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The Psalms 23
Introduction: 1. The book of Psalms is a collection of 150 poems, songs, and prayers. 2. Although the Psalms were composed by a number of people over a long period of time, certain similarities can be recognized. 3. To illustrate,: a. 15 psalms (120-134) are designated as "songs of degrees" 1) These psalms are relatively brief; however, they emphasize God's goodness in various ways. 2) By reciting these psalms and meditating upon their messages as they traveled to Jerusalem, the Israelites would have been prepared for worship when they arrived. b. the last 5 psalms (146-150) are designated as "Hallelujah Psalms." 1) They begin and conclude with the same exhortation: "Praise ye the Lord" (146:1,10; 147:1, 20; 148:1, 14; 149:1, 9; 150:1, 6). 2) These psalms contain information that relates to offering praise to God. 4. In this lesson we are concentrating on the information presented in Psalm 146. Discussion: I. (vs.1-2) GOD IS TO BE PRAISED A. The writer exhorted all of God's people to praise Him (vs.1a, 10b). 1. This exhortation is given throughout the Psalms; however, praising God is not limited to the Psalms. 2. In the New Testament Christians are also exhorted to praise God (Hebrews 13:15). B. (vs.1b-2) The writer made a personal resolution to praise God. 1. (vs.1b) In addition to exhorting others, he exhorted himself. a. Note that he mentioned praise coming forth from his "soul." b. Praise involves an outward expression, but it actually comes forth from the heart (Ephesians 5:19; Colossians 3:16). 2. (vs.2) He determined to praise God and sing praises to God as long as he lived (104:33). C. While all of God's people are to praise Him, each person must fulfill his own responsibilities. II. (vs.3-5) GOD IS TO BE TRUSTED A. (vs.3-4) God's people must avoid putting trust in man. 1. A similar warning is given in Psalm 118:8-9. 2. King Asa illustrated the folly of trusting man over God (2 Chronicles 16:1-12). B. (vs.5) Those who trust God are described as "happy." III. (vs.6-10a) REASONS WHY GOD IS TO BE PRAISED AND TRUSTED A. (vs.6a) God is the Creator -- He made heaven, the earth, the sea, and everything in them (Genesis 1; Exodus 20:11a; Psalm 148:1-5). B. (vs.6b) God keeps truth forever (Psalm 19:9b). C. (vs.7-9) God is both compassionate and righteous. 1. He cares for the needy. 2. He blesses the righteous. 3. He will punish the wicked. D. (vs.10a) God will reign forever (90:1-2). | ||