Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 149

Psalm 149

 

-Theme: A victory celebration for God’s people for His salvation and the enemies’ defeat. God truly enjoys His people.

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymous Psalm summoning up the promises of God for His people for complete and utter victory as He judges those who have dealt ruthlessly with Israel.

-*Application* This marred and wounded world under the dominion of Satan can beat up the believer with all manner of persecution and trouble. We need to remind ourselves often that the words in this Psalm hold true, not just for the nation of Israel, but for all people of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. “The LORD takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the afflicted ones with salvation (Psalm 149:4).” We will sing a “new song” of praise and adoration unto the One who overcomes and judges our enemies. Our Maker will prevail, and we will rejoice in the fact that good has won with dancing and absolute celebration. This victory will be better than winning the Super Bowl, or any other championship you can imagine. This is our assured destiny as children of God, and we can look forward in confident hope that our King reigns. So exult Him in glory wherever you are in life. Better days are on the way brothers and sisters who are IN Christ Jesus. There will be honor for all His godly ones (Psalm 149:9).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 149:4

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 148

Psalm 148

 

-Theme: Let all creation exalt and praise the LORD God.

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymous Psalm of praise in the last book.

-*Application* Notice that everything in existence is calling out to God in worship during this chapter. What a contemplation. All that God has created deserves His adoration and glory. “His Name alone is exalted (Psalm 148:13).” Notice too that He has raised up a Horn for His people (Psalm 148:14). This is a reference to His Son, Jesus (1 Samuel 2:10, 2 Samuel 22:3, Ezekiel 29:21, Luke 1:69). Yes, all His godly ones can rejoice, both the grafted in and the sons of Israel, who are a people near to Him (Romans 11:1-26). Praise the LORD!

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 148:14

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 147

Psalm 147

 

-Theme: The extended worship of the LORD for His amazing attributes and power.

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymous Psalm, which was quite possibly written when the exiles returned from their Babylonian captivity to Jerusalem.

-*Application* It is good to sing praise and worship the LORD with complete awe and reverence. It is becoming to His servants to give their Master proper fear and adoration. Our God reigns in majesty and power. He builds up His Kingdom and still gathers the outcasts who have been far from Him. He heals the brokenhearted and binds up the wounds of the downtrodden. Not only that, He has complete control and knowledge of His creation, even numbering every single star in the universe. God is great and abundant in strength. He supports the afflicted, and brings the wicked down in their folly. We should be thankful and grateful to have so great a King. He takes care of things and frees us from worry when we simply trust Him. His Word never fails, and He will be faithful to every promise. Praise the LORD!

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 147:5

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 146

Psalm 146

 

-Theme: Temporal man verses the eternal power of God

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymous Psalm of the 5^th book.

-*Application* Praise is once again emphasized as this chapter commences. Our LORD desires every ounce of our praise with all our soul while we live. Even after we will worship the King forever (Psalm 30:12; 145:1). Because God is eternal, and man is not, He is the only source and hope for salvation. The thoughts of princes and rulers of this world will perish when they depart (Psalm 146:4). The only way to be eternally blessed is to hope in the LORD God of Jacob. He is our help. He is the Creator of everything and keeps faith forever (Psalm 146:5-6). The LORD is the One who executes justice for the oppressed and food to the hungry. He sets the prisoners free (Psalm 146:7)! Not only that, He, as portrayed so well by the Messiah, opens the eyes of the blind and raises up those who are bowed down in humility (Luke 7:22). The LORD loves the righteous, or in other words, those who have the righteousness of Christ Jesus (Psalm 146:8, Philippians 1:11; 3:9). He protects strangers and supports the fatherless and the widows. He frustrates and thwarts the way of the wicked who scheme evil (Psalm 146:9). God reigns forever to all generations! What began with praise also ends with praise (Psalm 146:10).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 146:8

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 145

Psalm 145

 

-Theme: The endless praise of God’s people unto their King. Generational training for perpetual praise and knowledge of the Holy. God’s grace, mercy, patience, and lovingkindness to all. The LORD’s availability to those who humble themselves and call upon His Name.

-Historical Insight: This is a Psalm of praise from King David.

-*Application* Take time to extol all of the great attributes and characteristics of our great God and King, Yahweh, today. He is worth every ounce of our praise. Tell of Him to the next generation. Darkness will prevail unless we shine the Light of Christ with them unashamedly. The LORD’s splendor is glorious and His power is intense with awesome acts. Testify of His greatness. He is good and righteous towards all, “and His mercies are over all His works (Psalm 145:9).” Give thanks unto Him for His abounding sustenance and make Him known famously. His Kingdom is everlasting, and His dominion endures throughout all generations (Psalm 145:13). He is willing to lift up those who fall and are humble enough to beseech His help (Psalm 145:14). He satisfies our desires like nothing else can. He is righteous in all His ways and kind in all His deeds (Psalm 145:17). “The LORD is near to all who call upon Him; to all who call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of those who fear Him; He will also hear their cry and will save them (Psalm 145:18-19).” Not only that, but “the LORD keeps all who love Him (Psalm 145:20a).” However, the wicked He will destroy; therefore, our mouths should praise Him and all flesh should “bless His holy Name forever and ever (Psalm 145:20b-21).”

 

Verses to Memorize: Psalm 145:4, 14, 18-19

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 144

Psalm 144

 

-Theme: The LORD is our Rock. Praising the LORD for His capable care. The blessings of having the LORD as our God.

-Historical Insight: This is a Psalm of David who appears more victorious and stable in the latter periods of his life as the king of Israel.

-*Application* The Rock of the LORD is significant for us to contemplate here today. Christ Jesus is our spiritual Rock (Matthew 16:15-19, 1 Corinthians 10:4). He is the mountain of power that Daniel spoke of who would arise out of mediocrity and set up His Kingdom to rule forever and ever (Daniel 2:35, 44-45). Sadly, many stumble over this Divine Stone. It is by faith that we enter into a relationship with the Rock, the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 9:32-33). Then, as believers we begin to be built up as living stones ourselves to do the work of the Kingdom of God (1 Peter 2:2-9). A rock represents strength and solid protection. It is not moved and resists the onslaught of the enemy (Matthew 7:24-25, Luke 6:48). Consider the analogy of physical rock to the Rock. It is no wonder then that David can say that he has been properly trained up for warfare (Psalm 144:1). The LORD is our lovingkindness, fortress, stronghold, deliverer, shield, and refuge. He considers us in our humble weakness and forges a mighty army through His strength alone to penetrate spiritually dark places. Look at what the LORD does for us against our evil enemies. He scatters them and confuses them (Psalm 144:6). They will be wrangled in their deceit and falsehood leaving us to sing a “new song” of salvation as His servants, just like David (Psalm 144:7-11). With the LORD as our Rock, prosperity begins to be expected as His blessings are poured out upon us and our families (Psalm 144:12-14). We become “situated” (kakah, adverb- like so, thus) as happy and fortunate people in His Kingdom (Psalm 144:15). Choose the Rock and bless His Name.

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 144:15

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 143

Psalm 143

 

-Theme: Cry out to God in times of desperation and suffering. A plea for God’s mercy. God’s will and His Spirit’s leading. God’s faithfulness, compassionate love, righteousness, and deliverance.

-Historical Insight: This is a beseeching Psalm of David during some difficult days of uncertainty in his life.

-*Application* There can definitely be some confusing times of desperation during the course of our lives. How is the best way to deal with these types of situations? We can observe from this passage that prayer is a powerful weapon indeed to combat our bewildering moments. Prayer reminds us of God’s immutable character, or in other words, His unchanging ways. Prayer brings us back to the point of remembrance and offers us a better reality than our current circumstances. It gives us hope to carry on and trust in God’s preferred future. Meditate heavily on God’s communication with us. Out of that the realization of His faithfulness, His righteousness, His security, His deliverance, and His love will begin to flow. Then, ask the LORD to teach you to do His will. He is our God, and His “good Spirit” will lead us on level ground (denoting stability and uprightness). God, for the sake of His good Name, will revive His servants from every trouble. The enemies of the LORD will be cut off, and victory is assured. So, keep trusting in His goodness even when you are in the midst of difficult days. It shall pass.

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 143:10

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 142

Psalm 142

 

-Theme: The issue of pouring out our needs before God in trust and confidence when we feel overwhelmed and desperate. God’s protection in dire circumstances.

-Historical Insight: This is a Maskil (a Psalm that teaches you something, knowledge, enlightenment) of David when he was running to escape with his physical life and hiding in a cave.

-*Application* What we have to discern and deal with here in this passage is David’s attitude towards his condition. What are we to conclude on this issue of complaining, as it is translated in the NASB. ESV, CSB, KJV, and NIV unanimously (Psalm 142:2)? Paul certainly did not endorse grumbling or disputing (Philippians 2:14). God got very angry with His children in the wilderness on this issue as well (Numbers 14). A closer look at the Hebrew rendering for “complaint” here, siyach- an object of concern or interest, is worth noting. Yes, David was in trouble. Yes, he cried out to God for deliverance and relief in desperate times. And yes, he was laid low. The difference, however, between him and those God rebukes for complaining is this: David continued to express trust and confidence in his Master, whereas the other examples of complaining, grumbling, and disputing are absorbed with discontentment and unbelief. David was able to keep his focus right in turbulent times. This should be an inspiration for us in today’s culture where we are attacked from every angle and on all sides. While our persecutors and adversaries are too strong for us, just like in David’s day (Psalm 142:6), we have a God who is able (Daniel 3:17, 2 Corinthians 9:8, 2 Timothy 1:12, Hebrews 7:25). He cares for our soul even when no one else on this earth does. He is a Savior, and we can give thanks always in His Name. In the final analysis, we as His children will be surrounded by the righteous and realize that the LORD has dealt bountifully with us too (Psalm 142:7)!

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 142:2

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 141

Psalm 141

 

-Theme: Call upon the LORD and trust Him when facing temptation and needing protection. The wisdom of righteous reproof.

-Historical Insight: This is a Psalm of David.

-*Application* How demanding are you when you beseech the God of the universe? David here shows us that boldness is a favored quality when we approach His throne of grace (Hebrews 4:16). Not only that, but we should have great expectation in faith when we pray (Matthew 21:22). Further, as responsible Christians we are to ask the Father to set a “guard” over our mouth and a “door” over our lips (Psalm 141:3). This is the same theme James picks up on with regard to the tongue and the damage that it can cause in our lives when left unchecked by the Holy Spirit (James 1:26; 3:5-12). The average person speaks around 700 times a day. It is wise to ask God to guard what we say. Speak blessing and build others up rather than tearing down with evil words in your life. Our words come from the overflow of our heart as David rightly assesses (Psalm 141:4). Where is the inclination of your heart today? Is it centered on God and His ways, or is it focused on self-gratification and gain? Your actions will reveal the real desires of your heart. Then, David focuses on accountability when he writes accurately on the advantage of receiving a righteous person’s rebuke for misdoings. There are three things here for us to consider from just criticism: 1) Don’t refuse it, 2) Consider it a kindness, 3) Keep quiet in it and resist the temptation to fight back. Discipline in your life can be ultimately productive and beneficial if we will be strong enough and mature enough to recognize that (Hebrews 12:5-17). Finally, David expresses the need to keep our eyes focused on the LORD for our security (Hebrews 12:1-2). Trusting in the all-powerful God to take care of us in the dangers of life is our best bet. He has a way of keeping us out of the “jaws” and “snares” of the wicked and their evil schemes to bring us safely through (Psalm 141:9-10, Ephesians 6:10-12).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 141:5

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 140

Psalm 140

 

-Theme: Protection of God for those who humbly trust in Him from the wicked who threaten them. God’s justice for the afflicted and poor.

-Historical Insight: This is a Psalm of David for the choir director. David for sure knew the onslaught of the enemy as a man of war and constantly being a refugee even after being anointed king of Israel. David is not ashamed to pray imprecatory prayers upon the enemies of God’s ways and His people (Psalms 10; 23; 28; 35; 59; 69; 109; 139; 140).

-*Application* Take some time today to reflect on your dependency upon your King for rescue, preserving, and keeping in an evil and adulterous generation. When we stand for Christ and His Kingdom, we will always be in for a war upon our values and our well-being. There is an adversary out to take us down. We desperately need to call upon the LORD as our protector and defender from those who would want to speak slanderously against us, set snares for us, and destroy our testimony and witness. Ask the LORD today to cover your “head in the day of battle (Psalm 140:7).” He is our salvation, and He is the One who maintains the cause of the afflicted and justice for the poor (Psalm 140:7a, 12). As a righteous person saved by the grace of God through Jesus Christ give thanks to His powerful Name (Psalm 140:13a). Keep loving people even when they despitefully use you (Matthew 5:44, Luke 6:28), and remember that the upright will dwell in the presence of the LORD forever (Psalm 140:13b).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 140:12

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 139

Psalm 139

 

-Theme: The omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient characteristics of God. Our greatest good is to know God and be known by Him. Repentance.

-Historical Insight: This is a Psalm for the choir director from the Holy Spirit given to David.

-*Application* This chapter has so many influential and impactful themes and thoughts for us to meditate on. These are well-known emphasizes and doctrines of Scripture that David elaborates on for us to understand our Creator better. The LORD’s foreknowledge, detail, and power is soooo far beyond us. Yet, He is with us no matter where we go or what we do. There is no darkness in our God. He is the Illuminator! We, as His creation, are skillfully, fearfully, and wonderfully made in His image (Psalm 139:13-16, Genesis 1:27). His thoughts towards us are precious and vast, outnumbering the sands on the seashore (Psalm 139:17-18). What an incredible thought and comfort from our Maker. What He does ask from us is to search our restless hearts and anxious thoughts and, as a result, conform to His ideal (Romans 8:28-30, 1 Peter 5:6-7). This necessarily involves repentance and transformation, which can only come through the drawing of His Holy Spirit (Romans 12:1-2, 2 Peter 3:9, Titus 3:5).

 

Verses to Memorize: Psalm 139:1, 4, 14-16, 23-24

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 138

Psalm 138

 

-Theme: God deserves our thanksgiving and praise for His Name, His lovingkindness, His truth, His Word, and His reviving answers even in our most trying times. God regards the lowly, but the haughty He knows from afar. The LORD will accomplish His will and cares for what concerns us.

-Historical Insight: David is the author of this thanksgiving Psalm. He had known the turbulence of dire situations and had learned to trust God with all things that concerned him. He knew the saving power of the LORD and the redemption that being humble brought.

-*Application* Are you stressed in life when you don’t get a fair shake? The last thing we naturally want to do in those times is thank God and sing praises to His Name. We tend to forget His lovingkindness, word, and truth when things go awry because of the haughty pride in people that use and abuse us. But, David here reminds us that it is not impossible to exalt the LORD and call out to Him during these tests and trials of life. When you do, you will find that God will make you bold with His supernatural strength and wisdom all the way down into your soul (Psalm 138:3). David reminds us here that there is no power established except by God (Romans 13:1) and that even the enemies of God will have to answer to Him at some point, for He is great and deserves thanksgiving (Psalm 138:4, Romans 14:11-12). Humility brings us close to the heart of God. This is why we should embrace our low moments in life so fervently. So when you “walk in the midst of trouble,” look to the LORD who revives and fights in the highest place specifically for you. His right Hand will save you as It did David (Psalm 138:7). He will faithfully accomplish what concerns you because His lovingkindness is everlasting and close to the faint of heart (Psalm 61:2; 138:8, Matthew 5:3,10-12)

 

Verses to Memorize: Psalm 138:3, 6

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 137

Psalm 137

 

-Theme: Remembering God in times of trial and sorrow. Grief in Babylon. The vengeance of the LORD for His people’s sake.

-Historical Insight: This seems to be a lamenting song of remembrance during the captivity of the Jewish people of Judah in Babylon (during the 500’s B.C.). It is an anonymous Psalm.

-*Application* Regret is one of the worst things anyone can experience. This Psalm depicts the time in Israel’s history when they sat down and wept because of all that was lost due to disobedience before their LORD and Savior (Lamentations 1). Their singing and joy had been stymied. Their pain was real. They had seen tragedy (2 Chronicles 36:15-21). In their agony, they at least remembered Jerusalem and the glory of God. In their desperation they begged for their Sovereign’s mercy upon their souls and eventual vengeance upon those who had so ruthlessly destroyed their well-being. The lesson for us is that we too can cry out in solemn remembrance when we’ve done wrong and are suffering the consequences. God is in the grace and forgiveness business and wants us to acknowledge Him (Proverbs 3:5-6). He is the only One who can truly turn your mourning into complete joy (Revelation 21:4).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 137:1

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 136

Psalm 136

 

-Theme: Giving thanks to the LORD for His everlasting lovingkindness and power.

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymous Psalm that chronicles much of the early history of the nation with thanksgiving to God for all that He has taken them through. He remembered their low estate and brought them into inheritance for His Name’s sake (Psalm 136:21-23, Isaiah 63:12). The phrase “For His lovingkindness is everlasting” occurs at the end of every verse in this chapter.

-*Application* Through turbulent adventures the LORD carries His people with complete care and love. He is with us through the storms of life even when we don’t necessarily “feel” Him there. Remember to have faith in these times and continue to praise His holy Name. He will rescue, He will deliver, He will provide the inheritance that He promised (Ephesians 1:18, Colossians 3:23-24, 1 Peter 1:3-4). So continue to trust Him completely and fervently. He is good (Psalm 136:1). He is everlasting. He is Ruler of all. He does great wonders (Psalm 136:4). He has the skill (Psalm 136:5). He comes through in the clutch. He remembers us when we are low (Psalm 136:23). God provides (Psalm 136:25). Give Him all thanks for His lovingkindness is everlasting!

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 136:24

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 135

Psalm 135

 

-Theme: Giving praise and blessing to the LORD. Realizing that God is great and above all other gods.

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymous Psalm that gives some brief allusions to the history of God’s providence over His chosen people.

-*Application* Servants of the most high God should praise and bless His awesome Name every single moment of every single day. How can we do that successfully? By staying fresh in His presence and realizing His characteristics continually. Meditation on His precepts and power, love in our heart for Him, and passionately serving His purposes puts us on our way to a fulfilled life in Christ. The author here also suggests singing His praises, which there are no shortage of great songs to reflect His glory in our day and age. The LORD is the only true God, and there can be no other. All other gods are works of man’s hands. They cannot speak, see, or hear. In other words, they have no life breath and cannot do anything eternally beneficial in the deceived heart of those who succumb to their tyranny. We are left then with an obvious choice it would seem. Fear God and live, or serve idols and die. “Those who make them (idols) will be like them, yes, everyone who trusts in them (Psalm 135:18).” Instead, choose to speak, see, hear, and breathe in the Spirit of Christ Jesus. This is true life (John 11:25-27)!

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 135:5

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 134

Psalm 134

 

-Theme: Worshiping God in His Temple in Zion. Being a servant of the LORD. The Creator of heaven and earth is Yahweh. Yahweh gives out blessings from His throne.

-Historical Insight: This is the last of the “Songs of Ascent” or “Pilgrim Psalms.” This short stanza is written anonymously, but some have suggested Hezekiah as the worshipful writer of this piece.

-*Application* As servants of the LORD, we are to bless Him in everything that we do. Servants hold a special place in God’s economy and He expects much from them to ensure His blessing upon them (Psalm 119:91, 1 Corinthians 3:5; 4:1, Revelation 10:7). Paul, and all the apostles, routinely called themselves servants, or slaves (doulos), of Christ Jesus. This is how we should approach our ministry unto Him as well. So lift up your hands in praise as well as work; don’t rest them. The time to labor is now for the Kingdom of God. Remember, faith without works is dead and useless (James 2:20, 26). Make sure you’re led by the Spirit of God to accomplish His mission. Then you can expect His rewards that He generously pours out from His throne in Zion. The Creator of heaven and earth deserves your vigor. Serve him gladly and you will reap with joy (Psalm 126:5, 2 Corinthians 9:6, Galatians 6:7-9).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 134

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 133

Psalm 133

 

-Theme: The joy and pleasantness of harmonious relationships. Unity.

-Historical Insight: This is a “Psalm of Ascent” written by David to the children of Israel with significance for every believer in the Lord Jesus Christ.

-*Application* Unity is one of those ever elusive traits in the course of human endeavor. It is a huge theme in Scripture whether you to talk about the union of the Trinity, the brotherhood of the Kingdom of Israel, or the Church of the New Testament. God expects us to work together. When we do, we find goodness and pleasantness that increases our well-being, or shalom. The oil here in this chapter is symbolic representation once again of the Holy Spirit’s work and how it comes down on people who are tuned in, or on the same page, with Him (Ephesians 4:1-6). Life forever dwells in the unity of our relationship with the LORD, and it necessarily spreads from there to others with joy in our life’s walk (Philippians 2:1-14).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 133:1

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 132

Psalm 132

 

-Theme: The covenant of God with His people Israel and to David and to His Anointed of David’s line. Jerusalem, the footstool of the LORD where His people can worship Him.

-Historical Insight: This is an anonymously, but powerfully, written “Song of Ascent” or “Pilgrim Psalm” that would have been sung by the faithful as they entered into the holy city and into the Temple area. It remembers the history of their nation and the promises that had been made in covenant between God and the children of Jacob. It glorifies the LORD who has allowed this holy Temple to be erected and sustained with priests clothed in righteousness as a place to worship in His presence. The LORD has chosen Zion, and from it would spring forth the Messiah, Jesus Christ. His Kingdom would shame the enemies of the LORD, which is both historical and prophetic.

-*Application* In the first stanza, we see the determination and fortitude of King David to find a place for his LORD to be worshiped. This is the heart that is after God in pure-unadulterated worship. We need this type of heart as we seek to carry out God’s will in our lives. Pursue God hard and don’t rest until you see His glory revealed. The second stanza furthers the task of going into His sanctuary and giving Him all praise and adoration. The ark of His strength are His commands trumped by His mercy seat, a symbol of His justice and grace all in one accord (Exodus 25:16-22, Hebrews 9:11-28). We also should note here that we are to be clothed in His righteousness, not our own, as we come before the King of kings (Isaiah 61:10, Matthew 22:2-14). As the third stanza unfolds we are reminded of the promises of God towards His people. This denotes the faithfulness of the Father to carry out His covenant of truth. It also exhorts us to be faithful in our devotion as well. The final stanza reflects God’s choosing of Zion as His resting place forever. He will abundantly bless her provision and satisfy all who enter His resting place. Salvation clothes the ones who abide here, and they will sing with joy eternally as the Messiah takes His rightful place as the “Light of the World (John 8:12, 2 Corinthians 4:4).” Make sure that you are not an enemy of the LORD in this saga. Join the Kingdom, and you will never have to be ashamed. 

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 132:17

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 131

Psalm 131

 

-Theme: Dependency and contentment in God’s design for our lives. Our hope is in the LORD of Israel.

-Historical Insight: This “Psalm of Ascent” was written by arguably the greatest king in all of Israel’s history, King David. Yet, he humbles himself before the LORD in this Psalm knowing there are things too great for him alone. It takes the power of God to accomplish greatness. David was a man after God’s own heart (Acts 13:22).

-*Application* A proud heart, haughty eyes, and going beyond God’s designed plans will get you in a mess of trouble (Proverbs 6:16-19; 16:5; 21:4, Daniel 5:20, Hosea 13:6, Luke 1:51). How important is contentment in your life today (1 Timothy 6:6-12)? When we observe a man who was raised up to be the leader of a great nation, like King David, humbly submitting and admitting that some things don’t need his involvement because of their difficulty, we should understand that we too cannot do it all. This is where the Body of Christ comes in to compliment, surround, and partner with accomplishing Kingdom achievements that far exceeds personal gain (Ephesians 4:1-16). So, today quiet and compose your soul like a little baby with his/her mommy. Cradle yourself in the care of the Father and be content to rest in His will for your life. You will find peace like never before when you flow with His Spirit’s intention. Hope in your capable Sovereign. Resist striving and the natural tendency of pride. Simply answer your call that has been placed upon your life and give all glory to the One who deserves it. If you do this, pretty soon you’ll find that your heart is after God’s too.

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 131:1

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 130

Psalm 130

 

-Theme: The forgiving power of God, which leads to reverence of Him. Confessing our sins. Waiting on and hoping in the LORD. The lovingkindness of the Redeemer of Israel.

-Historical Insight: This is yet another anonymous “Psalm of Ascent,” which may have been written by Hezekiah.

-*Application* I love the general term “depths” that the author uses here (Psalm 130:1). This term denotes variety in those sunken situations that we find ourselves immersed in throughout our lives when we transgress God’s commands and plans. There’s no doubt about it, sin puts us in a pit. When we are down and without hope for redemption, we can always cry out to God who hears our voice. In His lovingkindness, grace, and mercy He takes pity on our lowly estate and brings us back to a place where we stand in awe of His restoration. His forgiveness, not His justice, is what we truly need. So wait on the LORD and His “abundant redemption (Psalm 130:7).” We have hope in His Word, the cross, and the resurrection that it will come, and all of our iniquities will be washed away giving us eternal sanctified life (Ephesians 5:25-27).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 130:7

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 129

Psalm 129

 

-Theme: Trusting in the LORD to devour the devourer. Enduring persecution with the right perspective. The LORD is righteous and delivers. The love of Zion and the shame of those who hate God’s ways.

-Historical Insight: This “Psalm of Ascent” is another anonymous writing, but some have again suggested King Hezekiah as the author who endured well the onslaught of  the Assyrians.

-*Application* Growing up is often hard to do. We are pulled and tugged in so many directions. Evil is trying to steal, kill, and destroy the abundant life that God wants for us as we mature (John 10:10). Persecution is part of the process of spiritual development, and the one who learns to appreciate its tutelage will gain much. The Word here teaches us not to give up in stressful-turbulent circumstances that are brought about by the wicked. Instead, grow out of those experiences and develop the dependency on Christ and love for others that He expects (Luke 10:27, Ephesians 4:15). The wicked have shallow roots and will wither quickly. Spiritually speaking, your standing in Christ is a much more permanent and fruit-bearing plant that will stand the scorching rays of the sun. Finally, be an encourager rather than a discourager. Bless people in the Name of the LORD. It will bring about blessing in your own life, believe it.

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 129:2

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 128

Psalm 128

 

-Theme: Fear of the LORD to ensure blessings in life. Keys to a peaceful-prosperous home. God’s reward for a man’s devotion to Him is inner peace.

-Historical Insight: This “Psalm of Ascent” is a traditional marriage prayer sung at Jewish weddings. It is an anonymous Psalm, but some have suggested Hezekiah as the author.

-*Application* Fear of the LORD breeds blessing. Walk in His ways and enjoy all of His benefits. Your wife will be a fruitful vine within your home, and your children will be like beautiful olive plants around your table. This is beautiful lyric for a well-adjusted, stable home where peace and love reign over every area. God’s blessings and prosperity only come when we submit to His authority over our lives. When we turn our lives over to the ways of the Master, He gently endorses the steps we take according to His will. From His throne He gives true abundance all the days of our earthly sojourn even giving us longevity to enjoy our grandchildren.

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 128:1

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 127

Psalm 127

 

-Theme: God is the foundation to any building whether it be making a house, establishing a career, or raising a family. Children are a gift from God, and having many of them is a blessing.

-Historical Insight: This “Psalm of Ascent” is attributed to Solomon, who was David’s son and king over Israel around the time of 1000 B.C. This Psalm parallels the Proverbs in many ways.

-*Application* Without God’s help, any endeavor you try is vain and unproductive. You will feel like you are beating your head against a wall. No matter how hard you try to do your best and accomplish greatness, it just won’t work unless you have the favor of the Most High. He is the One in control of the building and guarding of any endeavor that is being contemplated. This is why the Word of God says “commit your works unto the LORD, and your plans will be established (Proverbs 16:3).” This is where our own agenda must be set aside and complete personal surrender achieved. We must remember that His ways are always higher and better than our own (Isaiah 55:9). God can even bless us in our sleep when we are at rest in His will (Psalm 127:2). The key for us is to yield to His authority and trust Him with our lives and destiny. Give Him the reigns. In that line of thinking, we are to behold (hinneh- see, consider) that children in abundance is a special gift from the LORD. They are a fruit that produce future seed and multiplication of our worldview in Christ. They are to be trained up and shot forth like straight arrows into purposeful targets for victory upon victory in the Kingdom of God. If we do our job right as parents, they will rise up and call us blessed (Proverbs 31:28) leaving us unashamed and proud of the legacy with have left by the power of the Holy Spirit.

 

Verses to Memorize: Psalm 127:1-5

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 126

Psalm 126

 

-Theme: God does great things in the midst of our adversity and chastening. His power releases us from sin’s captive hold and brings us into full joy with Him.

-Historical Insight: Another anonymous “Psalm of Ascent,” but is often attributed to the exiles returning from captivity in Ezra 1 as a celebration song.

-*Application* Our God brings us back from the adversity and punishment that we justly receive in this life as a result of straying from His commands, precepts, and ways. The LORD is gracious and merciful towards us when He doesn’t have to be. It is like a beautiful dream when He revives us and blesses us despite our own depravity. His righteousness saves and delivers us from the most distressful situations when we step towards Him in childlike-dependent faith. We become glad again; we laugh, we shout, we sing, we testify once more. “Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting (Psalm 126:5).” Never forget this my friend. Immerse yourself in His amazing grace.

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 126:5

Bible Study Notes in Psalms- Chapter 125

Psalm 125

 

-Theme: The peace and protection of God’s people by the LORD. Having an upright heart for blessings.

-Historical Insight: This is another “Song of Ascent” written anonymously. Some have suggested Hezekiah as the author though in praise of the protection of the LORD against the Assyrians.

-*Application* God will protect His people just like He protects Jerusalem with its mountains all around. Our LORD is our defense. He guards and shields like nothing else. His angels are given charge over His anointed (Psalm 91:11). “The scepter (shebet- rod of authority) of wickedness shall not rest upon the land of the righteous, so that the righteous will not put forth their hands to do wrong (Psalm 125:3).” God will do good to those who are good by His righteousness forever; this is His promise. The workers of iniquity and those who turn away to crooked paths (sin) without acknowledging the redemptive work of Christ Jesus will be lead away in separation from Him (Isaiah 59:2, Luke 16:19-31, Revelation 20:15). God’s peace rests eternally only upon His people, the Israel of faith (Romans 9:24-10:13).

 

Verse to Memorize: Psalm 125:2