Individual studies
Psalm 132
- In v.1, the psalmist asks God to remember David. What is/are his reasons for asking God about that?
- The Ark (eg. V.4) represents the presence of God in the times of this Psalm.In what ways have we “heard” of God and “found” him?
- Despite the Ark being a physical building. To what extent is David’s description of the celebration of finding the Ark something physical, e.g. a statue?
- Think of an occasion when God answered your request in terms of something tangible (e.g., the phone can be repaired and data recovered) or temporal (e.g., the delayed bus caught up in its schedule so you were not late for an interview). Write a short testimony (e.g., 3-4 sentences) as if you were speaking to a stranger who showed interest in your experience.
- What does a prosperous Jerusalem look like?
- In v.17, what is the purpose of a king’s power?
- When we aim to do the Lord’s work, we often face resistance and ridicule. How might we remain dedicated to the Lord’s work such that we remain righteous, full of praise, and assured of God’s promise to us?
The Lord Remembers His Promise
Psalm 132: anthem
Psalm 149
- In v.1, where do God’s people sing his praises?
- Compare v.1 with vv8 and 9, what does God do to his people in front of those who refuse to believe him?
- Read v.2 replacing the pronouns to “I”, “me” and “my”; e.g. “Be glad, David, because of my creator” (Good News Tranlation), or “Let me be glad in my maker” (New Revised Standard Version). God is our maker, and we are his children. We can face a multitude of problems in what is happening to us, but God can help. Pray that God will speak to you as you open up to him.
- This psalm describes our praises to God as one that demands our physical strength, mental agility, communal harmony and spiritual submission. What might be some relevant verses?
- Re-read this psalm again and take note of the split between vv1-5 and vv6-9. First, the nature of our praise subtly shifts from v1 (a new song) to v9 (we are glorified). A second thing to note is that there is no break in the link from the praise in vv1-5, to the praise in vv6-9 where we are the ones executing judgment on those who refused to obey. As you reflect on this, how much do you agree with this reading of the psalm?
- Those who refuse to believe God are said to be punished. What hope is there for them to obey God? Write a short message to yourself (in the size of a postcard) about what you feel about someone who is troubling you that God will intervene. Put the message away and remind yourself to read it again in 3 or 6 months time. Has anything changed – you, the person, or something else?
Group studies
Psalm 14
- Who are the fools? They are not people who cannot do maths! For example, in v3, these fools have turned “aside” or “away”. What else has this psalm described them as?
- Scholars conclude that this psalm was written during the Babylonian exile. It shows the psalmist’s fervent faith on God. In your group, suggest different ways this psalm helps those in mental struggle, battling with visions and voices, to have faith in God.
- When the Israelites complained to God that they were stuck in the desert with no food, God provided manna (Exodus 16:3-4). With this as a background, it might be easier to make the link between God’s provision and our own need or stubbornness. What might be some learning points for those struggle to see God working in their lives? What examples do the group have, and individuals to pray for?
- In what ways does this psalm say that the people we disagree with are against God?
- Those who “frustrate” the plans of the oppressed (v6) can do so behind our back, with the torment taking time to unfold. They can appear very friendly and supportive, yet pursue their own agenda against us. What examples does the group have, and how does assurance of God’s protection help us?
- Reflect on the way God guided and supported us as a group or church when we faced tremendous opposition due to our faith. That often is despite our complaint to him and our unbelief. Pray to God with praise and thanksgiving and seek his guidance.
Psalm 86
- In v.1: What does the psalmist ask of God and why?
- The psalm describes undesirable situation he is in, e.g. “sad” (v.4) and “in trouble” (v.7). What else can you find in this psalm?
- The psalm also describes what the psalmist hopes of God. He writes these in terms of requests he makes to God. List 2 or 3 that are most meaningful to you. In what ways are they meaningful to you?
- Continuing from the previous question, choose one of those in your list. Taking turn in your group, tell you group what your item is; if you like, explain it further.
- Pray about difficult situations or problems arising from the previous question. The new Psalm 86 composition “Incline Your Ear, O Lord” might be helpful to meditate on God’s protection and help: suggest to the group what other worship hymns or songs are helpful.
- Memorise one important and meaningful sentence from this psalm that you can recall when you feel you are in difficult situation or needing help. Let your group know what this sentence is (or the verse). Say it to each other to build each other up. Try to do this as you meet in the coming weeks.