Chapter Summary

The prosperity of those who live in the fear of God and in obedience to Him.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 128

1. Psalm 128:1, “Blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in his ways!” (ESV) What does it mean to be blessed by The Lord? How does fearing The Lord help us to walk in His ways?
2. Psalm 128:2, “You shall eat the fruit of the labor of your hands; you shall be blessed, and it shall be well with you.” (ESV) What does this verse teach us about hard work? Why is hard work something we can take joy in?
3. Psalm 128:3a, “Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house” (ESV) What characteristics come to mind with this imagery? How does this verse show God’s heart for how wives should be viewed and valued?
4. Psalm 128:3b, “your children will be like olive shoots around your table.” (ESV) How does this imagery promote of sense of community and closeness? How does this impact the way we understand God’s desires for family?
5. Psalm 128:4, “Behold, thus shall the man be blessed who fears the LORD.” (ESV) Why do you think the Psalmist adds an additional reference to fearing The Lord? How does this speak to its importance?
6. Psalm 128:5, “The LORD bless you from Zion! May you see the prosperity of Jerusalem all the days of your life!” (ESV) What does the Psalmist shift his focus towards? Why do you think that he takes this shift after speaking on the topic of family? How do the prior verses set us up to receive the Psalmists message in this passage?
7. How does verse five show a continued understanding that God would bring something great out of Zion?
8. Psalm 128:6, “May you see your children’s children! Peace be upon Israel!” (ESV) What is the Psalmist desiring here? What does this teach us about how the culture of that day valued being present for future generations of children?
9. After all these verses the Psalmist ends with a declaration of peace upon Israel. What tone do you envision the Psalmist having as he formed these words? Why might someone's expression impact the way we receive their words?
10. How does the Psalmist promote peace to his community with these writings? How can this Psalm inspire you to promote the same peace in your community today?

Key Words/Phrase

Prosperity, v. 2.

Characters

God, Israel.

Strong Verse(s)

1