording, In

 God also addresses the “wicked.” They claim to be part of the covenant, They claim to be part of the covenant, the “wicked.” also addresses God and provision once again. and provision through the motions of worship or thinking they can do no wrong; they are they are the motions of worship or thinking they can do no wrong; through The psalm issues a call for gods.” actually worshipping and serving “foreign and so experience his protection God to their covenant the people to return directly to the people and challenges them. There is a significant difference, is a significant difference, to the people and challenges them. There directly just going is not that the people are problem 81 the specific Psalm In however. the nation, since it begins with a call for the sounding of the ram’s horn, as for the sounding of the ram’s the nation, since it begins with a call festivals. celebrations and the annual pilgrimage Moon at the monthly New 2 character of God. He threatens them with destruction if they don’t start living them with destruction don’t if they threatens He character of God. in a way that truly of justice.” him as the “God honors but they’re breaking its essential requirements. In language that alludes to the language In its essential requirements. breaking but they’re adultery, theft, of guilty they’re how describes God Commandments, Ten the with consistent are things these believe actually They witness. false and you, and make this the subject of real praise and thanksgiving. praise subject of real and make this the you, thanksgiving you’ve been exploring throughout this guide. “Call on me in this guide. “Call on throughout been exploring you’ve thanksgiving will honor and you you, them. “I will deliver urges God trouble,” the day of for through watch me come faith on the line, your put words, other In me.” sacrifices at the temple. God encourages them to pursue a more personal personal more pursue a to them God encourages temple. at the sacrifices and of supplication dynamic the entering into by with him relationship

Psalms for Special Occasions: Covenant Renewal 124 P salms for S pecial O ccasions  If you wish, conclude your time together by singing or listening SESSION 24 to Chris Tomlin’s song “Not to Us,” which is based on the opening of Psalm 115.

FOR YOUR NEXT MEETING EXPERIENCING THE BOOK OF PSALMS In your final session you’ll be experiencing the book of Psalms as a whole. AS A WHOLE : C ovenant R enewal You’ll need to schedule a special meeting of at least three hours, plus time for breaks, to read through the entire book. It would be ideal to arrange to share a meal during or after the reading. If you’re using this guide for a community Bible experience, your whole church should gather to do the session together. Ideally this should be done as a one-day retreat.

INTRODUCTION In this final session you’ll experience the book of Psalms as a whole by reading through it together. You’ll appreciate and share the breadth and depth of the spiritual experiences expressed throughout the entire collection. This will be a celebration and culmination of your engagement with these ancient but timeless worship songs. Now that you’ve learned how the forms of the various psalms enable them to communicate their distinctive messages, you’ll engage each one with understanding and sympathy. When you hear a psalm begin, “Listen to my prayer, O God, do not ignore my plea,” you’ll recognize it as supplication. When you hear another one report, “In my distress I called to the Lord . . . from his temple he heard my voice,” you’ll know it’s a psalm of thanksgiving. And so forth. In addition, by hearing the whole book at once, you’ll be able to follow the flow of the entire collection in the final shape it has been given by those who gathered the psalms together:

1. The first principle of organization is by authorship as it was traditionally understood. The book begins with a large collection of psalms attributed to 126 127

Experiencing the Book of Psalms as a Whole 129 READING DISCUSSION builds up Jerusalem; he gathers the exiles of Israel.” he gathers the exiles of builds up Jerusalem; Book V then represents the return from exile. It begins with begins It exile. from the return represents V then Book Book for this deliverance. a psalm of thanksgiving 107, Psalm of note a resounding ends with and the whole collection, V, Psalm One of these, psalms. praise a series of five worship in exile: “The from of the return mention one more 147, makes Lord How would you sum up your experience with the book of  several months and in this complete reading? over the past Psalms What will you remember most about the book? What things have With this information about how the book of Psalms has been shaped, the book of Psalms this information about how With the book of Psalms through read church, or as an entire As a group • Psalms took place when two wisdom of the book of 4. The final shaping psalms were placed in commanding locations, Psalm 1 at the beginning of 1 at Psalm placed in commanding locations, psalms were the start 73 at of Book III. The placement of and Psalm the whole collection, can the book throughout that the experiences recorded these psalms signals as they would the to those who will meditate on them of wisdom be a source of the whole by the division the message sent reinforces This other Scriptures. books. collection into five story entire the Israel, of community the of relive can you it, to listen you as members the range of spiritual experiences its individual share as you even expressed. have one psalm each. (When get to people take turns reading you Have together. the end of section each.) At one alphabetical read people 119, have Psalm for books the collection has been divided into, take a break each of the five a and perhaps a physical activity if needed. Share drinks and refreshments, V. or Book meal together at the end of Book III - - , the God of Israel, from from of Israel, , the God Lord reigns” (Psalms 93, 97, and 99). (Psalms reigns” Lord begin by declaring “the declaring “the begin by history 106, a salvation psalm that Book IV ends with Psalm to bring the people back from for God concludes with a prayer exile. Psalm 89, a salvation history psalm that traces Israel’s story up history 89, a salvation psalm that traces Israel’s Psalm his to remember for God to the exile and ends with a petition love.” great “former Yahweh true king Book IV asserts that, despite the exile, Israel’s psalms that the world. This book includes several still rules over psalm, originally came at the start this of Book I, to emphasize 72, another corona theme. Book II ends with Psalm monarchy tion psalm. 74, originally began with Psalm the exile. It Book III represents with Book III ends the destruction Jerusalem. of a lament over Books I and II represent the monarchy period, before the exile, the period, before the monarchy Books I and II represent a coronation 2, king. Psalm was ruled its own by when Israel • • 3. Then, in a further been placed at the shaping, individual psalms have • 2. The entire collection is then divided into five “books.” This is modeled This is modeled “books.” into five collection is then divided 2. The entire beginning or end of books so that the collection as a whole traces the outlines beginning or end of books so that the history. and religious national of Israel’s tion, a statement blessing God, has been inserted God, tion, a statement blessing book. at the end of each be to the Each one says something like, “Praise Amen and Amen.” to everlasting. everlasting is inserted. Book III comprises the Asaph collection and the second Korah second Korah inserted.the is and collection Asaph the III comprises Book the mostly anonymous psalms. A benedic V include Books IV and group. of showing that the psalms can be read and studied as Scripture. The divisions studied as Scripture. and can be read that the psalms of showing psalms make up collections. David’s to the authorship roughly correspond Korah group the first them occurs where division between Books I and II; the on the way the Torah or law of Moses was divided into five books. It’s a way a It’s books. five into divided was Moses of law or Torah the way the on Korah, and finally a long group of mostly anonymous psalms (which includes (which includes anonymous psalms of mostly a long group and finally Korah, David). additional ones by or so a dozen David that has a small group by the Sons of Korah in the middle. A short middle. in the of Korah the Sons by small group has a that David of the Sons another by then to Asaph follows, of psalms attributed collection

Experiencing the Book of Psalms as a Whole 128 Have the psalms encouraged your own personal creative encouraged your own personal creative Have the psalms Which is your favorite psalm? Why? Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Why? statement? Why? with the following agree or disagree Do you  media? If so, how? art, or other music, poetry, expression through  allow in our own communities.” If you agree with the statement, communities.” If you agree with the allow in our own authentic your community encourage a more in what ways could experiences range of feelings, questions, and expression of a wider God? in relationship with has your relationship with God grown and developed? God grown and relationship with has your  “The and more honest us a much broader psalms model for or experience than we usually practice expression of spiritual you come to understand for the first time or in a new way? How How new way? or in a first time for the understand come to you

Experiencing the Book of Psalms as a Whole 130 ALSO AVAILABLE

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