Sunday, August 18 – Psalm 57, 95

1. Psalm 56 (another Psalm of David) is quite similar thematically to Psalm 57, even sharing nearly identical opening lines. Most scholars call these two Psalms (56 & 57) “The Twin Psalms.” What is the main theme shared by these two Psalms? (See Psalm 56:1-4 & Psalm 57:1-4)

2. The superscript for Psalm 57 mentions “the cave” that David fled into. What cave, and when did this happen? (See 1 Sam. 21:11 to 1 Sam.22:2 and/or 1 Sam. 24:, & Ps. 142) What were the circumstances in each case, and how did the experience impact David’s life?

3. How did David find hope and continue to trust in God during this period of extreme difficulty, when the fulfillment of God’s promise to him seemed bleak? (See Psalm 57:7-11)

4. Why should the understanding that God is “great above all” and that we are “His people and the sheep of His pasture/flock of His care” cause us to praise Him?

5. What happened at Meribah and Massah, and what was the result for the children of Israel? (Ps. 95:8 & Ex. 17:1-7) What led to the hardening of their hearts, and how can joyful worship be a prescription to prevent this?

This study covers Psalms 57 and 95, two very different Psalms in theme, tone, content, and purpose. If any thematic connection can be seen between Psalm 57 and Psalm 95, it is to be found in the fact that both call forth worship of God in His Majesty and trusting His exultation over Heaven and Earth in all situations. One other relevant connection is that both were likely written by David, that is, if the cryptic reference in Hebrews 4:7 to David can be understood as asserting Davidic authorship for Psalm 95, which is quoted heavily in Hebrews 3 and referenced again in Hebrews 4:5-9. Given the lack of connection between the two, today’s study will look briefly at each Psalm independently.

Psalm 57 is a study into how one keeps hope alive when circumstances seem to indicate that God is not with us. David was able to maintain faith and trust in God, even though everything and everyone seemed to be against him. He trusted that God had a purpose for his life and would accomplish His will in his life. He maintained this because he did not cease worshipping and praising God even in the darkest times and most challenging spots. What is God’s purpose for your life? How do you believe in God and His loving plans for you when nothing seems to be going according to plan?

Psalm 95 is a call to praise God. As such, it was one of the Psalms used to worship God during the great yearly festivals centered in the temple/sanctuary. It serves as a call to worship God for His Greatness and celebrate His loving care for humanity. Unhappily, it also warns against hardening one’s heart towards God, against taking God’s goodness towards us for granted, great and small. The Lord says, “Today, if you hear my voice, do not harden your heart.” How is the condition of your heart? Are you suffering from hardening? If so, what can soften your heart towards God?

Psalm 57 describes a situation when dark circumstances could cause us to doubt God, and Psalm 95 warns against becoming unappreciative of all of God’s loving care for us. The prescription for finding hope and maintaining faith in both situations is to worship God for who He is and for what He does. How can you make meaningful worship part of your day today and every day to overcome all opposition and/or not lose your awe, wonder, and appreciation for just how much God loves and cares for you?

May God bless you and be with you this day!