June 4, 2025
How do the Bible and science relate to one another?
Psalm 18-23
Providence Okaalet
Big Book Idea
Worship is our response to God for who He is and what He has done!
Key Verse | Psalm 19:1
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.
Psalm 18-23
Chapter 18
The LORD Is My Rock and My Fortress
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David, the servant of the LORD, who addressed the words of this song to the LORD on the day when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies, and from the hand of Saul. He said:
1
I love you, O LORD, my strength.
2
The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer,
my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge,
my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.
3
I call upon the LORD, who is worthy to be praised,
and I am saved from my enemies.
4
The cords of death encompassed me;
the torrents of destruction assailed me;
1
18:4
Or terrified me
5
the cords of Sheol entangled me;
the snares of death confronted me.
6
In my distress I called upon the LORD;
to my God I cried for help.
From his temple he heard my voice,
and my cry to him reached his ears.
7
Then the earth reeled and rocked;
the foundations also of the mountains trembled
and quaked, because he was angry.
8
Smoke went up from his nostrils,
2
18:8
Or in his wrath
and devouring fire from his mouth;
glowing coals flamed forth from him.
9
He bowed the heavens and came down;
thick darkness was under his feet.
10
He rode on a cherub and flew;
he came swiftly on the wings of the wind.
11
He made darkness his covering, his canopy around him,
thick clouds dark with water.
12
Out of the brightness before him
hailstones and coals of fire broke through his clouds.
13
The LORD also thundered in the heavens,
and the Most High uttered his voice,
hailstones and coals of fire.
14
And he sent out his arrows and scattered them;
he flashed forth lightnings and routed them.
15
Then the channels of the sea were seen,
and the foundations of the world were laid bare
at your rebuke, O LORD,
at the blast of the breath of your nostrils.
16
He sent from on high, he took me;
he drew me out of many waters.
17
He rescued me from my strong enemy
and from those who hated me,
for they were too mighty for me.
18
They confronted me in the day of my calamity,
but the LORD was my support.
19
He brought me out into a broad place;
he rescued me, because he delighted in me.
20
The LORD dealt with me according to my righteousness;
according to the cleanness of my hands he rewarded me.
21
For I have kept the ways of the LORD,
and have not wickedly departed from my God.
22
For all his rules
3
18:22
Or just decrees
were before me,
and his statutes I did not put away from me.
23
I was blameless before him,
and I kept myself from my guilt.
24
So the LORD has rewarded me according to my righteousness,
according to the cleanness of my hands in his sight.
25
With the merciful you show yourself merciful;
with the blameless man you show yourself blameless;
26
with the purified you show yourself pure;
and with the crooked you make yourself seem tortuous.
27
For you save a humble people,
but the haughty eyes you bring down.
28
For it is you who light my lamp;
the LORD my God lightens my darkness.
29
For by you I can run against a troop,
and by my God I can leap over a wall.
30
This God—his way is perfect;
4
18:30
Or blameless
the word of the LORD proves true;
he is a shield for all those who take refuge in him.
31
For who is God, but the LORD?
And who is a rock, except our God?—
32
the God who equipped me with strength
and made my way blameless.
33
He made my feet like the feet of a deer
and set me secure on the heights.
34
He trains my hands for war,
so that my arms can bend a bow of bronze.
35
You have given me the shield of your salvation,
and your right hand supported me,
and your gentleness made me great.
36
You gave a wide place for my steps under me,
and my feet did not slip.
37
I pursued my enemies and overtook them,
and did not turn back till they were consumed.
38
I thrust them through, so that they were not able to rise;
they fell under my feet.
39
For you equipped me with strength for the battle;
you made those who rise against me sink under me.
40
You made my enemies turn their backs to me,
5
18:40
Or You gave me my enemies' necks
and those who hated me I destroyed.
41
They cried for help, but there was none to save;
they cried to the LORD, but he did not answer them.
42
I beat them fine as dust before the wind;
I cast them out like the mire of the streets.
43
You delivered me from strife with the people;
you made me the head of the nations;
people whom I had not known served me.
44
As soon as they heard of me they obeyed me;
foreigners came cringing to me.
45
Foreigners lost heart
and came trembling out of their fortresses.
46
The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock,
and exalted be the God of my salvation—
47
the God who gave me vengeance
and subdued peoples under me,
48
who rescued me from my enemies;
yes, you exalted me above those who rose against me;
you delivered me from the man of violence.
49
For this I will praise you, O LORD, among the nations,
and sing to your name.
50
Great salvation he brings to his king,
and shows steadfast love to his anointed,
to David and his offspring forever.
Chapter 19
The Law of the LORD Is Perfect
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
1
The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky above
6
19:1
Hebrew the expanse; compare Genesis 1:68
proclaims his handiwork.
2
Day to day pours out speech,
and night to night reveals knowledge.
3
There is no speech, nor are there words,
whose voice is not heard.
4
Their voice
7
19:4
Or Their measuring line
goes out through all the earth,
and their words to the end of the world.
In them he has set a tent for the sun,
5
which comes out like a bridegroom leaving his chamber,
and, like a strong man, runs its course with joy.
6
Its rising is from the end of the heavens,
and its circuit to the end of them,
and there is nothing hidden from its heat.
7
The law of the LORD is perfect,
8
19:7
Or blameless
reviving the soul;
the testimony of the LORD is sure,
making wise the simple;
8
the precepts of the LORD are right,
rejoicing the heart;
the commandment of the LORD is pure,
enlightening the eyes;
9
the fear of the LORD is clean,
enduring forever;
the rules
9
19:9
Or just decrees
of the LORD are true,
and righteous altogether.
10
More to be desired are they than gold,
even much fine gold;
sweeter also than honey
and drippings of the honeycomb.
11
Moreover, by them is your servant warned;
in keeping them there is great reward.
12
Who can discern his errors?
Declare me innocent from hidden faults.
13
Keep back your servant also from presumptuous sins;
let them not have dominion over me!
Then I shall be blameless,
and innocent of great transgression.
14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
be acceptable in your sight,
O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.
Chapter 20
Trust in the Name of the LORD Our God
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
1
May the LORD answer you in the day of trouble!
May the name of the God of Jacob protect you!
2
May he send you help from the sanctuary
and give you support from Zion!
3
May he remember all your offerings
and regard with favor your burnt sacrifices! Selah
4
May he grant you your heart's desire
and fulfill all your plans!
5
May we shout for joy over your salvation,
and in the name of our God set up our banners!
May the LORD fulfill all your petitions!
6
Now I know that the LORD saves his anointed;
he will answer him from his holy heaven
with the saving might of his right hand.
7
Some trust in chariots and some in horses,
but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.
8
They collapse and fall,
but we rise and stand upright.
9
O LORD, save the king!
May he answer us when we call.
Chapter 21
The King Rejoices in the LORD's Strength
To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David.
1
O LORD, in your strength the king rejoices,
and in your salvation how greatly he exults!
2
You have given him his heart's desire
and have not withheld the request of his lips. Selah
3
For you meet him with rich blessings;
you set a crown of fine gold upon his head.
4
He asked life of you; you gave it to him,
length of days forever and ever.
5
His glory is great through your salvation;
splendor and majesty you bestow on him.
6
For you make him most blessed forever;
10
21:6
Or make him a source of blessing forever
you make him glad with the joy of your presence.
7
For the king trusts in the LORD,
and through the steadfast love of the Most High he shall not be moved.
8
Your hand will find out all your enemies;
your right hand will find out those who hate you.
9
You will make them as a blazing oven
when you appear.
The LORD will swallow them up in his wrath,
and fire will consume them.
10
You will destroy their descendants from the earth,
and their offspring from among the children of man.
11
Though they plan evil against you,
though they devise mischief, they will not succeed.
12
For you will put them to flight;
you will aim at their faces with your bows.
13
Be exalted, O LORD, in your strength!
We will sing and praise your power.
Chapter 22
Why Have You Forsaken Me?
To the choirmaster: according to The Doe of the Dawn. A Psalm of David.
1
My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?
Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning?
2
O my God, I cry by day, but you do not answer,
and by night, but I find no rest.
3
Yet you are holy,
enthroned on the praises
11
22:3
Or dwelling in the praises
of Israel.
4
In you our fathers trusted;
they trusted, and you delivered them.
5
To you they cried and were rescued;
in you they trusted and were not put to shame.
6
But I am a worm and not a man,
scorned by mankind and despised by the people.
7
All who see me mock me;
they make mouths at me; they wag their heads;
8
“He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him;
let him rescue him, for he delights in him!”
9
Yet you are he who took me from the womb;
you made me trust you at my mother's breasts.
10
On you was I cast from my birth,
and from my mother's womb you have been my God.
11
Be not far from me,
for trouble is near,
and there is none to help.
12
Many bulls encompass me;
strong bulls of Bashan surround me;
13
they open wide their mouths at me,
like a ravening and roaring lion.
14
I am poured out like water,
and all my bones are out of joint;
my heart is like wax;
it is melted within my breast;
15
my strength is dried up like a potsherd,
and my tongue sticks to my jaws;
you lay me in the dust of death.
16
For dogs encompass me;
a company of evildoers encircles me;
they have pierced my hands and feet
12
22:16
Some Hebrew manuscripts, Septuagint, Vulgate, Syriac; most Hebrew manuscripts like a lion [they are at] my hands and feet
—
17
I can count all my bones—
they stare and gloat over me;
18
they divide my garments among them,
and for my clothing they cast lots.
19
But you, O LORD, do not be far off!
O you my help, come quickly to my aid!
20
Deliver my soul from the sword,
my precious life from the power of the dog!
21
Save me from the mouth of the lion!
You have rescued
13
22:21
Hebrew answered
me from the horns of the wild oxen!
22
I will tell of your name to my brothers;
in the midst of the congregation I will praise you:
23
You who fear the LORD, praise him!
All you offspring of Jacob, glorify him,
and stand in awe of him, all you offspring of Israel!
24
For he has not despised or abhorred
the affliction of the afflicted,
and he has not hidden his face from him,
but has heard, when he cried to him.
25
From you comes my praise in the great congregation;
my vows I will perform before those who fear him.
26
The afflicted
14
22:26
Or The meek
shall eat and be satisfied;
those who seek him shall praise the LORD!
May your hearts live forever!
27
All the ends of the earth shall remember
and turn to the LORD,
and all the families of the nations
shall worship before you.
28
For kingship belongs to the LORD,
and he rules over the nations.
29
All the prosperous of the earth eat and worship;
before him shall bow all who go down to the dust,
even the one who could not keep himself alive.
30
Posterity shall serve him;
it shall be told of the Lord to the coming generation;
31
they shall come and proclaim his righteousness to a people yet unborn,
that he has done it.
Chapter 23
The LORD Is My Shepherd
A Psalm of David.
1
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
15
23:2
Hebrew beside waters of rest
3
He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
16
23:3
Or in right paths
for his name's sake.
4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
17
23:4
Or the valley of deep darkness
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
5
You prepare a table before me
in the presence of my enemies;
you anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
6
Surely
18
23:6
Or Only
goodness and mercy
19
23:6
Or steadfast love
shall follow me
all the days of my life,
and I shall dwell
20
23:6
Or shall return to dwell
in the house of the LORD
forever.
21
23:6
Hebrew for length of days
Footnotes
[1] 18:4 Or terrified me[2] 18:8 Or in his wrath
[3] 18:22 Or just decrees
[4] 18:30 Or blameless
[5] 18:40 Or You gave me my enemies' necks
[6] 19:1 Hebrew the expanse; compare Genesis 1:6–8
[7] 19:4 Or Their measuring line
[8] 19:7 Or blameless
[9] 19:9 Or just decrees
[10] 21:6 Or make him a source of blessing forever
[11] 22:3 Or dwelling in the praises
[12] 22:16 Some Hebrew manuscripts, Septuagint, Vulgate, Syriac; most Hebrew manuscripts like a lion [they are at] my hands and feet
[13] 22:21 Hebrew answered
[14] 22:26 Or The meek
[15] 23:2 Hebrew beside waters of rest
[16] 23:3 Or in right paths
[17] 23:4 Or the valley of deep darkness
[18] 23:6 Or Only
[19] 23:6 Or steadfast love
[20] 23:6 Or shall return to dwell
[21] 23:6 Hebrew for length of days
Table of Contents
Introduction to The Psalms
Timeline
Author and Date
Individual psalms come from diverse periods of Israel’s history, but at every stage they served as the songbook of God’s people. David wrote about half of the Psalms. His role as king was more than that of a ruler. He was to represent and even embody the people, and their well-being was tied to his faithfulness. David, then, writes as a representative, and the readers must discern whether the emphasis of a psalm is more on his role as ruler or more on his role as ideal Israelite, in which he is an example for all. The historical occasions mentioned in the psalm titles help the reader see how faith applies to real-life situations.
Key Themes
The Psalter is fundamentally the hymnbook of God’s people. It takes the basic themes of OT theology and turns them into song:
- Monotheism. The one God, Maker and Ruler of all, will vindicate his goodness and justice in his own time. Everyone must know and love this God, whose purity, power, wisdom, faithfulness, and unceasing love are breathtakingly beautiful.
- Creation and fall. Though God made man with dignity and purpose, all people since the fall are beset with sins and weaknesses that only God’s grace can heal.
- Election and covenant. The one true God chose a people for himself and bound himself to them by his covenant. This covenant expressed God’s intention to save his people, and through them to bring light to the world.
- Covenant membership. In his covenant, God offers grace to his people: forgiveness of their sins, the shaping of their lives to reflect his own glory, and a part to play as light to the Gentiles. Each member of God’s people is responsible to believe God’s promises and to grow in obeying his commands. Those who do this enjoy the full benefits of God’s love and find delight in knowing him. The well-being of God’s people as a whole affects the well-being of each member. Each one shares the joys and sorrows of the others. When believers suffer, they should not seek revenge but should pray. They can be confident that God will make all things right in his own time.
- Eschatology. The story of God’s people is headed toward a glorious future, in which all kinds of people will come to know the Lord. The personal faithfulness of God’s people contributes to his ultimate purpose. The Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, will lead his people in the great task of bringing light to the Gentiles.
Types of Psalms
The Psalms can be identified according to some basic categories:
Laments, which lay a troubled situation before the Lord, asking him for help. There are community (Psalm 12) and individual (Psalm 13) laments. This category is the largest by far, including up to a third of all Psalms.
Hymns of praise, which call God’s people to admire his great attributes and deeds. Examples include Psalms 8; 93; and 145.
Hymns of thanksgiving. As with laments, there are community (Psalm 9) and individual (Psalm 30) thanksgiving psalms.
Hymns celebrating God’s law (Psalm 119).
Wisdom psalms (Psalms 1; 37), which reflect themes from the Wisdom Books (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon).
Songs of confidence, which enable worshipers to deepen their trust in God amid difficult circumstances (Psalm 23).
Royal psalms, which present the Davidic monarchy as the vehicle of blessing for God’s people. Some of these are prayers (Psalm 20), some are thanksgivings (Psalm 21). All relate to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, either by setting a pattern (Psalms 20–21) or by portraying the king’s reign in such a way that only the Messiah can completely fulfill it (Psalms 2; 72), or by focusing on the future (Psalm 110).
Historical psalms, which take lessons from the history of God’s dealings with his people (Psalm 78).
Prophetic hymns, which echo the Prophets, calling people to covenant faithfulness (Psalm 81).
Structure
The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.
| Book 1 | Psalms 1–41 | Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26. |
| Book 2 | Psalms 42–72 | Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people. |
| Book 3 | Psalms 73–89 | The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88). |
| Book 4 | Psalms 90–106 | Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89. |
| Book 5 | Psalms 107–150 | The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134). |
Fact: Song of Deliverance
David’s Song of Deliverance is nearly identical to Psalm 18. Perhaps 2 Samuel 22 was meant to be read aloud for instruction and Psalm 18 was meant to be sung or prayed as part of worship.
Fact: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?
What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God? The Psalms were the songbook of the people of God when they gathered for worship.
Fact: What is a psalm of lament?
What is a psalm of lament? The main purpose of a psalm of lament is to tell the Lord about a difficult situation, to ask him for his help, and to praise him for helping. Some laments are community, congregational psalms. Others are individual, personal laments. One third of all the Psalms are psalms of lament.
Fact: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?
What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel? The “enemies” mentioned in the Psalms (e.g., 18:17) were people hostile to the faith of God’s people. Sometimes they expressed their hatred by physically attacking the people of Israel, while other times they merely rejoiced when Israel faced misfortunes.
Fact: Selah
What does Selah mean? Although the word Selah is found 39 times in the book of Psalms, its exact meaning is uncertain. Most scholars believe it is a musical term or a term to be used by a worship leader, possibly to mark a pause.
Fact: Snares
Snares (38:12) were traps used to catch birds and animals. Some snares used ropes or nets that would be triggered as soon as the bait was touched. Pits disguised with sticks and leaves were also used as snares. In the Psalms, snares serve as symbols of danger or death at the hands of the wicked.
Fact: A helpful guide
A helpful guide. The writers of the Psalms understood the importance of constant communication with God. They knew that God would hear their prayers, and they trusted him to act on their behalf. Believers today can benefit greatly by patterning their prayers after specific psalms.
Fact: What are royal psalms?
What are royal psalms? Royal psalms (e.g., 18)emphasize God’s promise to David that he would have an eternal kingdom (2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17). David and his descendants are called to bless Israel and the nations of the world. Some of these psalms are praises, some are thanksgivings, and some are confessions of sin. The promises to David point to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David.
Terms in Psalms
| Term | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Image | A word or phrase that names a concrete action or thing; by extension, a character, setting, or event in a story is an image—a concrete embodiment of human experience or an idea. | the way (or path); the congregation (or assembly); nature (or harvest) (Psalm 1) |
| Metaphor | An implied comparison that does not use the formula like or as. | “The LORD is my shepherd” (Ps. 23:1). |
| Simile | A figure of speech in which a writer compares two things using the formula like or as. | “He is like a tree planted by streams of water” (Ps. 1:3). |
| Personification | A figure of speech in which human attributes are given to something nonhuman, such as animals, objects, or abstract qualities. | Light and truth are personified as guides in Psalm 43:3. |
| Hyperbole | A figure of speech in which a writer consciously exaggerates for the sake of effect; usually that effect is emotional, and thus, loosely put, hyperbole usually expresses emotional truth rather than literal truth. | “My tears have been my food day and night” (Ps. 42:3). |
| Apostrophe | A figure of speech in which the writer addresses someone absent as though present and capable of responding. By slight extension, an apostrophe might be an address to something nonhuman as though it were human and capable of responding, even if the speaker is in the presence of the object. | The poet in Psalm 148:3 might well be looking up at the sun, moon, or stars as he commands them to praise God. |
Structure of Psalms
The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.
| Book 1 | Psalms 1–41 | Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26. |
| Book 2 | Psalms 42–72 | Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people. |
| Book 3 | Psalms 73–89 | The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88). |
| Book 4 | Psalms 90–106 | Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89. |
| Book 5 | Psalms 107–150 | The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134). |
The Use of Psalm 22 in Matthew 27
| Ps. 22:18 | They divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. | And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. | Matt. 27:35 |
| Ps. 22:7 | All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads. | And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads. | Matt. 27:39 |
| Ps. 22:8 | “He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!” | He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, “I am the Son of God.” | Matt. 27:43 |
| Ps. 22:1 | My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? | And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “ My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” | Matt. 27:46 |
OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)
| Romans 3 | OT Reference |
|---|---|
| Sinful Condition | |
| v. 10, none is righteous | Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20 |
| v. 11a, no one understands | Ps. 14:2/53:2 |
| v. 11b, no one seeks for God | Ps. 14:2/53:2 |
| v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one | Ps. 14:3/53:3 |
| Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips) | |
| v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive | Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9) |
| v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips | Ps. 140:3 |
| v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness | Ps. 10:7 |
| Sinful Action | |
| v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood | Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7 |
| v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery | Isa. 59:7 |
| v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known | Isa. 59:8 |
| Summary Statement | |
| v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes | Ps. 36:1 |
Ps. 18:1–3 The opening verses summarize the theme of the psalm: David has found the Lord to be a reliable defender against his enemies.
Ps. 18:7–19 God in his heavenly fortress suddenly takes notice of David’s need and quickly comes to his aid.
Ps. 18:20–30 David claims that he has faithfully kept the ways of the LORD (v. 21), and thus God has rewarded him (vv. 20, 24). These claims are not self-righteous; the ways, rules, and statutes of the Lord (v. 22) include provisions for receiving forgiveness of sins.
Ps. 18:31–45 David’s rescue (vv. 16–19) came by way of his military skill, which was itself God’s gift.
Psalm Ps. 18. This royal psalm celebrates the way God has shown his love to his people by giving them the Davidic monarchy and by preserving David through many dangers (see v. 50). The text of the psalm is almost identical to David’s personal expression of gratitude to the Lord in 2 Samuel 22.
Ps. 18:46–50 David’s expectation that he will praise the Lord among the nations (v. 49; see Rom. 15:9) returns readers to the call of Abram, in whom the nations were to find blessing (Gen. 12:1–3).
Ps. 18:50 salvation. David’s victories are part of God’s commitment to his people and to the whole world. Steadfast love to . . . David and his offspring forever echoes 2 Sam. 7:12–16.
Fact: Song of Deliverance
David’s Song of Deliverance is nearly identical to Psalm 18. Perhaps 2 Samuel 22 was meant to be read aloud for instruction and Psalm 18 was meant to be sung or prayed as part of worship.
Ps. 19:1 The glory of God includes his power, wisdom, and worthiness of honor and worship.
Ps. 19:4 See note on Rom. 10:18–19.
Ps. 19:7 reviving the soul. That is, giving refreshment. sure. Trustworthy. simple. See Introduction to Proverbs: Reading Proverbs.
Ps. 19:8 enlightening the eyes. For the eyes to have light or to be bright is for the person to be alert and active (compare 1 Sam. 14:27; Ezra 9:8; Ps. 13:3).
Ps. 19:11 reward. In this case, assurance and character growth.
Ps. 19:13 presumptuous sins. Sins committed in proud disobedience to divine commands (Deut. 17:12). Such sins eventually will have dominion over the sinner. The faithful person desires, instead, to become blameless, just as the law is blameless (see note on Ps. 18:30).
Psalm Ps. 19. In singing this psalm, God’s people celebrate his law as his supreme revelation of himself. The psalm recounts the way the creation speaks of its Maker (vv. 1–6), and the way the Mosaic law addresses the soul (vv. 7–11). This calls for a humble response (vv. 12–14).
Ps. 19:14 Be acceptable comes from the language of sacrifice (as in Lev. 22:20). The singer is asking that his song be seen as a suitable act of worship before God, like a sacrifice.
Ps. 20:2 The sanctuary in Zion is the place where God especially makes himself present among his people.
Ps. 20:3 The offerings and burnt sacrifices were the means by which the worshiper gave himself to God and received assurance of God’s love.
Ps. 20:6–8 The worshipers now shift from speaking to the king to speaking about the king. They trust in God as the one who saves his anointed.
Ps. 21:1–7 These verses are addressed to the Lord (you) about the king (he), celebrating the military success prayed for in Psalm 20. The psalm assumes that the king is faithful to the Lord; it is not intended to endorse sinful plans.
Ps. 21:7 not be moved. Compare 10:6 and 15:5.
Ps. 21:8–12 When the king (you) lives by the Davidic ideal, God takes hostility against the king as hostility against himself. Thus the godly king is the tool of God’s wrath.
Psalms Ps. 20–21. These two psalms form a pair of royal psalms. Psalm 20 is a prayer that God will give success to the Davidic king, particularly in battle. Psalm 21 gives thanks to God for answering the request of Psalm 20.
Ps. 21:13 As in 18:46, the Lord is exalted when he shows his power by making the faithful king successful.
Fact: What are royal psalms?
What are royal psalms? Royal psalms (e.g., 18)emphasize God’s promise to David that he would have an eternal kingdom (2 Samuel 7; 1 Chronicles 17). David and his descendants are called to bless Israel and the nations of the world. Some of these psalms are praises, some are thanksgivings, and some are confessions of sin. The promises to David point to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David.
Ps. 22:1–2 why have you forsaken me? David feels distress because he has received no relief to his pain or answer to his prayers.
Ps. 22:6–8 In contrast to God’s past faithfulness (vv. 3–5), the singer has been mocked by his fellow Israelites (v. 6).
Ps. 22:9–11 The singer again recalls the past, as in vv. 3–5, but this time it is more personal. In effect he tells the Lord, “Not only have you been faithful to our ancestors in Israel, you have always been faithful to me.” In this light he can pray confidently, be not far from me.
Ps. 22:12–18 The singer’s enemies are bent on evil like bulls (v. 12), a lion (v. 13), and dogs (v. 16). This leaves the singer without energy (v. 14) or strength (v. 15). Compare 1 Pet. 5:8.
Ps. 22:18 This verse is quoted in John 19:24.
The Use of Psalm 22 in Matthew 27
| Ps. 22:18 | They divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. | And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. | Matt. 27:35 |
| Ps. 22:7 | All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads. | And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads. | Matt. 27:39 |
| Ps. 22:8 | “He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!” | He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, “I am the Son of God.” | Matt. 27:43 |
| Ps. 22:1 | My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? | And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “ My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” | Matt. 27:46 |
Ps. 22:19–21 do not be far off. While recalling God’s past answers to his prayers, the singer asks for relief in his present distress.
Psalm Ps. 22. This psalm appears to be an individual lament. The singer has been attacked by unscrupulous people and mocked by those who should feel sympathy. Nevertheless, he looks forward to vindication and joyful worship with the rest of God’s people. Because of its prominent place in the crucifixion story, Christian readers have found in this psalm a description of the sufferings of Jesus. See chart.
Ps. 22:22–31 The singer is confident that when God answers his prayer, he will be vindicated and will again be able to join God’s people in worship. Indeed, all the families of the nations will join him in praising God (see Gen. 12:3; 22:18; etc.). The singer’s personal story of trouble and vindication is part of the larger story of God’s redemptive work in the world.
The Use of Psalm 22 in Matthew 27
| Ps. 22:18 | They divide my garments among them, and for my clothing they cast lots. | And when they had crucified him, they divided his garments among them by casting lots. | Matt. 27:35 |
| Ps. 22:7 | All who see me mock me; they make mouths at me; they wag their heads. | And those who passed by derided him, wagging their heads. | Matt. 27:39 |
| Ps. 22:8 | “He trusts in the LORD; let him deliver him; let him rescue him, for he delights in him!” | He trusts in God; let God deliver him now, if he desires him. For he said, “I am the Son of God.” | Matt. 27:43 |
| Ps. 22:1 | My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, from the words of my groaning? | And about the ninth hour Jesus cried out with a loud voice, saying, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” that is, “ My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” | Matt. 27:46 |
Ps. 23:1 shepherd. The Bible often describes the Lord as a shepherd (see Gen. 48:15; 49:24; Ps. 28:9; 80:1; 95:7; 100:3; Rev. 7:17). Want means to lack what one needs.
Terms in Psalms
| Term | Explanation | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Image | A word or phrase that names a concrete action or thing; by extension, a character, setting, or event in a story is an image—a concrete embodiment of human experience or an idea. | the way (or path); the congregation (or assembly); nature (or harvest) (Psalm 1) |
| Metaphor | An implied comparison that does not use the formula like or as. | “The LORD is my shepherd” (Ps. 23:1). |
| Simile | A figure of speech in which a writer compares two things using the formula like or as. | “He is like a tree planted by streams of water” (Ps. 1:3). |
| Personification | A figure of speech in which human attributes are given to something nonhuman, such as animals, objects, or abstract qualities. | Light and truth are personified as guides in Psalm 43:3. |
| Hyperbole | A figure of speech in which a writer consciously exaggerates for the sake of effect; usually that effect is emotional, and thus, loosely put, hyperbole usually expresses emotional truth rather than literal truth. | “My tears have been my food day and night” (Ps. 42:3). |
| Apostrophe | A figure of speech in which the writer addresses someone absent as though present and capable of responding. By slight extension, an apostrophe might be an address to something nonhuman as though it were human and capable of responding, even if the speaker is in the presence of the object. | The poet in Psalm 148:3 might well be looking up at the sun, moon, or stars as he commands them to praise God. |
Ps. 23:3 The restoration of the soul indicates the returning of life or vitality (compare 19:7; Ruth 4:15; Prov. 25:13; Lam. 1:19). Those who are faithful to God will tend to follow the paths that lead to righteousness. This pursuit of morality is a blessing, not a burden.
Ps. 23:4 shadow of death. In a valley in the desert of Judah one can encounter deep shadows. One cannot know what bandits or wild animals are lurking in those shadows. These desert valleys are often dry streambeds (wadis), so there can also be flash floods. But even in such times of suspense and danger, the faithful can know that God is with them, and thus they need not fear.
Psalm Ps. 23. This psalm describes God in two ways: as the Shepherd who cares for the sheep (vv. 1–4), and as the Host who cares for his guest (vv. 5–6). In worship, the faithful celebrate God’s greatness and majesty. He is the shepherd for Israel as a whole, and for each faithful Israelite as well.
Ps. 23:5–6 prepare a table. The psalm now describes the faithful person as God’s guest at a meal. The enemies are powerless to prevent the enjoyment of God’s generous hospitality. For a non-Levite to dwell in the house of the LORD is to have ready access to the sanctuary for worship (compare 27:4).
What if I feel like my requests aren't being fulfilled?
Listen NowDive Deeper | Psalm 18-23
Psalm 19 shows us two ways that God reveals Himself to us: through creation and more intimately through His Word. In Psalm 19:1-6, God is saying to us, "You cannot miss Me," and in Psalm 19:7-14, He says, "I want to be known by you." I am in awe of a God who is not only mighty beyond anyone's comprehension but desires to be intimately known by me, His creation.
To better appreciate the opening declaration of Psalm 19, we must go back to the very beginning when God created "the heavens and the earth." Scientists have theorized how the universe began, and their findings often match what the Bible says about creation. From the formation of light to the appearance of life on earth, science echoes the story in Genesis. The psalmist might not have had a science degree, but he did not need one to see that God's mighty hand is in everything. We also are "without excuse," as Romans 1:18-20 reminds us. God's marvelous creation should point us to Him and His splendor in Jesus Christ, who John 1:1-3 reveals was there in the beginning creating the whole universe. God created our souls to desire Him and be in communion with Him, whether we acknowledge it or not.
What does this mean for us today? We should direct our focus toward what the Lord communicates through His Word. The Word of the Lord is perfect, sure, everlasting, true, righteous, sweet, cautioning, rewarding, cleansing, liberating, and, ultimately, redeeming (Psalm 19:7-14). Hebrews 1:1-3 reiterates Psalm 19, proclaiming that God's supreme revelation is His only Son, Jesus Christ, our Redeemer.
I can now better relate to David's question in Psalm 8:3-4, and I am humbled that the Creator of the universe desires a relationship with me. I pray that we will take the time to pause and behold His glory all around us, fostering a deeper desire to know Him more through Scripture.
This month's memory verse
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
– Psalm 119:9-11
Discussion Questions
1. Are there times in your life when it is difficult to agree with the psalmist's description of Scripture in Psalm 19:7-14?
2. What are some ways nature compels you to worship God?
3. What are some practical ways you can incorporate worship into your daily routines?
4. How could this integration influence your prayer life and conversations with others about faith and science?
5. What are some places outside of God's revealed Word you sometimes look for meaning or answers to life's questions? How does that work out for you?