Chapter Summary

Thankfulness for the experience of God's goodness.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 138

1. Psalm 138:1, “I give you thanks, O LORD, with my whole heart; before the gods I sing your praise.” (ESV) What kind of stance is David making here as he declares praise to The Lord “before the gods”? What are some opposing “gods” or “idols” that you are praising God before in your life today?
2. What areas of your life go unnoticed and are therefore not areas of praise? How can this Psalm promote daily rhythms of worship in all areas of your life this week?
3. How can this Psalm help you encourage a friend this week to maintain a heart of praise? What does it look like to be still and truly listen to a friend while also encourage them and build them up?
4. Psalm 138:3, “On the day I called, you answered me; my strength of soul you increased.” (ESV) When is a time in your life God has strengthened your soul? What impact did this strength have on you?
5. Psalm 138:6, “For though The LORD is high, he regards the lowly, but the haughty he knows from afar.” (ESV) How does The Lord “regard the lowly”? How does this reflect His heart to us?
6. Psalm 138:7, “Though I walk in the midst of trouble, you preserve my life; you stretch out your hand against the wrath of my enemies, and your right hand delivers me.” (ESV) How can we lean on verses like this one when facing bullying or slander?
7. How can this Psalm help you recognize things that do not align with God’s heart? How can this recognition lead you to action?
8. Psalm 138:8a, “The LORD will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O LORD, endures forever. (ESV) What rest can be found in having assurance of God’s steadfast love in your life? How can you cling to this verse this week as you rest in His promises?
9. Psalm 138:8b, “Do not forsake the work of your hands.” (ESV) What posture does our heart shift into when we are reminded where we came from? What does it look like for you to remember that you are the work of God’s hands?
10. What does it mean to be the work of God’s hands? (Vs. 8) How can this help us find security and recognize our value in life?

Key Words/Phrase

Jehovah's loving kindness, v. 2.

Characters

God, David.

Strong Verse(s)

2, 6, 7, 8.