The law of the Lord is perfect, for reviving the soul.
The statues of the Lord are trustworthy, making wise the simple.
The precepts of the Lord are right… giving joy to the heart.
The commands of the Lord are radiant, giving light to the eyes. - Psalm 19:7-8
Psalm 90
Learn and Understand:
God’s Majesty . Prayer and Praise . Learning God’s Ways . Coping In Times of Pressure . His All-embracing Care . His Word at Work . Time and Eternity
Imperfect as David was, David had a pure heart. Several Psalms demonstrate the breadth of David’s emotions—such as the death of Saul, Jonathan and Abner. There was also a keen sense of relief when he was delivered from Saul and other enemies. There was celebration and Thanksgiving when the Ark was brought into Jerusalem . He prayed hard for his own safety out of his emotions.
The collection of 150 songs, known as Psalms, contain songs not only by David and Solomon, but of Korah— Asaph, Hemen, and Ethan— who were assigned to the ministry of temple worship. A song of Moses is included in Psalm 90. The original collection was divided into 5 books. They can be rearranged with 5 major topical groupings. Songs of praise, supplication, and thanksgiving were a significant part of Israel ’s worship. David appointed singers to minister through songs and prophecy at the temple. All of those were built on David’s songs and prayers and some wrote other psalms themselves.
The first group of 35 are fears of one whose enemies are after us on every side. The enemy not only reflect physical harm but brings mockery, slander and lies. Sometimes the psalmist wonders if God even hears his prays and at other times give to God for having heard his prayers and supplications. There is apparent harshness in many psalms which is the exaggeration of a pursued and fearful soul. They speak of anyone who has ever known persecution for righteousness, or anyone who feels betrayed and alone in the midst of a hostile world.
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The Psalms were set to accompaniment of stringed instruments and served as the temple "hymnbook" and a devotional guide for the Jewish people. They were gradually collected and originally unnamed. It is a collection of works from many generations over a thousand years. It became to be known as Sepher Tehillim—Book of Praises. Every psalm contains some note of praise to God.
Half of the psalms are designated as Davidic — the Beloved of Yahweh, an experienced shepherd, musician, warrior, and king, all reflected in these psalms.
Twelve were by Asaph (Collector), a priest who headed the temple worship of music. Ten were written by the son’s of Korah, a guild of singers and composers. Two were by Solomon (meaning Peaceful) Israel’s most powerful king. Psalm 90 was attributed to Moses (meaning Son of the Water), who was a prince, herdsman, and deliverer. Also one by Herman (meaning Faithful) and Ethan (meaning Enduring) who were wise men. A portion of psalms remain anymous, but have been traditionally attributed to Ezra.
The psalms cover the time span from Moses (c.1410 BC) to the post - exile community under Ezra and Nehemiah (430 BC). They were written to different audiences under many conditions. They reflect moods and topics such as jubilation, war, peace, worship, judgment, messianic prophesy, praise, and lament. It is not always easy to interpret the psalms with the historical event. They should be interpreted in its historical light — but it is not always obvious. Many psalms anticipate Israel’s Messiah and are fulfilled in Christ.
Some specific prophesies in the Psalms include:
Prophesy (Psalm) Fulfillment (Scripture)
2:7 God will declare Him to be his Son………… Matthew 3:17
8:6 All things will be put under his feet……........ Hebrews 2:8
16:10 He will be resurrected from the dead….… Mark 16:6,7
22:1 Forsaken in his hour of need………………. Matthew 27:46
22:7-8 He will be scorned and mocked…………… Luke 23:35
22:16 His hands and feet will be pierced………… John 20:25, 27
22:18 Others will gamble for his clothes………….. Matthew 27:35,36
34:20 Not one of his bones will be broken………. John 19:32,33, 36
35:11 He will be accused by false witness……….. Mark 14:57
35:19 He will be hated without cause……………… John 15:25
40:7,8 He will come to do God’s will………………… Hebrews 10:7
41:19 He will be betrayed by a friend………………. Luke 22:47
45:6 His will be forever……………………………… Hebrews 1:8
68:18 He will ascend to God’s right hand………….. Mark 16:19
69:9 Zeal for God’s house will consume him……. John 2:17
69:21 Given vinegar and gall to drink……………… Matthew 27:34
109:4 He will pray for his enemies……………… .. Hebrews 5:6
109:8 His betrayer’s office fulfilled by another…..... Matthew 21:42
110:1 His enemies made subject to him…………… Matthew 22:44
110:4 He will be a priest like Melchizedek………..... Hebrews 5:6
118:22 He will be the chief cornerstone………….…. Matthew 21:42
118:26 He will come in the name of the Lord….….... Matthew 21:9
Psalms by Theme
The Messianic Psalms, though written hundreds of years before Christ, contain many prophetic references to Him. Some references that point to David also relate to the coming King in David’s family line—Jesus Christ the Messiah. Psalm 2 Messiah’s kingship and kingdom, Psalm 8 The sovereignty of the Son of Man, Psalm 16 The resurrection from the dead, Psalm 17 Christ the Intercessor, Psalm 19 Christ in creation and revelation, Psalm 20 Christ and His salvation, Psalm 21 Christ’s kingly glory anticipated, Psalm 22 Christ’s suffering and coming glory, Psalm 45 The Royal Bride and Eternal Throne, Psalm 69 Christ’s Suffering, Psalm 72 Glory and Eternity of Christ’s reign, Psalm 89 Messiah’s throne being endless, Psalm 110 Eternal King and Priest, Psalm 118 Rejection of Messiah’s by His nation’s and leaders, Psalm 132 The Eternal inheritance of David’s throne.
Delight in God’s Word, Psalm 1, Depicts the results from study and practice of God’s law. That man is happy because he is Bible-centered, prosperous, and separated from sin. The un-godly are doomed and stand out in judgement.
Messiah’s Kingship and Kingdom, Psalm 2, the first of the Messianic Psalms. Christ rejection is previewed and His deity and universal reign are presented.
Trials of the Godly, Psalms 3 – 7, Psalm 3 show’s David’s peaceful trust, Psalm 4 is the evening prayer, Psalm 5 is a morning prayer which gives courage., Psalm 6 is the heart-cry of the distressed— called a penitential psalm expressing repentance and a penitent heart, Psalm 7 is a cry for protection against cruel enemies.
The Sovereignty of the Son of Man, Psalm 8 Christ came in humiliation, a little lower than the angels and suffered death for every man.
Praise to God, Psalm 9, the Godly praise the Most High for His blessings and glory.
Prayer for Help, Psalm 10 Prayers of supplication asking for God’s divine intervention.
The Prevalence of the Wicked Psalm 11-13 When there is trusting in God there is deliverance in the dark hour of difficulty.
Human Apostasy and Depravity Psalm 14 Wickedness is prevalent. There will be a day of judgment when Israel will suffer violent persecution.
Character of the Godly Psalm 15 Fellowship with God in worship and His life follows what he confesses and professes.
Resurrection and Eternal Life Psalm 16 Christ is the obedient One whose path of complete devotion to God led Him to death and resurrection.
Protection Psalm 17 Overwhelmed by his enemies David looked only to God. He declared his innocence and trusted in God.
Thanksgiving Psalm 18 David attributed his success to God who was his strength, rock, fortress, deliverer, shield, high tower, and refuge.
God’s Wonderful Creation Psalm 19 The wonder of glory in creation declares God’s glory without the use of speech and words.
Prayer of Victory Psalm 20 A prayer of victory, with trust in the Lord rather than in horses and chariots.
Victory Psalm 21 The redeemed Israel will sing the song of victory.
Christ’s Suffering and Coming Glory Psalm 22 A graphic portrayal of His crucifixion.
Shepherd’s Psalm Psalm 23 Jesus is the Good Shepherd who gives his life for the Sheep.
Worship Psalm 24 A processional Hymn, written for the great occasion when David carried the ark into Jerusalem.
Prayer of Distress Psalm 25 David is attacked over and over by his enemies, leading him into depression.
Prayer of a Godly Man Psalm 26 Contrast to preceding psalm written in strong positive terms.
Trust and Commitment to God Psalm 27 – 28 With fearless trust in God — God is our strength in life.
The Voice of God Psalm 29 This psalm speaks of a storm of Judgment.
Dedication Psalm 30 David made Jerusalem the capital, The House of David is dedicated as palace in Jerusalem.
Victory over Enemies Psalm 31 Prayer for deliverance.
Psalm of Penitence Psalm 32 One of several psalms over repentance and sorrow for sin. Other Psalms are 6, 25, 38, 51, 102, 130, 103, and 143.
Praise Psalm 33 Praise and Joy to the Lord as Creator, Governor, keeper and deliverer of the righteousness.
Thanking God for Deliverance Psalm 34
Psalm of Judgment and Punishment Psalm 35 Over one’s enemies—God dealt with people as they were. His purpose was to maintain a nation to pave the way for the coming of Christ.
Trust Psalm 36 – 37 The Lord will help us and deliver us from wicked and evil men.
Suffering Psalm 38 Suffering because of one’s sin
Human Frailty Psalm 39 Describes the emptiness of Life which leads to self-judgment and prayer.
Praise for Deliverance Psalm 40 Trusting in God brings deliverance and a “new song” in ones heart.
Prayer for Deliverance Psalm 41 David’s recalling experiences with his rebellious son Absolam.
Longing for God Psalm 42 – 43 In distress there is a deep thirst and longing for God. Trusting mean comfort and hope.
A Cry for Help Psalm 44 Cry of despair coming at a tome of national disaster
Messiah’s Majesty and Power Psalm 45 The Messiah’s advent in glory — His dominion and glory and all those who share in His kingdom.
Zion’s Battle Song Psalm 46 There is deliverance from tribulation in time of trouble. The Messiah’s advent will take place in power and glory and the kingdom will be established – this psalm is the basis for Luther’s great hymn “A Mighty Fortress is Our God.”
Psalms by Book
- Two Ways of Life Contrasted
- The Lord’s Anointed—Messiah’s Kingship and Kingdom
- Victory in the Face of Defeat
- Evening Prayer for Deliverance
- Morning Prayer for Guidance
- Prayer for God’s Mercy
- Wickedness Justly Rewarded
- God’s Glory in the Sovereignty of Human Dominion
- Praise for Victory Over Enemies
- Petition for God’s Judgment
- God Tests the Sons of Men
- The Pure Words of the Lord
- A prayer for God to Answer
- The Characteristics of the Godless
- The Characteristics of the Godly
- Eternal Life for One Who Trusts
- “Hide Me Under the Shadow of Your Wings”
- Thanksgiving for Deliverance by God
- Christ in Creation and Revelation—Works and Words God
- Trust Not in Chariots and Horses but in God
- Triumph of the King—Christ’s Kingly Glory
- Psalm of the Cross—Christ’s Suffering
- Psalm of the Divine Shepherd
- Psalm of the King of Glory
- (Acrostic) Prayer for Instruction
- “Examine Me, O Lord, and Prove Me”
- Trust in the Lord and Be Not Afraid
- Rejoice Because of Answered Prayer
- The Powerful Voice of God
- Praise for Dramatic Deliverance
- “Be of Good Courage”
- The Blessedness of Forgiveness
- God Considers All Human Works
- Seek the Lord
- Petition for God’s Intervention
- The excellent Lovingkindness of God
- “Rest in the Lord”
- The Heavy Burden of Sin
- Know the Measure of Human Days
- Delight to Do God’s Will
- The Blessedness of Helping the Poor
Book Two
- Seek After the Lord
- “Hope in God”
- Prayer for Deliverance by God
- The Psalm of the Great King
- “God is Our Refuge and Strength”
- The Lord Shall Subdue All Nations
- The Praise of MountZion
- Riches Cannot Redeem
- The Lord Shall Judge All People
- Confession and Forgiveness of Sin
- The Lord Shall Judge the Deceitful
- A Portrait of the Godless
- The Lord is Our Helper
- “Cast Your Burden on the Lord”
- Fears in the Midst of Trials
- Prayers in the Midst of Perils
- Wicked Judges Will be Judged
- Petition for Deliverance from Enemies
- Prayer for Deliverance of the Nation
- A prayer When Overwhelmed
- Wait for God
- Thirst for God
- A Prayer for God’s Protection
- God’s Provision Through Nature
- Remember What God Has done
- God Shall Govern the Earth
- God is the Father of the Fatherless
- Petition for God to Draw Near
- Prayer for the Poor and Needy
- Prayer for the Aged
- The Reign of the Messiah
Book Three
- The Perspective of Eternity
- Request for God to Remember His Covenant
- “God is the Judge”
- The Glorious Might of God
- When Overwhelmed, Remember God’s Greatness
- God’s Continued Guidance in Spite of Unbelief
- Avenge the Defilement of Jerusalem
- Israel’s Plea for God’s Mercy
- God’s Plea for Israel’s Obedience
- Rebuke of Israel’s Unjust Judges
- Plan for God to Destroy Israel’s Enemies
- The Joy of Dwelling With God
- Prayer for Revival
- “Teach Me Your Way, O Lord”
- Glorious Zion, City of God
- Crying from Deepest Affliction
- Claiming God’s Promises in Affliction
Book Four
- “Teach Us to Number Our Days”
- Abiding in “The Shadow of the Almighty”
- It is Good to Praise the Lord
- The Majesty of God
- Vengeance Belongs Only to God
- Call to worship the Lord
- Declare the Glory of God
- Rejoice! The Lord Reigns!
- Sing a New Song to the Lord
- “Exalt the Lord Our God”
- “Serve the Lord with Gladness”
- Commitments of a Holy Life
- Prayer of an Overwhelmed Saint
- “Bless the Lord”
- Psalm Rehearsing Creation
- Remember, God Keeps His Promises
- “We Have Sinned
Book Five
107. God Satisfies the Longing Soul
108. Awake Early and Praise the Lord
109. Song of the Slandered
110. The Coming of the Priest-King-Judge
111. Praise for God’s Tender Care
112. The Blessings of Those Who Fear God
113. The Condescending Grace of God
114. In Praise for the Exodus
115. To God Alone Be the Glory
116. Love the Lord for What He Has Done
117. The Praise of All Peoples
118. Better to Trust God than People
119. (Acrostic) in Praise of the Scriptures
120. A Cry in Distress
121. God is Our Keeper
122. “Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem”
123. Plea for the Mercy of God
124. God is On Our Side
125. Trust in the Lord and Abide Forever
126. “Sow in Tears…Reap in Joy”
127. Children Are God’s Heritage
128. Blessing on the House of the God-Fearing
129. Plea of the Persecuted
130. “My Soul Waits for the Lord”
131. A Childlike Faith
132. The Eternal inheritance of David’s Throne
133. Beauty of the Unity of the Brethren
134. Praise the Lord in the Evening
135. God Has Done Great Things!
136. God’s Mercy Endures Forever
137. Tears in Exile
138. God Answered My Prayer
139. “Search Me, O God”
140. Preserve Me from Violence
141. Set a Guard, O Lord, Over My Mouth”
142. “No One Cares for My Soul”
143. “Teach Me to Do Your Will”
144. “What is Man?”
145. Testify to God’s Great Acts
146. “Do Not Put Your Trust in Princes”
147. God Heals the Brokenhearted
148. All Creation Praises the Lord
149. “The Lord Takes Pleasure in His People”
150. “Praise the Lord!”
references:
The "Chronological History of the Psalms"
'The Daily Bible'- A Chronological Guide Through God's Word
The OPEN BIBLE
'The Daily Bible'- A Chronological Guide Through God's Word
The OPEN BIBLE
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