Chapter Summary

David's grief, complaints and confession.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 38

1. How does this Psalm bounce between the pain felt from personal sin as well as affliction and oppression? Why do you think David is processing both before The Lord here?
2. What kind of image of repentance does David paint for us in this chapter?
3. How does this Psalm depict the effect that harboring sin can have on your body?
4. Psalm 38:3, "There is no soundness in my flesh because of your indignation; there is no health in my bone because of my sin." (ESV) In what ways can our sin impact our discernment and soundness of mind?
5. How do we still see David clinging to hope in this Psalm? What heart posture does it present that allows him to approach The Lord so vulnerably?
6. Psalm 38:18, "I confess my iniquity; I am sorry for my sin." (ESV) Sometimes confession can seem daunting and unapproachable, especially when our hearts are heavy. How does David show us the simplicity of confession? How can this help encourage you to always go to The Lord no matter how heavy your heart may be?
7. This Psalm reminds us that when we are weakest, we can still find endurance through the promises of God. What promises in Scripture bring you endurance and give you the most hope?
8. Psalm 38:20, "Those who render me evil for good accuse me because I follow after good." (ESV) David shifts into the pain he feels from the oppression of his enemies. Have you ever felt accused for doing good? What Scriptures would encourage you in times like these? How can this verse encourage us to plant ourselves in strong community so we do not walk alone?
9. In this Psalm we see a sense of urgency from David as he makes his pleas to The Lord. How do you approach God in times of urgency? How does this Psalm affirm going to The Lord when our hearts are failing?
10. If you were with David in this chapter, how would you respond to him? How would you support him? What truths in Scripture would you point him to?

Key Words/Phrase

Bowed down, v. 6.

Characters

God, David.

Strong Verse(s)

15