Chapter Summary

David prays for deliverance from persecutors.

Discussion Questions for Psalms, Chapter 7

1. According to this psalm, is God passive or active in his care for us? Which verses point to this? Are we often tempted to believe God is uncaring or passive? Why?
2. In verse 2, David acknowledges that without the help of God, his soul will be "torn apart" by his enemies. Often, though, we act as if we are our primary defense against evil, not God. How does this act as a hindrance in our relationship with God. How would doing the opposite strengthen our trust in God?
3. Read verses 3-5. Do we more often pray to be delivered from circumstances outside of our control, or do we more often pray to be saved from the consequences of our own sin? What is the difference, and why is it significant?
4. According to verse 6, who does judgment belong to? Does the church today live as if this is true? How does this serve as an encouragement to believers?
5. If God will judge both the wicked and the righteous, is judgment "bad"? Why or why not?
6. In verse 9, David calls God one "who tests the minds and hearts". (ESV) How might this first seem discouraging, but upon further reflection, be encouraging to believers? Consider this in light of both the righteousness and the steadfast love of God.
7. Many people today, even some believers, live life through the lens of "cheap grace", or the idea that because of the grace of God, there is no need to strive for a righteous life, to repent, or even to receive discipline. How is this psalm a defense against this? Why should believers desire to live a righteous life?
8. What do verses 12-13 say about those who do not repent? Should this serve as an encouragement that the unrighteous will not escape judgment, as a motivator to share the gospel with those who have not yet repented and turned to God, or as both? Why?
9. Verses 14-16 imply that often the actions of the wicked turn against them, becoming their downfall. Is their downfall an act of man or an act of God? Why do you think so?
10. The righteousness of God is deserving of thanksgiving from believers. How often, though, do we deny God the thanksgiving and praise he deserves? Why do we do this? How might we train ourselves to give God thanks and praise first and foremost in all that we do?

Key Words/Phrase

Persecutors, v. 1.

Characters

God, David.

Strong Verse(s)

9, 10, 16.