Commentary On PSALMS

Psalm 6 Notes.  “An Answer To Prayer”

Type: Monologue Experience of Deliverance. D.L.
Structure: Stanza of Strains*

The first thing to call to mind is our Titles. 

After our two introduction psalms: Psa. 1-2;

 Our Titles are:
1. "A Drama of Night and Morning" Psalm 3

2. “An Evening Prayer.” Psa. 4
3. “ A morning Prayer.” Psa. 5
4. “ An Answer to Prayer.” Psa. 6

All of these are experience, inspiring prayer.

We can find great direction or counsel to our prayer life through these prayers of David.

In Psalm 3 the Type was a Dramatic Lyric: D.L. Which pictures a turn from Trouble to Relief,
Today we have another Psalm showing this turn, when we reach the answer to David’s prayer in Vs. 8.

Notice in this psalm a real mourning, much tears. His enemies were hot on his trail and he seems to be in the throws of a

bad sickness, maybe very close to death Vs 1-6.  David was a great man of praise, and the clarity of death after life in the

Old Testament, was no where near as clear as we see it in the New Testament, so David’s desire was to live on so he could

give praise to God and see his glory in this life. He appeals to God’s love and mercy for deliverance.

We see a dramatic turn in the psalm as he is assured of God’s answer to his prayer in verse 8. He declares not only that

God has heard him, but that his enemies will be ashamed, dismayed and turn back in sudden disgrace. Vs 9-10.

 May we have many such answered prayers as we face our demonic enemies.

Go over these six psalms again. Print them out, if you keep a Psalm notebook, I believe you will find a special blessing in

this endeavor.

Psalm 7  Notes

Notes.” A Vision of Judgment”

Type: Monologue: Experience with vision.

Structure: I. Antistrophic, Interlacing 7:1-10.

                 II. Antistrophic, Regular 7:11-16.

First: This Title: “A Vision Of Judgment” could be called “A  prayer for Judgment,” of course this title speaks of the overall idea of judgment we find in this psalm.

Remember this Psalm 7 finishes up the first 5 prayers psalms, Psalm 3-7. Tomorrow we will look at Psalm 8, which we see is appended, or finalizes these five prayers.

After that we will look at the next five prayer Psalms 9-13, with the appended Psalm 14. Hear is what we have covered so far:

 1. “ A Prayer of Relief” Psa. 3  (”The Drama of Night and Morning.”)

2. “An Evening Prayer.” Psa. 4

3. “ A morning Prayer.” Psa. 5

4. “ An Answer to Prayer.” Psa. 6

5. “ A Prayer and Vision of Judgment.” Psa.7

All of these are experience, inspiring prayer

Looking over the psalms up to the present one, we have none that centers entirely on Judgment.  As our Lord Jesus said, a huge part of the Holy Spirit’s work is to convince of Sin, Righteousness, Judgment. The Book of Psalms is a book of the Holy Spirit, and these three subjects make up a very important part of this book.

In this psalm we have a real clear picture from David concerning Judgment.

 The Psalmist David brings Judgment into play here because of his enemy’s pursuit, to capture and kill him, and he has no one to protect Him but God. He needs God to make a clear judgment. See first stanza.

Second, he looks at his own life Verse 3-5. Paul the apostle said: “if we judge ourselves we will not be judged.” He wants to make sure he is not the guilty party in his enemies purpose to take his life.

Third,  In Verses 6-10 he ask God for his righteous judgment on the wicked, the people, and himself.

Now in 7:11-16,  He speaks directly of God as Judge, who will judge the wicked.

The ending of the psalm, verse 17,  We have a beautiful thanksgiving because God is Righteous.  (The Judge of all the earth will do right.)  See the Judgment story of Sodom Genesis 18:20-33.

Personal comment: In our country there is a very poor understanding of God being: “The Judge Of  All.”  David being a great righteous King understood God’s judgment well. Some Americans’ do not understand, or believe, in God being a Judge, now or in the future.  But the Bible is very strong and clear concerning this. Teaching of Judgment is basic in New Testament preaching and teaching, Heb 6:2. See also Eccl 11:9-10 in the Old Testament.

We who are in Christ; Christ has taking the punishment and judgment for our sins. John 5:19-30.  But their will be a judgment on deeds.

 Paul in the New Testament knew some men’s sins await the great Judgment day, For some others, he knew God can, and would, bring a heavy judgment upon them even now. Acts 13:10-11.

 We Christians need a fresh Vision of judgment; even as we see this expressed in this Psalm.

Psalm 8 Notes.  “Man the Viceroy of God”

Type: Meditation
Structure: Stanza Form 
within an envelope.

Today we look at the appended Psalm 8 to the fives previous prayer psalms, Psa. 3-7. Here are the some of the words found in the N.I.V. Notes:

After looking at the 5 psalms 3-7, in which God is involved in dealing with human perversity; this psalm’s praise of Yahweh for his endowment of the human race with royal glory and honor serves as a striking and unexpected pleasure. You can get a tiny glimpse of this glory revealed when God made man in Genesis 1:26-28.  9:1-3.

The first thing will be to understand our Title, for this title lets us know what the subject of this psalm is all about.

The Word Viceroy: Vice, is a word that means: “In place of.”  Roy, is short for “Royalty.” So the meaning or subject of this Psalm is:  Man, our God has created and appointed to act in the place of God, subduing God’s enemies, and governing for Him.

This salvation will be fully manifested in the new world that God will create, but it begins now, All of this is part of the great salvation Christ has brought to man from, and for, our God. Heb. 2:3-3:1.

Envelope Psalm:  See the 1st and 9th verse in Psalm 8 below. These verses act as an envelope to the text.  They are matching verses. Here they speak of the marvel and praise of God for His salvation revealed in text, verses 2-8.

The wonder of this is great. Our great and mighty God, King and Maker of the Universe, appointing and enabling man; who seams so small, and so insignificant, in this great universe, a babe as it were in power an ability to act on behalf of our LORD.

 Here we see Almighty God has appointed man this great task, this inspires the psalmist to say in his opening and the closing statement: “O LORD, OUR LORD, How Majestic Is Your Name In All The Earth.”

This purpose was God’s original intent in creating man, but Adam was subdued by Satan; so now Christ, the second Adam, came to put things back in order the way God originally intended. The glory of this rest on Jesus Christ, He will delivers up the kingdom to God when He returns, I Corinthians 15:24. He will come to be glorified in his saints, II Thess. 1:10.

 The book of Hebrews goes into all this. The Subject is introduced in Chapter 1-2, then this subject is worked out through the rest of the book. See also Romans 8:16-39 also, concerning this purpose in Gods salvation.

   So enjoy this psalm, meditate, and follow it up by reading the book of Hebrews.

Psalm 9-10 Notes  “An Acrostic Anthem Of Judgment.”

Psalm 9 and 10 was probably spoken or penned originally as one Psalm, so I will post it here as one psalm.

Type: Monologue: experience of deliverance enlarged on.
Structure: Mixed Stanza.

 D.A. Dramatic Anthem depicting--Triumph-Trouble-Triumph.

This is another Judgment psalm, so reading psalms of this type will help in understanding the Judgment of God more

clearly. Psalm 7 was a Judgment psalm. The word judgment is used in Psalm 9:4 and verse 7.  This word is not used in

 Psalm 10, but we can see this thought, in Psalm 10:13,14, where we have man being called to account.

The next important point is that we should notice the fullness of Judgment is seen in most all of the Triumph part of

psalm 9 probably looking forward to the great judgment day.

 The Triumph of both 9 and 10 are in quatrains, the Trouble parts are in sextets. This change in the structure of stanzas

is referred to as Mixed Stanza. Notice this changing of stanza is uniform in both 9 and 10: Triumph in quatrains, Trouble

in sextets. This changing of stanzas is pointing out to us the textual change in thought.

Another important thing to see is that the Acrostic letters fall away in the Trouble parts, but return in the Triumph parts.

 Probably underlining how important triumph is in the life of the saint.

Psalm 9 is mostly a triumph celebration, Psalm 10 is evenly divided, four stanzas letting us see the wickedness of the wicked, therefore the need of Judgment.  Then we have four stanzas of prayer, showing us God does care and will bring judgment and triumph

for his people.

Psalm 11 Notes  “A SONG OF TRUST”

Type, Song:  Trust and Consecration.
Structure: Antistrophic with Stanza suspension.

Yesterday we started off with Psalm 9-10, the last six of twelve psalms we are looking at as prayer psalms: Psalm 3-14.

 We saw these two prayers psalms,  9 and 10, were about bringing men to account, or judgment, for their evil deeds.

 Psalms 11 today, is not exactly a prayer psalm, but it is a psalm that will help us immensely in our prayers if we call it to mind when we pray. We find David instead of running from his battles as suggested, knows who to turn to, to see victory accomplished.

  We see the circumstance in this psalm could suggest the foundation was
in collapse.Vs 3.

When we  see things falling apart according to our thought, instead of giving in and running from the situation, we are to turn to the one who has all power, And works all thing together for our good. Romans 8:28.

As far as structure of this psalm (suspension), Do try to see how the idea of the first verse is suspended but is returned to in verse 7. This may help you to see the continuity of the psalm, and the blessed message.

In the first line in the beginning of the psalm, David’s tells of his refuge, then we see the temptation to run from the battle.  His answer is excellent. We see his answer is about the one who is really in charge, and then we see more about his refuge in verse 7.

We can really benefit if we respond the way David does here. When we are tempted to run from a hard situation, Jesus has the answer. It is usually not to run, but meet this situation head on with trust in Christ and prayer.  “In the LORD I take refuge,” 11:1. “The LORD is in His holy temple; the LORD is on His heavenly throne.” 11:4.

Trials and hard situations are good for us, They test us and help make us strong. God examines the righteous through them, Psalm 11:4.

We are appointed as Paul says, not only to believe, but to suffer for His sake. In Romans 5 this  Apostle says, “We rejoice in tribulation also” then he gives the reason why tribulation is good. Romans 5:3-5.

it is foolish and futile to run, for the Devil can run faster than we can. He also he has a bow with arrows see Psalm 11:2.

Psalm 12 Notes.  “The Words Of The LORD And The Lip Of Vanity”

Type: Monologue-Experience of Deliverance D.L.

Structure: Stanza

Yesterday’s psalm was a psalm of celebration. God has provided a way of escape from falling. Showing us how not to let our foundation of Christ be moved out from under us. Let us celebrate and sing of His goodness, His love, and His word.

 Today we have another testimony, a monologue of David, a prayer of supplication with Gods answer. In this psalm we see how to the escape from lying lips.

 Some have dwelt to long among people who are deceived, or deceive others, See Psalm 120. Some have dwelt to long with the TV on, or in theaters; or reading books that unsaved people write. Here deception is portrayed in entertaining ways. Be careful.

In this psalm we can see the first two stanzas deal with this Trouble.  The trouble of 

words that come from others.  You will notice in the day we live in, more and more people have little qualms in the words they speak. They are not embarrassed to curse, or speak negative, or speak with a impure tongue. It seems as the scripture declares, men come from the womb speaking lies. Notice this verse “The wicked freely strut about when what is vile is honored among men”, Psa. 12:8.

In the second two stanzas we find Relief.  The relief God sends our way is the pure speech of the Word of God; with the promise of deliverance or protection from the harm this wrong speech can cause in our thought process, and our actions.

Her we see the need of letting the word dwell in us richly, and meditation on scripture day and night.  We Christians need to realize the power of cleansing and keeping, by the word of God.  The written Word, and the living Word Jesus Christ.

Let us pray against flattering, deceitful, evil tongues. Psalm 12:3.

Psalm 13 Notes.  “Counsels Of  Sorrow”

Type: Monologue: Experience inspires prayer.

Structure: Stanza

Here we have another experience of David; in his battles. This inspires David to pray.

He was really having trouble with his thoughts, and his emotions day after day.

He knew his enemies were triumphing about their victory. They were now making boast, and waiting for his total downfall.

His prayer to God goes through three points.

1^st.  His question to God, he is desperate. How long used 4 times:

 Read this; How long. Vs. 1-2

2^nd. His petition to God, he is desperate. His concern, don’t let my foes overcome me. Read please. Vs. 3-4

3^rd. His trust:  But I trust in your unfailing love.

                       My heart rejoices in your salvation.

                       I will sing to the LORD,

                       for He has been good to me.

Read please Vs. 5-6

David knew the covenant that God made with him, but the delay was a trial to him.

God has made promises to us, and a New Covenant. Let us trust Him in times of delay

Application for us:

I believe I can say in truth.  Although the Christian may know the truth of his justification, and rejoice in such a beautiful fact that because of Christ he is accepted fully by God, still there will be times of sorrow, when the enemy gets, or seems to get, the upper hand in our life; usually its  because we have failed God in some way. This will bring on sorrow, but sorry is meant to bring us to repentance. 2 Corinthians 7:5-13.

We must also learn, delay in our feeling of acceptance may be necessary so that we will know fully the gravity of sin and not yield to the temptation next time. We are forgiven immediately, but the joy may be slow to return.

.

 Our prayers must move us from our sorrow, to the word of God, where we are reminded of God’s love, and how good he has been to us. He sees our dilemma and will come to our aid.  He does want us to seek His face with hope and assurance. Hebrews 4:16. Trust can, and will, turn our sorrow into dancing. Psalm 30:11-12.

Psalm 14 Notes.  “Judgment Of A Corrupt World”

Type: Monologue: Experience with vision.
Structure: Stanza Triplets.

In a small summery: We have so far seen: A Meditation,  A Song,  A Monologue of experience,  and these 12 prayers mentioned below.

This Psalm 14 as the N.I.V. notes point out, brings a closure to the collection of prayers that begins with Psalm 3. Remember we divided these 12 prayers: Psalm 3 to Psalm 14 in half.  Five psalms with  Psalm 8 appended, then five more with the appended Psalm 14. A close look at the appended psalm 8 and 14 reveals a contrast between these two psalms. The 8th psalm shows the honor and glory given to man by God; where Psalm 14 shows the disgrace man has brought on himself, although there is the hope of salvation and restoration in the future, Verse 7.  Study these 12 prayer psalms diligently.

The Judgment psalm today is with vision, meaning the insight of God; as he looks down on a lost world. Or as Paul shows in the Book of Romans, all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23.

But at the end of this psalm today we have a hope for salvation; and we know Christ Jesus has come to bring this salvation to all those who believe on Him. So we can rejoice.

But this psalm still points to the condition of those who have not come to Him to receive this Salvation. And we say with David: “Will evil doers never learn”, Psa. 14:4.

Pray with me, that the Lord of Harvest will send forth more labors to bring this salvation to mankind, for in many places the harvest is white; ready to be harvested.

 Let our prayer also be “Revive Us O LORD”.

Psalm 15 Notes.  “The Consecrated Life”

Type Meditation, On spiritual truths.
Structure: Strophic: Modified envelope.

We find two meditation of the same nature in Book 1: 1st. “Who May Ascend,” Psalm 24.  2nd. Who May Dwell,” Psalm 15. David in his sincerity wanted to not only ascend, but he also wanted to live daily in Gods presence.

We can see in this psalm two New Testament truths: 1st  Coming to Christ.  2nd Abiding  (dwelling) in Christ..

Coming to Christ brings you into union with him. In union with Him we have come into his resurrected life, and have ascended with Him above. Eph 2:6.  We must now abide in Him and seek the things that are above, I John 2:28, Col 3:1.

In our position in the heavens with Him we are blessed with all spiritual blessings, Eph 1:1-3. So we can now walk in victory. 

I encourage you to read the Book of Ephesians with this outline in mind: Wealth 1-3.  Walk 4-5. Warfare 6.  Our Wealth enables us to walk. In our walk we must stand and fight.

To dwell with Christ day by day in a walk of victory, requires a consecrated life. Only in His power can we live this holy life of consecration; but it is for us II Cor. 6:14-7:1.

In this psalm we see, our speech, verse 2, and our actions are involved, verse 3-5. Drawing closer to Him in faith, prayer, and meditation, is a must.

One thing important in this structure: The opening lines and the closing line frame this psalm, This is what we call an envelope psalm. Notice this carefully and see how these
lines really add to the text in between.

Psalm 16 Notes.  “A Song Of Personal Consecration”

Type: Song-Trust and consecration
Structure: Antistrophic

This is what we would call a Messianic Psalm. This psalm is a special psalm quoted by Peter in the book of Acts chapter 2.  Let us celebrate and sing; “Our Lord is risen,” Psalm 16:9-11.

As to structure: This psalm has an introduction and Two Stanzas; The first Stanza deals with Trust; the second deals with Preservation,

The introduction is special also, a personal prayer of refuge, and protection.

The strophe stanza starts off giving proper glory to God, and then refers to God’s wonderful grace in the saints. 1:1-2:

1st. “ I said, “You are my Yahweh
                  Apart from you I have no good thing.” 16:1-2

 This couplet gives real honor to our personal LORD. “The I AM”. As James says “All good and perfect gifts comes down from the father of lights.”  Without Him we are nothing, and we can do nothing.

The second couplet gives proper honor to the saints that God created and indwells:
              2nd. “As to the saints who are in the land,
    They are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight.”

The Antistrophic Stanza reveals the confidence David had in the future resurrection of his seed. (Which was Jesus Christ). See Peters sermon on the day of Pentecost-Acts 2.

Other things are revealed in this psalm. Pray for the spirit of wisdom and revelation.

Psalm 17 Notes.  “A Prayer For The Vindication Of The Righteous”

Type Monologue-experience inspires prayer.

Structure Stanza

In this experience David is seeking for Judgment (Vindication).  We see clearly here the difference between his enemies, (the ungodly) and the righteous, (David).

Let us learn that judgment psalms are very helpful, revealing to us many things.

God does bring forth righteous judgment for He is Judge of the whole earth. Sometimes we must wait a while until we see the vindication of the righteous. But according to the Bible it will come. It will come, either in this life, or in the day of judgment ahead. Judgment is a main teaching of the Christian faith; but we must never seek it for our own selfish reasons. Dietrich Bonhoeffer wanted desperately to see the righteous judgment of God brought to his nation (Germany). He saw clearly Hitler’s evil, and the result that would be brought in, if he (Hitler) was not stopped.  He died before he saw the action of God; but it did come.

We see the action of the wicked against David here, but also their motive for living.  We also see David actions, and his motive for living. Notice the word they, and their 17:10-11,14,15. Notice the contrast in David 17:1-5,15.

I think we can also see David’s night of testing, and his morning of awakening, (subject headings)

This psalm is so important to our prayer life, are we fully trusting God to keep us from the sinful ways of living? Are we taking refuge in Christ in our battles? Do we treat our wife and children the way we should, so that our prayers are not hindered. I Pet 3:7, Mal 4:6. Are we abiding in Christ by faith so that we can bear fruit and see answered prayer, John 15:16, Wives are you submissive to you husbands I Pet 3:1-6.

Our walk with God does in a large extent account as to whether our prayers are being answered; and God can bring proper judgment, (providence) in our behalf. Let us walk as we have learned in Psalm 15, (by His Grace) so that we might live on His Holy Hill. Psalm 27:4-6.

Psalm 18 “A Song Of  Victory”

Type: Song—Experience of Deliverance.

Structure Strophic

This is a psalm that tells of the deliverance of David in a very full fashion.  As far as I know Psalm 18 reveals his deliverance like no other psalm.

The introduction starts off  telling us of the Deliverer, and the Deliverance of David from his enemies.  It also tells of David’s appreciation.

  Next, David goes in great detail, in poetic fashion, of this happening. This psalm pictures deliverance from death which had its strangle hold on David, 18:4-6. This reminds us of Paul’s experience in II Corinthians 1:8-10.

At the end of the psalm he concludes in a few, but very revealing words.

I have no doubt we have here a mighty, actual, deliverance in the life of David, See II Sam 22, where this is verified, but also I believe, in the fullest sense the deliverance and victory you see here, is at least a partial telling of the death, resurrection, and position given to Jesus Christ, found in the pages of the gospels, and epistles, of the New Testament, See Psalm 18:50 II Sam 23:1-5.

In Part III of this psalm, we see some of the principles involved in this deliverance.

In Part IV: we see in this great experience explained; a victory and life position outlined that boggles the mind. We the church should learn from this psalm that God can empower and equip us to take the offensive against our enemy Satan, and not always run, or just defend the ground we have in Christ Jesus. He desires to see Satan fall from his high place and lose his ground, by the forward march of the church.  Luke 10:17-21. Oh how we need training on humility, prayer, faith, and warfare,

 Eph 6:10-19.

The Book of Psalm tells us: The saints throughout the ages have experienced great and wonderful redemption events. See Psalm 107.

As we close let us take to heart the wonderful words: “Who is God besides the LORD? And who is the Rock besides our God?

Psalm 19 Notes. “ THE Heavens Above And The Law Within”

Type Meditation--On themes and spiritual truths.
Structure: Antistrophic Interlacing.

This psalm has two different subjects, but the unity of the psalm is in the antithesis, or the comparison of these two wonderful works or creations of God.

1st. Creation above, what we see out side of us, God’s creation of the Heavens, (this is an outer revelation to our eyes and ears.)

2nd. Creation within, what we experience inside of us, through Gods written message. (The Word of God.) the inner revelation,

The likeness and comparison of two creations by God was spoken of in years past: “He who planned that the skies should be clothed with lights, He by his wisdom is creator of Righteousness wherewith to support the best mind.”

In these two ways God has chosen to reveal Himself, and his Voice to us
These is what this psalm is all about: God’s Revelation

Another important thing is how this psalm is laid out, or organized. (Structure)
It is called interlacing because it is organized in an eight line stanza, then a six line stanza, then an eight lines stanza again, then a six line stanza again. See the interweaving or interlacing of the stanzas.

If you follow the way this is laid out, it will help you see better the theme as spoken above.

Look, and pair up the kinds of stanzas together 8 with 8/The Heaven and the Laws general revelation.  6 with 6/ Heaven and the Laws special revelation.  Also just read the psalm the regular way.

If you take time to do these two things, you  will see the exciting way some psalms are structured to help you understand the text or message better.  The two subject antithesis, can also be seen in Psalm 36 and Psalm 127:2-3.

I do hope you will take the time to really look, and pray concerning the way this psalm is structured. 

To sum up: God has given us two wonderful ways to know Him better: 1st The creation above, and also around us;  2nd The Word of God to speak to us, and change us.

May we take much time in our lives to Meditate on both revelations, In this way of action we

can come to know Him better, and  also hear what he wants to say to us.

Psalm 20 Notes. “A War Anthem”

Type: Meditation-War Reflections.

Structure: Strophic.

Our psalm today is another meditation psalm, but it is concerning David’s war battles. A number of psalms are of this category. Some of them you can pair up: Psalm 20 and 21. Psalm 60 and 108.

In a close reading of 21-21, you will see, Psalm 20 is before the battle. Psalm 21 is after the battle. Today we will give notes on Psalm 20.  Tomorrow we will try to give some meaningful truths on Psalm 21. Let us not forget that the book of psalm contains group psalms, as well as individual psalms.

It seems this psalm is antiphonal: The speaking of more than one party. Holding this in mind we can understand the 1^st strophe or stanza is the voice of the people.  The 2^nd strophe is that of the King. The 3^rd strophe is again that of the people.

First we can see the great love and desire for God’s blessing be on the King in his battles. Notice, five times we see this: May the LORD, May He, May He, May He, May the LORD.  So David had the backing of the prayers of his people. This is so important that you and I have the backing, or agreement, of the prayers of others, Matthew 18:19-20. The strength of the church from God is dependant on the unity of the Spirit, in the bond of peace Ephesians 4:1-6.

In the second stanza we see David clearly knows, and believes, the victory is dependant on God, and not man.

In the third stanza we see that the people express that all victory is dependant on God. They trust Him, and they know prayer must be answered to see this victory. Selah.

Please read this psalm for yourself, and find the verses that tie down the truth I have referred to.

Psalm 21 Notes.  “A War Anthem”

Type: Meditation--War Reflections—After the Victory.
Structure: Antistrophic.

This is the second of the two Psalms: 20 and Psalm 21
Yesterday was Psalm 20: Before the Battle.
Today is Psalm 21: After the Victory.

 They should be read together as they fit as one of the small groups in the Book of Psalms.  This psalm may be antiphonal also. 1st the King speaks. 2nd the people speak.

We find David the King, here rejoicing in God over the victories in battle.  He tells here what God has done for him through His unfailing love. David was a man who exercised great trust in God. 21:1-7.

A very important thing to understand is that David understood the Covenant God made with him about his Dynasty, or the Reign of the Kings coming through Judah his tribe. Great promise was given to David clear up to and including the coming Messiah. You can read concerning this in II Sam 7:1-17. Psalm 89, Psalm 72. In fact the whole Bible points to two special men the Messiah would come through: Abraham and David. See Matthew 1, and many, many other prophecies.

In reading prophecy concerning David, and the psalms he spoke, you need to realize they referrer many times to the King of Kings: Jesus the Christ (Messiah) If you see this clearly you will understand, I believe, better what we find in the Antistrophic stanza, 8-13.
As the people or maybe David relates the Victory of God over all God’s enemies (Psalm 21:8-13,) please notice the complete destruction by God. This completeness will be at the appearing of Jesus Christ when He comes. II Thess. 1:7-10. Many enemies of David were defeated in his life time; but the covenant promise of victory to David was to continue on forever. This can only be done by the eternal reign of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Who is called the Son of David. You can see in the reading of verse 8-10, the future tense is used.

So let us say with David: “Be exalted, O LORD, in your own strength;
                                                    We will sing and praise your might.”  Psa.21:13.

Special note: I think this psalm not only shows that good does prevail by prayer, but it lets us in on the truth that there will come a day when we will really see right is right and wrong is wrong. The wicked do reap what they sow, sometimes they do right away, sometimes it takes a while, prayer for His coming will be answered Rev. 22:20.

Psalm 22 Notes.  “Salvation IN Extremity”

Type: Experience of Deliverance D.L.

Structure Stanza.

This is a Messianic Psalm.  There are some Psalms that are called Messianic. What do I mean by this?

The coming Messiah is seen over and over in the book of psalm: but some psalms are specifically strong in more than just a portion, pointing to the Messiah. Psalm 2 and Psalm 110 are good examples as well as Psalm 22.  In Psalm 22 we can see clearly, David is not just dealing with the experience he is going through.

A close look at this psalm points strongly to the suffering of the Messiah; and the universal result, or outcome, of that suffering.  David’s suffering was never of the magnitude as depicted here, and his suffering did not, and could not, bring about such results as is seen in this psalm. So as in Psalm 16:10, which points to the resurrection of Christ, (see Peters sermon in Acts 2.)  Here in this psalm, David is speaking prophecy, of the coming events, concerning the Messiah. ( His Suffering, Deliverance, The Universal Benefit). David was also a prophet who could, and did foresee what he spoke about. Acts 2:29-32.

 This psalm is divided into two major sections. First David is speaking of the suffering unto death of the Messiah Psalm 22:1-21. Next the sufferer is seen as victorious , God has heard his cry, He is declaring Gods name and his praise to his brothers, and because of this deliverance all the families of the earth will be blessed  Psalm 22:22-31.

Follow the subject headings: I Trouble,  II Trouble Intensified,  II Relief.

A good breakdown of this psalm can be seen in the book by Walter C Kaiser “The Messiah in the Old Testament”. This is a very good book dealing with the Messiah in Psalms, and the Old Testament.

Chase down some of the N.T. cross references in a good Bible, like the N.A.S. Bible. This Psalm is probably referred to more by the Apostles than any other Psalm concerning Jesus Christ. Some things pointed to in Psalm 22: The Messiah would be Forsaken, Scorned, Hands and feet pierced. They would gamble for his clothes and more.

Psalm 23 Notes.  “Yahweh is my Shepherd”

Type: Meditation, on spiritual truths.
Stanza: with Modified Envelope.

This psalm is so rich in content, telling us of our LORDS person and care, even as Psalm 22 is so very rich in telling us of the blessing of God that comes through the suffering of our Savoir.

A common thing we must guard against is that which comes with familiarity. We have heard this psalm so much that we tend to think we know it. The result of this is we don’t really give heart in letting God speak to us through this psalm.

The first verse from which we derive our title has allot to say, especially if we understand the glory of His Name.  Exodus 3:13-15, 6:1-8. I AM. He is in Himself Complete,  Eternal. Total Provision of all.  He is LOVE.. All things are of Him, through Him, and to Him.

The names in the Bible are attached to what the person is.  God made Himself known through the deliverance from Egypt’s Bondage, and also by his complete provision in the wilderness.  He makes Himself known in and through his Son, Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord.

Now here in Psalm 23 God makes himself known through his provision as a good Shepherd to his sheep, This psalm is the sheep’s voice declaring the care of an excellent shepherd. We sheep need to understand the shepherds care  (see John 10 and Psalm 95. But as Psalm 95 says; we must not harden our hearts. Let this psalm 23 produce more of a changed life.  Remember we love Him because he first loved us, and in this psalm we  see his love. Selah

Please study and meditate on the list of things God does for us here. Here, He reveals himself and his goodness through the desert life, and among His enemies. He does reveal Himself in this psalm.

This psalm, being a modified envelope, closes with this encouraging word; that through our whole life (all our days) he will continue to be the same to us; and even more, and best of all we shall dwell in His house forever.

An excellent book explaining a good shepherd, by a shepherd, is Phillip Keller’s book “A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23.”

Psalm 24 Notes.   “Anthem For The Inauguration Of Jerusalem”

Type: Meditation-History Anthem
Structure: 1.Antistrophic stanza
                 2.Antistrophic Interlacing
                
We already reviewed Psalm 15; which text read: “Who May Dwell.”  Now we shall look at the question: “Who may Ascend” Psalm 24:3.

 We have to learn, how to ascend, before we can lean, how to dwell. It will be helpful if we look at these two psalms as a small group, that answers two questions.

We will look at this psalm today with a messianic eye:

Part 1 of this psalm shows that in this earth, there is one primary or central place; here it called: The “Hill of the LORD” verse 1-3.

Spiritually speaking the most important thing in the earth is have access to God, See HEBREWS 10:22. For this to happen we must have clean hands, a pure heart, and truthfullness Psalm 24:4, Hebrews 10:22.

Clean hands points to forgiveness of sin, pure heart is singleness of purpose, James 4:8.

 Repentance of mind toward God concerning life, and Faith in Christ brings a cleansing;
 both of these are requirements to fellowship with a Holy God.

 Notice, in the first part of this psalm,1-6, “At the foot of the Hill,” verse 1-3,
 this statement and question 1-3, is answered by stanza.4-6.

Part II of Psalm 24:7-10, Speaks specifically about how Christ the forerunner makes the way for our entrance to God, (see also Heb 6:20)

The gates swing open for Him “He is the King of Glory.”

A full study of the book of Hebrews really helps to make sense of this whole psalm.

The beautiful thing is: 1.We can come anytime into God’s presence through Christ, Psalm 24. Hebrews  6:19, 10:19-23.
2. We can Learn how to dwell. Psalm 15, John 15.

In this Second Part of this psalm we have the challange, and question asked about opening the gates twice.
We also have the answer given to the question twice, with a stronger answer given the secon time: "Thye LORD Almighty" Now the doors are raised. (inferred.)

Final note: if the notes printed on the side of the psalm confuse you, dont follow them. They are given in the attempt to help to understand the Psalm better. But do take time to try to understand this Psalm with or without the notes. Prayer for this is very important.

Psalm 25 Notes.  “An Acrostic Litirgy”

Type: Liturgy Hymn. (Worship)

Structure: Strophic

We use the word Hymn for many Psalm.  In a Hymn much of the text is given to exalting God Himself in praise, and using words of exaltation, and the Hymn it is not just speaking of his glorious revealed truths. We see some of the strongest hymns is in Book 5; like the Great Hallel, Psalm 145-150.

In this Hymn, there are two important things I want to point out right away.

First, This psalm is one of the three Types of hymns we find in the Book of Psalms.

To the three types, we have given the names: 1^st Festive.  2^nd Votive.  3^rd Liturgy. For a complete definition of these, see page257 in the back of my book.

The hymn today we define as a Liturgy Hymn.  By this we mean a hymn that presents different moods of devotion; or important things that the psalmist is bringing before God in worship. Other hymns of this type are Psalms 40, 65, 86. Notice the psalmist does not bear just one thing on his heart. He brings out three in: Supplication, Penitence, Confession.

Our Lord said those who worship God must worship in Spirit and Truth. In the psalms which we call worship psalms, truth and spiritual realities are brought forth. In Psalm 25 we have three things of the heart brought forth: 1. Supplication, (asking, or seeking God for our needs,)  2. Confession (declaring truth.)  3. Penitence (seeking forgiveness for sins in the life through His mercy and Grace.)  Study carefully the text under these three Topic Headings in the psalm.

  Notice under the word Confession, the declaration is about the great blessing God give to those who have: “The Fear of Yahweh.”

Second, We see this psalm is an Acrostic psalm, which means it is structured with the Hebrew alphabet.  Here each verse has one of these letters of the alphabet before the verse begins. In the printing here of the psalm, the English alphabet is used, for the purpose of keeping the acrostic structure before your mind. This acrostic structure is in the original manuscript so I feel it is important.

 In Psalm 25 and 34 there is a departure from the usual order of the Hebrew alphabet, as R. G. Moulton says: “Possibly the order of the Hebrew alphabet may have been less fixed than in the case of our own; more probably, the variation is intentional, and is a sort of author’s signature.” You will notice in English it is printed, the  I, Q, U, X, is left out because the Hebrew alphabet is 22 letters, the English is 26.

Psalm 26 Notes.  “Searching The Heart Before Worship”

Type Experience Inspires Prayer (monologue)
Structure Stanza/Modified Envelope.

Before looking into this Psalm, it is important to know the purpose of the Book of Psalms. It is mainly a devotional book. Worship and devotion is we might say the objective of this wonderful book of the Bible; so this Psalm, Psalm 26 is right in line with the objective of the Book of Psalms.

Psalms 26 Notes: Our Title tells the content, or heart of the psalmist here, he is in God’s house, desiring to worship. He wants his worship to be accepted by God, so he is appealing to God to search him; at the same time he is searching his own heart and making his confession to God.

We must read this psalm in the light of the Opening and Closing verses; for as I listed in the structure above this psalm is a stanza psalm with Envelope.   In his conscience David feels he is acceptable before God to worship Him 26:12, But he is a appealing to God for His testing also 26:1-2.

We as Christians must not take our worship lightly. Yes, we have access to God through our Lord Jesus Christ and his blood, But we need to realize we are to lifting up our heart in worship to our one Creator and  Holy God, as well as our Father and friend. So in our worship and prayer before Him let us, desire His pleasure and acceptance Romans 12:1.

In real reverence, humility and surrender, let us enter his presence with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Yes with faith, trusting fully in the blood of Christ, but also asking God to search us.

Psalm 27 Notes.  ”An Anthem Of Deliverance”

Type: Monologue-Deliverance enlarged on. D.A..

Structure: Antistrophic & Strophic stanzas.

The Title we have given this psalm guides us what to look for. Again we find bible structure is very helpful here: D.A. Dramatic Anthem, Triumph-Trouble-Triumph.

I Triumph: The way of triumph and deliverance is here seen in a pair of stanzas, which we call Antistrophic Structure. Count them they are in couplets: 6 couplets for the strophic, 6 couplets for the antistrophic.

The message of the 1^st strophic stanza, (6 couplets) is: Deliverance is found in the LORD. He is his  Light, salvation, stronghold, victory is assured. “Though war break out against me, even then will I be confident”.

The message of the second antistrophic stanza, (6 couplets) is: The LORD of deliverance is found in His house. This tells us where we can find the LORD of deliverance, what this deliverance is, and that he is earnestly asking to dwell there in his house.

II Trouble:  The trouble which David reflects on here, Leads off with a couplet, but quickly changes to 3 quatrain stanzas. David’s heart tells him to seek God’s face, (which he is now doing.  In this trouble part of the psalm, David is doing what his heart told him to do He is seeking God’s face in prayer. Asking God for help, guidance and protection from his foes.

III Triumph:  Triumph returns for 2 couplets. David says : “I am still confident  of this: I will see the goodness of the LORD in the land of the living”  Then He adds, “Wait for the LORD ; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.”

There is so much to learn from the Lord in this psalm.  Pray, and let God speak to you from His words here.

One last special note: In our New Testament Covenant scriptures, Jesus Christ and His Father is now God’s house, and God’s light, John 2:19-21, Revelation 21:22-23. Jesus is our Deliverance. (Salvation,) Luke 2:25-32.

Are you dwelling (abiding) in Him every day? You Can. Meditate on this: Psalm 27:4-6.

Psalm 28 Notes  “Help For The Trusting Heart”

Type: Monologue: Spiritual Testimony of one person.
(Experience of Deliverance.) D,L. Dramatic Lyrics.
Structure: Stanza

Today we have another Monologue: (One person voicing his experience in lyric form.)
These Monologues are a very important part of the Book of Psalms. There are many of them, they are testimonies of godly lives, and carry many truths to our heart.

 David tells first his Trouble (in four stanza).Then he tells of his Relief (deliverance) in the last two stanzas.

I Trouble: We can see by David’s prayer, his troubles are deep. He is calling on God with real sincerity and need. But as our Title shows He is calling to God because of his trust in Him. See verse 7.

His trouble, as is so many times, because of his  position as the King of Israel, standing against evil. This incurs him many enemies that would like to kill him. We can see in verse 6, that he knows his prayer for mercy is heard, and answered.

II Relief:  In this second section, we have revealed to us the joy that he now has. As the scriptures says: “Sorrow may endure for a night but joy comes in the morning” His night of affliction is over and the morning of joy is upon him. He now exalts God as his fortress and strength. He ends with a prayer for his people.

We can gain much light from what David goes through here. I will try to shed some light:

1st Notice how evil man can be, Vs.  4-5.

2nd Notice how deep trouble, can really effect us. Vs.1.

3rd Notice the true joy and help that we receive by going through our troubles with, Hope and Faith, 
      calling on God, Vs.1-3, Vs. 7.

4th Our God is our Rock, Stability, Protection, Strength, Security, and our Shepherd—we can hide in Him, and be assured of his love. Vs.1,  Vs.7-8.

 Pray over,  Meditate on this psalm, and remember to be thankful.

Psalm 29 Notes  “Song Of The Thunderstorm”

Type: Song of Nature and providence.
Structure: Mixed Stanza/modified Envelope.

This psalm is a song with a motivation to inspire Recognition and Worship of Yahweh.

Repetition is use in writings sometimes to drive home a message. Notice in this Psalm these important repetitions: Gods four letter name which we pronounce as Yahweh, is used eighteen times, it is used so many times we could Title this psalm: “Exalting Yahweh.”

The message of the 1st stanza which is our introduction, exhorts us to recognize, give honor, exalt and worship Yahweh. Worship Him in the splendor of holiness.

The message of the 7th (last) stanza informs us why we should exalt Yahweh.

Notice these two, (first and last) stanzas are in Quatrain structure.
The five stanzas in between this are in Triplets.
This is what we call a mixed stanza structure.

This last stanza tell us of the Lord’s glory and power, which we see in this Thunderstorm. We see God’s glory here through the power of His voice, This voice of the Lord is a crashing refrain, used seven times in the stanzas between the opening and closing stanzas.

We see God’s Voice as: 1st  Ruling over. 2nd Thundering. 3rd Powerful. 4th Majestic.
5th Breaking. 6th Causes skipping.  7th Strikes. 8th Shakes. 9th Twist. 10th Strips. 
Psalm 29:3-9. Read please.

Notice also the word glory with the word splendor is used five times.

We can see in this psalm the Lord in glory, Enthroned as King, Majestic over all; who also give strength and peace to His people. Verses 9-11.

I hope you are able to follow all this. It is very, very important to see the glory of our LORD, and the glory of His Memorial Name, Exodus 3:13-15.

Jesus carries the Name of God: Yah shua- (Je sus). Meaning Yahweh is Salvation. He is the Voice or Word of God, and in Him we see God’s glory.  John 1:1,14.

Psalm 30 Notes.  “Anthem For The Inauguration Of Jerusalem”

Type: Meditation-Historic Dramatic Anthem. D.A.
Structure: Antistrophic alternation (Three pairs)

R.G. Moulton in his commentary in the back of “My Devotional Book of Psalms,” on page 284-285 says: “Five anthems may be traced in the psalms as fitting into the historic account of the inauguration by King David of the newly captured fortress of Jerusalem: Psalm 30, Psalm 24:1-6, Psalm 24:7-10, Psalm 132:1-9, Psalm 101.”

This view is possibly true. So the Title I post on each of these psalms will be given as it is above.

David when he was King of Israel he did make some pretty big blunders. One was when he attempted to bring the Ark up to Jerusalem from Kiriath-Jearim the first time, read about this in I Chronicles chapter 13. The second time when he attempted to bring the Ark up he was successful, because he sought the Lord concerning the transportation of the Ark. This also is recorded is in chapter 15-16, of the same book. We also have another beautiful psalm written there.  (Lesson to learn here) We must be very careful not to presume on something spiritual without seeking God.)

David was a person who could repent deeply, and he realized how merciful God could be if he sought Him in sincerity.  He understood  “ His anger last only for a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime.” See verses 30:1-5.
 
In the weakness of the flesh, If you or I sin, and miss Gods will, let us remember this lesson from King David. If we repent, and seek for the mercy of God, Because of the atonement of Christ, He will surely forgive us and turn our wailing into dancing also, Psalm 30:11-12, Matthew 5:4. I John 1:9.

The Dramatic Anthem Psalms, D.A. are more expanded than the D.L. Dramatic Lyric Psalms. The text of a D.A. is Triumph—Trouble—Triumph.  The text of a D.L. is Trouble—Triumph. I record these headings over the text on the dramatic psalms.
In this Dramatic Anthem psalm, you see three Antistrophic pairs.: 1-5. 6-8. 9-12.

Memorize this verse: Psalm 30:5.  “Sing to the LORD, you saints of His; praise His holy name, for His anger lasts only for a moment, but His favor last a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.”

Psalm 31 Notes.  “A Twice Told Deliverance”

Type: Monologue--Experience of Deliverance D.L.

Structure: Mixed Stanza

A prayer for deliverance when confronted by a conspiracy so powerful and open that all David’s friends abandoned him. (N.I.V. note)

As I mentioned before there are many psalms of deliverance; but this psalm has a special approach, as David relates this deliverance experience twice:

 1^st  telling: Trouble verse 1-6—Relief verses7-8.

 2^nd telling: Trouble Intensified verse 9-18—Relief 19-24

Let us look more carefully at this for this psalm is also in a Mixed Stanza form.

I.                    First telling, Psalm 31:1-8 David tells of trouble mixed with trust, and both the relief and the trouble are in quatrain verses 1-8, verses 19-24.

II.                 Second telling, the intensified trouble, verses 9-18 is in triplets, but the relief goes back to quatrains19-24.

So we see when the trouble is not Intensified and we have some relief, it is in Quatrain form, But when the trouble is related in an intensified telling we have Triplets.

  This Psalm is truly an example of the mixed stanza form. I mentioned before, a change of structure within a psalm points to some change in thought.

Now really study the psalm and see what David’s enemy caused, and he is really troubled within, but notice also the whole psalm is mixed with Hope, trust, and deliverance. But when David tells how bad the trouble gets, 31:9-18 we find the calling on God is really intense also. Although he does say: “I Trust IN You” 31:14.

Deliverance Psalms can really help us in our reaction and perseverance in trouble, because we have examples before us throughout the Old Testaments of saints who faced like issues as ours, with faith and perseverance.  See the Book of Hebrews chapter 11-12

Jesus on the cross applied Psalm 31:5 to his own circumstances; thus those who share in his sufferings at the hands of anti-Christian forces are encouraged to hear and use this psalm in a new light. (Acts 7:59; I Peter 4:19. No psalm expresses a more sturdy trust in the Lord when powerful human forces threaten. (N. I. V. Note)

One last word, notice that David refers to God as his Rock, verse 31:2.  I talked about God being our Rock in Psalm 28; go back and reread my note on Psalm 28. This understanding about God being Our ROCK is a very real truth in the Bible and can become a real help in times of trouble, and in our walk with Christ in pleasant times.

P.S. I know you may not be used to seeing a system of structure, as you study. It may be a new; and hard thing for you to learn or pay attention to.  But so much of the Old Testament, and in some of the new also, structure is very meaning full; I believe your effort in this regard will repay you with more wisdom and understanding of the Bible.

Psalm 32 Notes.  “Blessedness Of The Forgiven Soul”

Type: Monologue-Pure Experience.

Structure: Stanza

This is a twice blessed person.  We see this in the first stanza. How can this be so?

There are many reasons why this person is so blessed. Some of them are revealed in this psalm.

 This psalm really gives us a vivid account of the person who under conviction of sin is brought to a place of justification before God, after an inward struggle. The Psalmist declares twice, this man is blessed. Psalm 32:1-2.

In this psalm we have an explanation of Justification.  Paul takes this up in chapter 4 of Romans. This man has come to the place and experience where his sins are not counted against him, he is forgiven. He has repented, and deceit no longer he loves but hates.

Paul shows that this man is in the experience of Justification through faith.

Forgiveness and justification by faith is the beginning of the salvation work of God through Christ. Paul enlarges on this salvation work in, Romans 1-8.

As to structure the word Selah is probably very important in this psalm. Notice where it is placed, at the end of verse 4, verse 5, and verse7.  This word was probably a pause in music; so stop and think about what the psalmist David is saying in these stanzas.

Now what are some other blessings in this psalm to this forgiven soul? Before we mention these we have the exhortation: “Therefore let everyone who is godly pray to you while you may be found.”  If you do this you will be saved from many fleshly, self troubles; when the waters of hardships arise and flood mankind. He will surround you with songs of deliverance. Selah, Psalm 32:6-7.

Another blessing: “ I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go. I will counsel you and watch over you.”  To receive this, again we are exhorted. “Don’t be like a horse or mule” verse 8-9.

And best of all this trusting, righteous, upright man in heart, will be surrounded by Gods unfailing love.

Last of all let us give heed to the exhortation of the last verse:

“Rejoice in the LORD and be glad, you righteous;

     Sing, all you who are upright in heart.”

Final note: The New Covenant promises that God will work within us, He will create a willingness, and give of his power to walk in this newness. Ezek36:27-28, Romans 8:1-12, Psalm 51:12,  Psalm 7:6.  Then the proper service in this newness is explained in Romans Chapter 12-15. The Gospel of this salvation is also plainly revealed in Romans 1-8.

Psalm 33 Notes.  “Blessed Is The People Whose God Is The LORD”(Yahweh)

Type: Festal Hymn
Structure: Antistrophic/ with modified envelope.

This is our 2nd hymn in Book I. The other was a Liturgy Hymn.  If you will learn the three types of the hymns in psalms it will be a blessing to you.  For there are different ways to worship God; using His word.

TYPE: The Festal Hymn is probably the most celebrating hymns of the three types. But we must not pull down the other two, in lifting up this type of Hymn.  In The Festal Hymns you will see, the exhortation or direction to worship or praise, with reasons for worship. In this psalm we can see this clearly. In the Opening and closing stanzas we see the direction of worship, and in the two middle stanzas we see why we should worship.

STRUCTURE: You will also notice if you check out the Structure, we have two types of stanzas. The opening and closing stanzas are in Sextets, (count the lines) the two middle stanzas are quatrains, (Four, four line couplets in each stanza.)  Remember, the change in structure is a signal to us that subject direction has changed.

Strophe Stanza: 4-11. The reasons to worship in this psalm are really powerful. Look at this stanza, this stanza tells us about HIS WORD, what He has done by and in HIS WORD. 4-7 Then our inspired psalmist tells us what our reaction to this should be, verses 8-11. “Fear the LORD”.

Antistrophic Stanza 12-19. Here The psalmist spells out how a nation is blessed by knowing God. That have the “FEAR OF THE LORD”.

1. God has his eyes (sets His attention) on those who “Fear Him”.
2. God watches all, He considers everything they do; and forms their hearts.
3. God delivers these from death that have hope in his unfailing love. He keeps them alive in famine.

I do encourage you to examine these notes carefully, checking them out in the psalm itself. Please take the time. Also to pray as you study should be very helpful. Find things for yourself through prayer.

Psalm 34 Notes.  “My Soul Shall Make Her Boast In The Lord” (Yahweh)
Type: Hymns (Votive)
Structure: Acrostic and Antistrophic pairs

I have pointed out three types of Hymns in my “Devotional Book of Psalms,”  Liturgy Psalm 25. Festal Psalm 33.
 Votive Psalm 34.

Yesterday we looked at a Festal Hymn: “Blessed Are The People Whose God Is Yahweh”
Today, this psalm I call  a Votive Hymn. See Title above.

I spoke a little yesterday concerning the Festal Hymn type. Today I will try to make clear the pattern of the Votive Hymn type. This type of hymn has this characteristic: The personal thanksgiving is merged in a general thanksgiving. This R. G .Moulton says is a regular feature of Hebrew thanksgiving, in what he calls the Votive Hymn.  Some Votive hymns are Psalms 34, 66, 92. R.G. also says, this is the characteristic of the traditional Hymns in I Samuel chapt. 2, and in Luke chapt.1.

In Psalm 34 we can see this clearly. First The individual blessing for thanksgiving is seen. Second the general blessing to all is seen. You will be able to follow easily this in the printing of the psalm below.

The introduction couplets, verse 1-2 point to the worship, or the thanksgiving theme for the whole psalm;  after this introduction we can see the Votive Pattern.

If you have followed me carefully you will see how in the Hymns, (special praise) psalms, we have a definite structure.

Remember in the Votive Hymns, the personal and the general thanksgiving are both brought out clearly.

 Please study the text of this psalm for spiritual teaching also, as well as praise, for this is a great teaching psalm. Pick out the main ideas in each stanza.

Notice: calling on the LORD in verses 4-6. 15-18. See the Fear of the Lord in verses 7-11, and see the contrast of fear in verse 4,7,9,11. Matt. 10:26-31.

 See also how God messengers (Angels protect his saints verse 7, we see this in Psalm 35:5-6 also. This is a great psalm (song) of deliverance as well as a worship psalm, so don’t miss this.  Songs of deliverance will surround the person that takes refuge in God. Psalm 32:7.

Here is a great verse at the end of this psalm: Verse 22.
        “No one will be condemned who takes refuge in him.”

Psalm: 35  “A Litany of Judgment”

Type: Experience inspires prayer.
(Monologue)
Structure; Stanza

 The dictionary meaning of a litany is: a solemn supplication, and this is basically the idea behind the Psalms we have listed as Litanies. Psalm 35, 55, 70, 129.  As R.G. Moulton says, the litany is not distinct literary form; but they are an interchange between a humble prayer and fierce execrations. This litany here, is asking God to move in judgment against the psalmist foes.

The important thing for the Christian to realize is that his enemies are spirit enemies, Eph. 6:10-12 and that he must use spiritual weapons.  One of these very important weapons is prayer Eph 6:18. Our Captain is Jesus Christ and He is the leader, and power, in our battles, We do have access to God through Him in our prayers. He will cause us to stand, and empower us to fight, Or else He will come and fight directly for us through angels and the Holy Spirit.  Remember, when the enemy comes in like a flood the Spirit of the Lord will raise up a standard against him.

  You can clearly see the way to combat these spiritual enemies by seeing how our spiritual fathers in the Bible fought their earthly wicked enemies, for behind these enemies were energizing wicked spirits, demonic forces. So these psalm prayers can be very helpful. The New Testament will help you interpret the Old Testament. So study, study, study, and ask God for wisdom.

In this psalm you see David looking to God to fight for him, Psalm 35:1-10 David’s enemies were very wicked, and they used wicked tactics to try to bring David down and destroy the Israelite nation. David knows full well these enemies are to strong for him, Psalm 35:10, and that he has done these no wrong. Psalm 35:11-16.

We Christian must realize that flesh and blood has no power to defeat Satan’s army out side of God, but we do have the promise that he and his army are no match for the church with God indwelling them, and fighting for them, Matthew 16:18, and that Christ people have been lifted far above them in heavenly places,  Eph 1:19-23, 2:6,  and that God is our helper.

So let us learn to pray, and know, that the Book of Psalms is a wonderful prayer instruction book, Selah.  Let us learn to pray in our battles to the Lord saying: “Come quickly to help me, O Lord my Savior.” Psalm 38:22, Hebrews 4:14-16

Psalm 36 Notes.  “Evil Unbounded And Infinite Good”

Type: Meditation
Structure: Antistrophic

This is a very interesting psalm to meditate on. The Title gives us the direction of the Psalmist. David applies the Antithesis or opposition approach. (Contrast.) The form is antistrophic, notice the even balance in rhythm of these two stanzas: 1-4  5-8.  Also he applies this balance to help us see how far evil can go, and how far our God goes..

I. Unbounded Evil: In this psalm we have a real revelation of evil men. R.G. Moulton lays this evil out in three steps: 1st  the sinner has to sin in the teeth of the remonstrance of the conscience. 2nd  Then when the conscience is dead and he sins peaceable. 3rd there is a lower depth when conscience takes the side of evil. (He calls evil good and good evil.)

Notice, In this Strophe, (first stanza.)  David reveals the person first, verse 1-2. Next he deals the persons words and acts, verse 3-4.

 This first section can be a real warning to us to break off evil at its first budding. Do not wait until it does great, or any damage. After David gives us this wisdom about the wicked, he then shows in the second stanza the contrast. Notice how infinite is the goodness of God.

II. Infinite Good  (contrast) In this Antistrophe, (second stanza) David deals first with Gods character, verse 5-6, then he reveals: His Love, Faithfulness, Righteousness, Justice, 6b-8.                                                               

We know a persons fruit; this action of the person proceeds out of the character of his heart, Matthew 7:13-20.  This may be why in this teaching on the mount Matt. 5-7, our Lord first speaks of the true character, Matthew 5:3-8.  True action is a product of God  working in the heart John 3:19-21.

III. Conclusion: Last of all is this wonderful concluded prayer, Psalm 36:9-12.  This           ending to the psalm is full of truth. Meditate on this verse: 36:9,  ”For with you is the fountain of life; in your light we see light.” God is the source of all good James 1:17.  Psalm 16:2.

Psalm 37 Notes.  “The Righteous And The Wicked”
Type: Meditation
Structure: Acrostic Quatrains.

In this psalm two couplets are joined together in each stanza or could be referred to as quatrains. The second couplet in the stanza usually refers to the first couplet and is completed by it.
 
 In the original Hebrew we have alphabet succession in each stanza, This is called acrostic, I have made this known here by our English alphabet. Follow the alphabet abc.

The Righteous are spoke of 18 times. The Wicked 14 times. To the righteous are given 11 commands. Their blessings are referred to many times. To the Wicked we are shown their end is futility.

In the first 5 stanzas we have nine different commands:
1. Do not fret.
2. Or be envious.
3. Trust in the LORD
4. Do good.
5. Delight yourself in the LORD.
6. Commit your way to the LORD.
7. Be still before the LORD.
8. Wait patiently for Him
9. Refrain from anger and turn from wrath.

Under Y in our English. (verse 37) we have a great direction we can use for this Psalm. Please take heed.
“ Consider the blameless, observe the upright.
                There is a future for the man of peace”

Psalm 38 Notes "Corruption Within And Foes Without"

Type: Experience inspires prayer. (Monologue)

Structure: Antistrophic

In these next four psalms we find the Psalmist dealing with his sins, and his troubles in life. This Psalm 38 is a pretty good picture of what we will also find in these final four psalms of Book 1.

Notice the perfect balance: of this Antistrophic psalm-- two types of trouble.

Eleven verses in Part I Internal Trouble--strophe

Eleven verses in Part II External Foes--antistrophe.

Isaiah, in Chapter 1:4-6 the prophet points out the same type of chastisements to Israel for sins they have committed, hoping for repentance and confession; but here we have David revealing in prayer this chastisement, but he is also freely confessing his sin 1:18, and asking for help, 21-22.

David also has confidence of forgiveness from God, for he knows God, 28:15.

This is a psalm that shows the trouble a person can get into by not heeding Gods word and listening to his conscience. Paul shows how far not heeding God can take you Romans 1:18-32.

Thank God for the gospel of Christ Romans 3:21-5:21 in its forgiveness aspect, we can have reconciliation.