{"notes_id":"eng_tyndale","book":"psa","verses":{"1":{"1":"Oh, the joys: This Hebrew term (’ashrey) is used twenty-six times in Psalms. Some translations render it as “blessed,” but a different term (barak) is used in contexts of blessing (5:12; 45:2; 107:38). • The godly do not permit themselves to live under the influence of sinners. Those who do not fear the Lord are wicked (36:1); they are the enemies of those who love God, those who do right, and the poor and oppressed (see 10:2-13; 37:14). The wicked might appear pious (50:16) and sometimes enjoy temporary prosperity (37:35), but sorrow (32:10) and destruction (1:4-6) await them when their deeds catch up with them (9:16). • Those who go astray (25:8) in rebellion against the Lord (78:17) are sinners; they commit heinous crimes such as adultery and murder (cp. Ps 51). • join in with: This expression (literally sit in the seat of) depicts a life in bondage to sin (cp. 1:2; 26:3-7; Deut 6:7). • Mockers hate the Lord, scorn his wisdom, and insult anyone who attempts to correct them (Prov 9:7-8). They seek only the “wisdom” that justifies their actions. These brash people have little regard for the Lord, his plans, or his children (see Pss 86:14; 119:51, 69, 78, 85, 122). These three terms (wicked, sinners, mockers) apply to all kinds of ungodly people.","2":"The law (Hebrew torah) of the Lord is the full revelation of God’s instructions (see study note on Deut 4:44). • Meditating is a process of inner reflection that can be positive (Pss 1:2; 63:6; 77:12; 143:5) or negative (see 2:1; 38:12). The Lord’s word is the object of godly meditation (119:48). • Day and night includes all times, whether one is walking, standing, sitting, or sleeping (see Deut 6:7).","3":"Well-watered trees endure and bear abundant fruit (cp. Jer 17:8).","4":"The coming time of judgment (1:5) will carry off the wicked and their deeds (35:5; 83:13; Isa 17:13; see study note on Jer 13:24).","5":"The wicked cannot abide the scrutiny of the Lord’s judgment; they are already condemned (see 5:5; 7:6; 101:7).","6":"The Lord’s care for the righteous and the demise of the wicked both demonstrate the Lord’s principle of retribution (see Gal 6:7-10). The brief and futile lives of the wicked will end, whereas the Lord and his saints will triumph (see Pss 9:5, 6, 18; 10:16; 37:20; 73:27; 92:9; cp. 142:4; Isa 57:1). • The godly (see Pss 5:12; 14:5) are joyful (1:1) because the Lord protects and cares for them, hears them when they cry out for justice, and secures their future (see 121:3-4). • A person’s path is their life and character."},"2":{"1":"plans: The Hebrew verb rendered “meditate” in 1:2 here suggests an attitude of opposing the Lord in speech (Isa 59:13) or in thought (Ps 38:12; Prov 24:2).","2":"The kings hate the Lord’s established order in the world, so they desire to be independent of him (see 36:4). They scheme about dominating the Lord’s people (31:13; see 83:1-4). Their goal is to subvert the Lord’s rule in the world by overthrowing his anointed one (or his messiah); the Lord chose the kings of David’s dynasty to establish his kingdom throughout the earth. The New Testament confirms that Jesus, the appointed and anointed Son of God (Acts 4:26; 13:33; Heb 1:5; 5:5), fulfills the role in which these earlier kings failed.","3":"break their chains: These kings believe that acknowledging the true God and his chosen ruler will result in their enslavement (Isa 28:22; 52:2; cp. Lam 3:7; Rom 1:1; 1 Cor 7:22; Titus 1:1).","4":"rules in heaven: The Lord’s place in the universe is so certain that he scoffs at humans who boast that they can rebel against his power and authority (see 37:13; 59:8).","6":"my chosen king: The Lord establishes his anointed ruler.","7":"Today I have become your Father: People in the ancient Near East commonly accepted a father-son relationship between gods and kings. In Israel, the Lord adopted kings as his sons. God set David apart as his most excellent and exalted son (89:27). All descendants of David were the Lord’s representatives or agents. As an eternal member of the Godhead (John 1:1) and a descendant of David (Acts 13:33; Heb 1:5; 5:5), Jesus is the true Son of God.","8":"In an example of the suzerain-vassal relationship between the Lord and Israel’s king (see Deuteronomy Book Introduction, “Literary Form”), the Lord invites the king to ask for favors (see Ps 21:2, 4). • All nations will be subject to David’s descendant, the Messiah.","9":"The Lord gives his anointed ruler the power to conquer the nations as his inheritance (Isa 11:4; Rev 2:27; 12:5; 19:15), breaking their rebellion, resistance, and independence.","10":"It pleases the Lord when his people submit to him and seek his protection. The wise accept the Lord’s rebuke and desire to repent."},"3":{"1":"title This sad episode in David’s life (see 2 Sam 15–18) helps readers keep the promises of Ps 2 in perspective. The Lord granted victory to his anointed king (Ps 2), but the manner and timing of this victory remained in God’s hands.","3":"The psalmist contrasts the contention of his enemies (3:2) with the Lord’s provision. The Lord is a shield for his people; he turns their defeat and shame into victory and glory.","5":"By refocusing on the Lord (3:3-4) in the midst of his crisis, the psalmist can rest, confident of his safety (see study note on 4:8). The Lord cares for his servant; he protects him and keeps his mind and heart from fear (37:17; 54:4; 119:116; 145:14).","6":"The psalmist’s peaceful confidence in the Lord’s protection and care shields him from evil and gives him a new sense of reality (23:4; 27:1, 3; 46:1; 56:4, 11; 91:5-6; 118:6)."},"4":{"1":"Waiting for the Lord’s answer allows for growth in patience and for the refinement of living faith (38:15).","2":"The opponents of the godly place their hope in delusions, treachery, and idolatry. • my reputation (or my glory): The honor of the psalmist, or possibly of the Lord, is at stake.","4":"Angry feelings are not sinful, but letting anger control you leads to sin (see 37:7-8; cp. Eph 4:26-27, 31-32). • Instead of acting on their emotions, the godly think about their circumstances overnight. They might be disturbed as they sleep, but silence opens their hearts to trust in the Lord (Ps 4:5).","5":"Offer sacrifices in the right spirit: Redirecting emotions toward the Lord prevents a godly individual from doing too much self-reflection (40:6-8; 51:17).","6":"your face (or the light of your face): The psalmist seeks God’s favor and peace (Num 6:25-26), which can transform darkness into light (see Ps 27:1). Confident trust in the Lord is an antidote to anger, resentment, jealousy, and materialism.","8":"Peace comes from God’s blessing and protection (4:6; see 37:11)."},"5":{"3":"The psalmist begins and ends each day with prayer, awaiting new expressions of God’s fidelity and goodness (143:8). • wait expectantly: The psalmist does not demand God’s grace but places hope in it (see Mic 7:7; Hab 2:1).","5":"the proud: Mockers (see study note on 1:1), the wicked (73:3; 75:4), and the arrogant (10:2) use their mouths to twist truth and challenge the faith of the godly. • The Lord allows only the godly into his presence (see 1:5). His holiness and justice do not tolerate oppression or those who do evil. • you hate: The Lord rejects proud sinners (see also 11:5).","7":"God promises his unfailing love—his covenant goodness and faithfulness—to his people (see 25:6; 69:16; Lam 3:32). • your house: The godly long to come into God’s presence with reverence and awe (see Heb 12:28).","8":"God guides those who are obedient, submissive, and patient in waiting for him to lead, provide, and protect them (27:11; 43:3; 143:10), not those who expect God simply to endorse their own decisions. • Following the right path of wisdom leads to the Lord (27:11; 61:2; 139:24).","10":"The psalmist prays for the justice and retribution that God promised against the wicked (1:6)—those who have rebelled against the Lord. • The wicked lay traps to kill (38:12) or deceive (140:4-5).","11":"A blessing rests on all who take refuge in God (see 18:30). • Joy and praise make good companions. The godly rejoice when they see evidence of God’s rescue. They sing joyful praises as a new song (see 33:3). When the Lord restores peace to this world, puts down evil, and rewards the righteous, they will have lasting joy (9:2-4; 53:6; 90:14-15; 118:24). • The children of God, who find refuge in him, love his name. To love his name is to love his very character.","12":"The psalmist extends his concern beyond himself to all the godly. • A shield, here an image of God’s protection, deflects spears and arrows from its bearer."},"6":{"1":"don’t rebuke me . . . or discipline me: The psalmist does not explicitly connect God’s discipline with sin here (cp. 39:8-11), but it might be implied.","5":"from the grave? Hebrew from Sheol? In the Old Testament, Sheol is the abode of the dead. It is not necessarily associated with punishment."},"7":{"0":"title Cush, an unknown person of the tribe of Benjamin, remained hostile to David.","1":"Persecutors (a common term for “enemies”) intentionally seek out people in order to destroy them (31:15; 56:1-2; 71:11; 143:3).","2":"Like a lion, a wicked enemy relentlessly and violently pursues its prey (10:9; 17:12; 22:13, 21; 35:17; 57:4), but God promises victory (91:13).","3":"The psalmist does not claim to be without sin, but he knows that he does not deserve the brutal attacks of his opponents (see 35:7).","5":"trample: Cp. 44:5; 60:12; 91:13; 108:13. • into the ground . . . in the dust: Disgrace and shame can lead to death and the grave (143:3; see 13:3-4).","6":"God’s judgment brings justice, despite the chaos created by adversaries (see 7:11).","8":"The judgment is against the defendants (the nations) and in favor of the righteous plaintiff (the psalmist; see 43:1). • Although not innocent of all sin, the psalmist is a person of authentic integrity (see 15:2; 25:21; 41:12; 78:72; cp. Job 1:1, 8; 9:20, 22).","9":"God examines the mind and heart of each person (see 11:3-4; 26:2; 139:1, 23).","11":"The honest Lord cannot be bought or bribed, nor does he abuse his power (9:4; cp. 82:1-8).","14":"Evil begins with small words or steps, and gives birth to increasingly worse deeds as time goes on (see Isa 59:4-5).","17":"I will thank . . . sing praise: The laments in Pss 3–7 usually move from lament to praise, as does the Psalter as a whole. • Most High: This is an ancient designation for God (see Gen 14:19). • God is just and reliable, so his order prevails in this world."},"8":{"1":"The Lord (Hebrew Yahweh), the covenant God of Israel (Exod 3:15), also holds the title of Lord (Hebrew ’adonay), the king of the earth. • The word translated majestic (sometimes translated “mighty”) can describe kings (Ps 136:18), heroes (16:3), mountains (76:4), or waves breaking on the seashore (93:4). While all are awe-inspiring and mighty, the created order pales in comparison with the Lord. • A person’s name embodies their reputation. • The earth and the heavens reveal the Lord’s splendor. All creation worships and praises the Lord (66:4; 113:3; 145:21).","2":"silencing: The loud noise of the oppressors contrasts with the praise of God. In the end, the praise of God will overwhelm the sound of evil (31:18; 63:11; 101:5; 143:12). • Those who oppose God seethe with vindictive anger (2:1-3; 44:16; cp. 149:6-7).","3":"The nations around Israel worshiped heavenly objects as deities. The sun, moon, and stars are indeed immense and glorious, but they are merely the work of your fingers, a reason to praise the Almighty.","4":"human beings (literally son of Adam): The Hebrew idiom son of man (or son of Adam) means a human being. Through the influence of Dan 7:13-14, it became a title with divine overtones in the New Testament. See Heb 2:6-8, where this passage is quoted.","5":"Yet you made them only a little lower than God: Humans bear God’s image; the Lord has endowed humans with dignity and charged them to rule (Gen 1:26-27). Hebrews 2:6-8 applies these words to Jesus Christ, the ideal human who fully realized God’s purposes.","6":"gave them charge of everything: The psalmist is still referring to humans in general. Paul applies these words to Jesus as the perfect man who has made the created order—even death (1 Cor 15:25-27)—subject to God and his glory. The New Testament connects these themes of creation and salvation with Jesus Christ (John 1:1-2, 14; Col 1:16)."},"9":{"0":"title This psalm was originally sung to the tune “Death of the Son,” but that tune is no longer known. So also with the tunes mentioned in Pss 22, 45, 56–60, 69, 75, and 80.","1":"The verb translated praise is translated “thank” in 7:17, suggesting a close connection between Pss 7 and 9 (see 7:17; 8:1-2). With all my heart expresses the psalmist’s deep devotion and commitment (86:12; 111:1; 119:10; 138:1). • I will tell: These stories educate the next generation (78:4; 145:4); when they are not remembered, a generation might easily depart from the Lord (78:11, 32). • The marvelous things include the Lord’s judgments on the enemies of his people (9:4) and his care for the oppressed (9:9). The wonders in creation, in redemption, and in revelation reveal his character and show his power (89:5; 111:4; 119:18, 27). His powerful manifestations evoke public praise (9:1; 26:7; 75:1).","2":"filled with joy . . . sing praises: The psalmist often connects joy with praises, as one leads to the other (5:11-12; 32:11; 67:4; 90:14; 92:4).","3":"retreated . . . staggered: The Lord overpowers even powerful enemies (see 27:2). Israel also experienced judgment when it resisted the Lord (107:12).","4":"The throne represents the Lord’s royal authority.","5":"God created the heavens and the earth with a word (Gen 1), and he can bring nations to an end with a word (see Ps 2:5). Evil and those who do evil will come to an absolute end (69:28; 109:13; Rev 21:4).","9":"The Lord provides shelter in dangerous circumstances and refuge from powerful and oppressive people. The Psalter includes many similar images of the Lord, such as fortress (18:2; 31:2), rock (18:2; 42:9), strength (18:1), and strong tower (144:2). These images occur frequently in the royal prayers (see 9:9; 18:30). • Even oppressed, afflicted, and marginalized people (10:17; 74:21) can enjoy divine protection. • The times of trouble (10:1; 20:1) stand in contrast with appointed times when the Lord openly bestows his favor upon the afflicted (69:13; 102:13; see Ps 107:6).","10":"Alienation from the Lord might be part of an individual’s experience (22:1; 42:9; 119:8), yet the psalms affirm that the Lord will not abandon his people (16:10; 37:25, 28).","11":"The psalm writers often connect the idea that God reigns (or sits, or is enthroned) with a place, such as heaven (2:4; see 47:9), Jerusalem, “between the cherubim” (80:1; 99:1), “on high” (113:5), or “at my right hand” (110:1). Since the Lord rules the world, all people must know of his unforgettable deeds of salvation (see 9:1; 64:9; 66:16; 105:1).","12":"The Lord avenges and saves his servants (18:46) by righteously judging his enemies on earth (58:11). The godly do not seek revenge; they wait for the Lord to vindicate them (94:1-2; Deut 32:35; Rom 12:19).","18":"Hope requires waiting for the Lord’s rescue or justice (25:3, 5, 21). The godly find hope, rest, and quietness as they await the Lord (see 1:6; 27:14)."},"10":{"1":"The opening questions set the mood. The Lord does not seem to hear the prayers of his people (22:1, 19; see 2 Kgs 4:27; Isa 1:15).","2":"The wicked brazenly defy God with their acts and speech (17:10; 31:18; 59:12; 73:8; 123:4). Although the Lord will deal with them (31:23), they disturb the righteous (see 5:4-6) prior to their condemnation and judgment.","3":"Unlike those who have evil desires, the godly wait for justice (10:17).","4":"God is dead: See 10:11; 14:1.","8":"The wicked rely on outright violence (11:5; 37:32) and deception (Prov 12:6; 23:27-28).","14":"Because the Lord cares for the afflicted, he will take note and punish evildoers (see 72:14; 116:15).","15":"The psalmist strongly invokes a curse as he prays (see “Prayers for Vengeance” Theme Note). • Arms represent an ability to wage war (18:34; 44:3).","16":"As the true and just king, God will bring the wicked to an end, as he promises (1:6).","18":"Mere people misuse their power and enslave the very people God wants them to serve (see 9:19-20; Luke 22:25-26)."},"11":{"1":"God provides protection (or refuge; see 5:11; 9:9; 25:20) when the foundations of justice collapse. • The mountains provide another place of refuge (see 121:1).","2":"The wicked live in the shadows and create gloom for the godly (82:5; 139:11; 143:3; Prov 4:19).","3":"The wicked create a world of darkness (see 82:5).","4":"The righteous King rules from heaven, where his throne is untouched by human corruption (see 2:4). He examines everyone and sees everything that happens on earth (see 14:2-3).","5":"hates: See 5:4-6; Prov 6:16-18. • Wicked deeds result in destruction and violence (Pss 58:2; 73:6; 74:20).","6":"God rained blazing coals and burning sulfur on Sodom and Gomorrah (Gen 19) as symbols of judgment (Pss 18:8; 120:4; 140:10).","7":"The godly are assured of the Lord’s favorable presence when they see his face (see 23:6)."},"12":{"4":"The words they say reveal the character of the wicked. They deceive and overpower the godly and arrogantly question the Lord’s purposes.","6":"The godly can rely on the Lord’s promises, but not on the lies of the wicked (12:2-4). • Seven times means totally or completely."},"13":{"2":"A sense of anguish and sorrow closes off any perspective of hope (6:3). Unless the Lord answers the psalmist’s prayers (22:1), death seems inescapable, torturous, and slow (6:6; 32:3; 55:4; 61:2; 102:5; 116:3). The psalmist hardly knows how to pray; he longs for God’s redemption (25:17-18; 31:10; 38:8; 39:2).","3":"The psalmist’s affliction feels like death (22:15; 55:4; 88:15; 94:17; 116:3)."},"14":{"1":"Also known as fools, the wicked speak to themselves, think, scheme (10:4, 6, 11), and make claims; however, because they do not heed God’s revelation, they possess no understanding (14:1; 39:8; 53:1; 74:18, 22).","4":"The evil live at the expense of others (27:2; 44:11; 53:4; see Isa 5:8) and have no reverence or knowledge of God (Ps 79:6).","5":"Though the wicked perish (1:5-6), God is with the godly.","7":"The psalmist prays for the renewal of God’s relationship with his people. • Jacob is a synonym for Israel (see Gen 35:9-10)."},"15":{"1":"Only the godly may reside in the Lord’s presence (5:4). As his guests, they experience his hospitality and protection. • sanctuary (or tent): In David’s time, God’s sanctuary was a tent (the Tabernacle; see 1 Sam 21:6; 2 Sam 6:17; 7:6; 12:20; 1 Chr 6:32).","2":"The godly speak truthfully and act faithfully in their relationships. Unlike the wicked, they are open and transparent (12:2-4).","5":"The Lord prohibited Israel from charging interest to people in need (Exod 22:25-27). • The assurance of God’s presence keeps the godly from destruction (Pss 16:8; 46:5; 125:1). Their circumstances might shake them temporarily, but they ultimately stand firm (30:6; 94:18; 112:6)."},"16":{"1":"The psalmist feels safe because the Lord alone offers security (16:5-6), guidance (16:7-8), and the joy of his presence (16:9-11).","2":"I said to the Lord: The various writers of the psalms pray, lament, and praise the Lord throughout the Psalter, and the Lord answers them (see 12:5-6).","4":"The psalmist dissociates himself from ungodly worship, rituals, and words (see 15:3-5).","5":"The cup of blessing represents God’s provision for all the psalmist’s needs (23:5; see 116:13; cp. 75:8; Isa 51:17).","6":"The land is God’s gift for his people (Deut 18:8).","10":"The psalmist expresses his confidence that life continues beyond death. The apostles applied this text to the resurrection of Jesus (Acts 2:25-33; 13:35).","11":"with you: See 16:7-8; 110:1."},"17":{"1":"comes from honest lips: Deception characterizes the wicked. The godly reject such deceit as a failure of character and pray for rescue from such people (5:6; 43:1; 120:2). They love honesty, truth, and integrity (15:2-3; 24:4; 101:7).","3":"Though he is not perfect, the psalmist commits himself to the Lord. He does not want to sin through deception, flattery, or gossip (see 10:7; 15:2-3; 17:1).","8":"as you would guard your own eyes (literally as the pupil of your eye): This metaphor expresses God’s care and affection for the psalmist (see Deut 32:10). • The shadow of God’s wings is a place of his protection from enemies and adversity (Pss 36:7; 57:1; 61:4; 63:7; 91:4).","15":"see you face to face: The psalmist does not allow temporary concerns raised by adversaries to stand in the way of his experiencing a real and lasting relationship with the Lord."},"18":{"1":"title David was a faithful servant of the Lord, charged with the responsibility of establishing God’s kingdom on earth (see 78:70; 132:10; 144:10). • The Lord rescued David from all his enemies when he enabled David to conquer them (see 2 Sam 8:1-14).","2":"A shield is an image of protection, salvation, and victory (7:10; 18:2, 30, 35; 84:11; 91:4; 115:9, 10, 11; 119:114; 144:2). It evokes a response of trust, waiting, and godly confidence.","3":"God deserves praise for his greatness and faithfulness (48:1; 96:4; 145:3).","6":"God dwells in his sanctuary, the heavenly temple (102:19; see 14:2-3). He knows everything, sees everyone, and will vindicate the godly (see 11:3-7).","7":"The destabilization of the whole earth will be a means of God’s judgment (77:17-18; 96:9; 97:4; 99:1; 104:32; Isa 29:6; Mic 1:3-4; Nah 1:2-6; Hag 2:7, 21).","8":"his nostrils . . . his mouth: The psalmist likens God to an angry person or a fierce creature (see Job 41:12-22). • The terrifying images of smoke, flames, and glowing coals express God’s wrath against sin.","10":"a mighty angelic being (Hebrew a cherub): See study notes on 1 Chr 28:18; 2 Chr 3:10-13.","19":"Because God loves and delights in the psalmist (see 18:1), he will save him (37:23; 41:11; 91:14-16).","21":"kept the ways of the Lord: The psalmist faithfully obeys God’s instructions (see 25:8-10). • not turned . . . to follow evil: The psalmist rejects the way of folly (see Pss 1 and 14) and chooses the way of wisdom (see Pss 1 and 15).","26":"The pure have clean hands (see 18:20-24). • to the crooked you show yourself shrewd: The Lord knows each person’s character, and he justly responds to them in kind.","27":"proud: The Lord hates pride (101:5; 131:1; see Prov 6:16-17; 21:4; 30:13).","28":"light a lamp: The Lord renews the psalmist’s life, helping him overcome the darkness of adversity (see Pss 112:4; 119:105).","29":"scale any wall: God helps his servants fight their battles.","30":"perfect: God’s character has integrity (see 18:26). • God promises to protect his people, and he does so. • Seeking God’s protection entails trust and faith. Regardless of his feelings or external circumstances, the psalmist makes a deep commitment to the Lord. He experiences joy (5:11; 64:10) as he awaits the Lord’s rescue (57:1).","36":"A wide path represents freedom and safety (see 4:8; 119:35).","40":"Placing a foot on the necks of the enemy represents total victory (see Josh 10:23-26).","47":"God vindicates his servant and so fulfills his mission (Ps 2; see 47:3; 144:2).","49":"The psalmist’s vision of praise . . . among the nations motivated Paul in his mission to the Gentiles (Rom 15:9).","50":"God appointed David, his anointed ruler, to bring order into God’s world (see Ps 2). Both David and his descendants received this responsibility."},"19":{"1":"The glory of God refers to the splendor or manifest presence of the Creator (113:4). • God (Hebrew ’el): El is an ancient designation for God that signifies his creative power.","13":"An individual who commits deliberate sins does so with an insolent (86:14) or arrogant (119:21, 69) attitude. • The great sin is rebellion (see 32:1).","14":"words of my mouth . . . meditation of my heart: The psalmist desires to please God in everything he says and thinks (see Luke 6:45; Rom 12:1-2)."},"20":{"1":"The title God of Jacob affectionately expresses God’s ancient relationship with his people (see 46:7, 11; 75:9; 76:6; 81:1, 4; 84:8; 94:7; 114:7; 146:5). • keep you safe from all harm: See 59:1-2.","3":"Gifts and burnt offerings express submission to the Lord (cp. 40:6).","5":"Troops carried a victory banner to battle, under which they gathered and roused one another to action (see Isa 11:10, 12).","6":"God chose his anointed king to be ruler (see 2:7).","7":"chariots and horses: These were instruments of war (see 33:16-17; 76:6; 147:10; Isa 30:16; 31:1-3)."},"21":{"2":"The king has experienced his heart’s desire—God’s protection and blessing (see 20:5; see also 2:8).","3":"success and prosperity: See Prov 10:6.","4":"God offers a rich quality of life (61:6-7; 91:14-16; 128:4-6) characterized by his presence (16:11; 23:6; 27:4; 36:9), joy (16:11), goodness (23:6; 34:14-15), and protection (41:2; 61:7).","6":"God’s eternal blessings also bring fullness of life in the present (see Ps 133).","7":"The king enjoyed victory not because of his strength or intrinsic goodness but because God honored his faith.","9":"The flaming furnace and fire portray the severity of God’s judgment on the wicked. In the Old Testament, this image often refers to hell (11:6; 18:8; 50:3; 68:2; 78:21; 79:5; 80:16; 89:46; 97:3; 104:4; 140:10; see Isa 66:24).","10":"children . . . descendants: Evil will end when God destroys all opposition to himself (109:13; cp. 18:50; 22:30-31; 25:13; 102:28).","13":"Rise up (or be exalted, as in 57:5, 11; 108:5) expresses communal praise and joy in God’s greatness and power."},"22":{"3":"God, the holy King, is set apart from all his creation, but he chooses to reveal himself to Israel. • God greatly desires that his people offer praises to him.","7":"Everyone mocks the psalmist’s confidence in the Lord (see 3:2; Matt 27:43), which shames him (Pss 44:13-14; 74:10; 89:50; 109:25).","9":"The Lord took care of the psalmist before he could do anything for himself (see 71:6; 139:13).","12":"Bashan, a region known for its herds and vegetation, produced strong bulls (68:30).","14":"The psalmist’s sense of being poured out like water expresses a meaningless, transitory existence that leaves him depleted.","15":"Facing adversity is as horrible as dying of thirst (see 137:6). • Jesus may have had this verse in mind when he said, “I am thirsty” (John 19:28).","16":"The wild pack of dogs represents fierce and unscrupulous people.","20":"The sword makes evident the lethal intent of the enemy.","22":"I will proclaim your name: The writer to the Hebrews ascribes these words to Jesus (Heb 2:12). • my brothers and sisters: Literally my brothers. In the New Testament quotation, the Greek translation picks up the broader meaning as “my brothers and sisters.”","23":"The godly respond with awe (see 22:25).","24":"Unlike his response to the wicked (see 21:8-12), God cares about the needy and hears their prayers (51:17; 69:33; 102:17).","25":"The great assembly might include all nations (22:27; 26:12; 35:18).","26":"God knows his people’s needs and addresses them (63:5; 81:16; 103:5; 107:9; 132:15; 145:16; 147:14).","27":"families of the nations: All clans and tribes of humanity (see Gen 12:3; Rev 5:9-10) will live in submission to the Lord (Ps 96:1-3; see Pss 2, 72; Isa 2:2-4; 1 Cor 15:25-27).","28":"The universal kingdom belongs to God alone (Obad 1:21).","29":"The Lord invites all people, rich and poor (22:26), to the banquet as long as they worship him.","30":"Future generations will join those from the past who praised the Lord (22:3-5). The descendants of the godly will receive blessings (22:30-31), unlike the offspring of the wicked (21:10).","31":"The Lord’s acts of redemption (40:9; 50:6; 71:15, 16, 24; 97:6) demonstrate that he is righteous (see 4:1). His righteousness provides the character required for rule, judicial decisions, and relationships. This virtue leads to harmony and order (see 50:6)."},"23":{"1":"The Lord promises to take care of his children (34:9-10; Isa 51:14). He demonstrated this ability to Israel in the wilderness (Deut 2:7) and in the Promised Land (Deut 8:9).","2":"Sheep rest after they have eaten their fill (Zeph 3:13; see Isa 11:7; cp. Isa 13:20; 27:10). • The Lord leads the sheep for their own benefit (see Ps 5:8). • Sheep only drink from still water, so the shepherd seeks out peaceful streams for his flock.","3":"Cp. 19:7; the Lord’s word renews my strength. • The Lord guides by rescuing his people from evil (23:4-5; see 31:3), bringing them back to himself (5:8; 61:2), caring (48:14; 139:10), ruling (67:4), counseling (73:24), protecting (78:53; 107:30; 143:11), and instructing them in wisdom (27:11; see Prov 4:11). • The Lord’s name guarantees the relationship; he guards his reputation against any accusation of his abandoning his people or allowing them to sin (see Pss 25:11; 31:3; 106:8; 143:11).","4":"The shepherd used his rod and staff to fend off danger.","5":"A feast demonstrates the Lord’s care and mercy toward his people (see 22:26, 29). Although enemies can watch, they cannot trouble the guests. • The ritual of anointing the head with oil showed guests honor (92:9-11), hospitality, and refreshment (104:15; 133:2).","6":"The Lord expresses his unfailing love through the goodness of his presence and other benefits that he alone provides (69:16; 86:17; 109:21; see 18:6; 61:4). He actively bestows care that is greater than the temporary trials imposed by enemies (7:1)."},"24":{"1":"The Lord created and now rules the earth and everything in it (see 1 Cor 10:25-26). He sees all its people (Ps 33:14), regardless of their status (49:1-2).","2":"God created everything in an orderly and stable manner (see 89:11; 102:25; 104:5).","3":"These questions invite readers to look away from their problems with the wicked and to examine themselves (see 15:1). • God’s holy place is the holy mountain, a reference both to Jerusalem and to heaven.","4":"Those with pure hands have not shed blood or injured relationships between people (see 9:12; 15:2-5). • Those with pure hearts commit themselves fully to the Lord, as evidenced in strength of character, transparency, and selflessness (51:10; 73:1; see Matt 5:8).","10":"The Lord of Heaven’s Armies reigns from his home, the Temple in Jerusalem (84:3-5). He excludes sin and sinners (24:3-6) but protects all who dwell in Zion."},"25":{"1":"The psalmist commits himself to the Lord instead of to idols (see 24:3-4).","2":"Enemies would rejoice by singing a victory song.","5":"Biblical hope does not mean wishing for an event to turn out favorably. Hope trusts the Lord’s will and gives the courage to face disappointments (33:22; 130:5).","6":"compassion: See also 51:1; 57:1; 103:8.","11":"The psalmist again asks forgiveness for his many sins (25:7; 32:1-5). The sins of Israel’s kings demonstrated the weaknesses inherent in David’s dynasty and the reasons for its failure in Old Testament Israel (see Ps 89).","13":"prosperity: See 23:6. • inherit the land: Unlike the wicked, who will perish (1:6), the godly have a secure future. In the end, God will bless them, and their blessings will endure (see 37:9, 11, 22, 29, 34; Isa 57:13; Matt 5:5).","15":"the traps of my enemies: See 5:9-10; 31:4; 140:5; Prov 3:26.","21":"Just as it opened, the psalm closes with a commitment of trust and hope (see 9:18; 25:5)."},"26":{"3":"For God’s truth to become part of one’s character requires a habitual commitment.","6":"Ritual purity required the worshiper to wash their hands, symbolic of separation from evil and evildoers (see 73:13). • The altar symbolizes God’s presence (43:4).","8":"The sanctuary symbolized the manifest presence of the Lord (see 18:6).","9":"Don’t let me suffer: The end of the godly cannot be the same as that of the wicked.","12":"The psalmist’s footing on solid ground represents salvation (cp. 143:10). • publicly: Or in the great assembly at the Temple (26:6-8; 22:25)."},"27":{"1":"Light expresses the Lord’s goodness (27:13; see 4:6; 23:6; 31:19; 38:10; 43:3; 56:13).","2":"The psalmist’s enemies seek to devour him by living at his expense (see study note on 14:4).","3":"remain confident: See 25:2; 26:1.","5":"sanctuary (or tabernacle): This early shrine was the Israelites’ place of worship before the Temple was constructed.","6":"hold my head high: A sign of victory. • The granting of the request of 27:4 prompts sacrifices with shouts of joy."},"28":{"1":"if you are silent: The psalmist appeals to the Lord to take action (35:22; 50:3; 83:1; 109:1).","2":"It was common to lift up one’s hands in a gesture of devoted prayer (63:4; 134:2).","5":"The wicked do not acknowledge the difference between the sacred and the common, so they have no respect for the Lord’s creation, redemption, or revelation.","7":"my strength and shield: The Lord protects the psalmist (see 59:9, 17).","9":"The poem closes with intercession for the Lord’s people. • Bless Israel, your special possession: See 29:11; 133:3."},"29":{"5":"The cedars of Lebanon were known for their size and quality (see Isa 2:13).","6":"Lebanon’s mountains and Hermon are high mountains to the north of Israel. • The Lord can cause even immense mountains to shake at his command (see 114:4).","8":"The wilderness of Kadesh was located south of Judah. God’s voice can be heard throughout the land, from the north (29:6) to the south.","10":"The image of powerful floodwaters connects with the Genesis flood (Gen 6:17). The Lord reigns as king over the whole created order; no one contests his kingdom.","11":"The ruler of nature blesses his people with peace (see 28:8-9; 37:11; 133:3)."},"30":{"0":"title Perhaps David wrote this psalm in advance for the dedication of the Temple, making his own experience representative of the nation’s.","1":"I will exalt you is a call to lift up the Lord’s name in praise and thanksgiving (34:3; 81:1; 99:5, 9; 107:32; 118:28; 145:1; see Exod 15:1; Isa 25:1). • you rescued me: God pulled the psalmist from death (Ps 30:3). • In his justice and care, God refused to let the psalmist’s enemies triumph (see 26:9; 27:12; 28:3; 31:8).","4":"The godly should celebrate the Lord’s acts of rescue with song and praise (33:21; 97:12; 103:1; 105:3; 145:21)."},"31":{"2":"The psalmist issues an urgent call for the Lord to pay attention to his desperate situation (71:2; 88:2; 102:2).","5":"I entrust my spirit into your hand: Whether he lives or dies, the psalmist will trust his Lord. Jesus uttered these words on the cross just before he died (Luke 23:46).","8":"A safe place literally means a broad place, in contrast to a “narrow” or constricted place of distress (see 18:19).","10":"wasting away from within: This is a powerful description of how despair takes a toll on our physical well-being.","15":"My future is in your hands: To relinquish control of timing is one way to express submission.","17":"The psalmist, who did not deserve to be disgraced, invokes the principle of retribution (see study note on 1:6; see also “Prayers for Vengeance” Theme Note)."},"32":{"4":"The psalmist attributes his suffering directly to the Lord’s hand of discipline (cp. 38:2; 39:10).","5":"God has forgiven the guilt and rebellion of 32:1. The Lord’s nature is to reconcile and forgive (78:38; 85:2; 130:4), but he requires confession and repentance.","6":"The godly will learn from the psalmist’s experience to pray for forgiveness before it is too late.","7":"The Lord promises to be his people’s hiding place (31:20). Instead of being overwhelmed by terror (31:13), the psalmist is surrounded by songs of victory.","8":"God interrupts the psalmist’s teaching with a message that invites the godly to receive the Lord’s wisdom (see 5:8; 23:3; 25:4-6).","9":"The senseless person is not wise. Rejecting the Lord’s counsel ruins life and makes one like an animal (see Isa 1:3; Jas 3:3).","10":"Difficulties common to all of life will ensnare the wicked, whereas the Lord promises to protect the godly with his care."},"33":{"7":"The nations surrounding Israel thought that the sea had divine power, but it is under God’s control, within boundaries that he set (see 104:8-10).","8":"The power of the Lord extends to all the nations (see 2; 96:1-3).","10":"The plans and schemes of the mighty will not prevail, except by God’s will (see Isa 8:9-10).","11":"God’s word still orders creation and will do so forever. • God’s intentions are marvelous (40:5; 92:5).","12":"People who fear God are chosen as his inheritance (see 33:13-19); this excludes rebellious people (78:62).","18":"God watches over all who live by his counsel (32:8). He protects, rescues, and remains close to them (34:15-22).","22":"Using a play on words, the psalmist contrasts his people’s sure hope (Hebrew yakhal) in the Lord with the supposed strength (33:17; Hebrew khayil) of the horses of the wicked."},"34":{"1":"title Abimelech is another name for Achish (see 1 Sam 21:10-15). The body of the psalm makes no explicit connection to this event.","7":"The angel of the Lord represented the Lord’s presence during the wilderness journey. He protected Israel from the forces of Egypt (Exod 14:19-20), and he will guard all the godly (Ps 91:11).","11":"Anyone who listens, even children, can become wise followers of God.","13":"Godly people control their words; speaking evil and telling lies are foolish (see 10:7; cp. 17:1).","14":"The way of peace leads to harmony and order, whereas evil destroys them (see 37:11).","18":"Those who are brokenhearted possess a spirit of deep contrition and dependence on the Lord. God accepts this spirit as a proper sacrifice (51:17). The wicked hate the brokenhearted (109:16), but the Lord heals them (147:3; see Isa 57:15; 61:1).","20":"Bones represent a person’s entire being (see 6:2). • not one of them is broken: John applied this statement to Jesus at the crucifixion (John 19:36)."},"35":{"6":"A path that is dark and slippery suggests instability and untimely doom under the Lord’s judgment (see 69:23; 73:18; 82:5; 107:10; 143:3). • The angel of the Lord is an agent of judgment as well as salvation.","10":"Nothing in the universe can compare with the Lord (see 86:8; 89:6, 8; Isa 40:18, 25).","11":"Malicious witnesses want nothing but violence (see 11:4-6; 54:3).","16":"The psalmist’s attackers snarl to express their bitter envy.","19":"John applied this claim of innocence (see also 69:4) to Jesus (John 15:25).","21":"Aha! . . . Look: Both words translate the same expression of glee (Hebrew he’akh)."},"36":{"1":"no fear of God: Paul includes this phrase in his description of the depravity of all people (Rom 3:18).","9":"Light represents salvation and celebration (18:25-29; 27:1; cp. 35:6).","12":"The psalmist remains confident that the disorder caused by the wicked (36:1-4) will end when they meet their demise."},"37":{"1":"envy: The jealous desire to have what others enjoy leads to further sin (73:3; Prov 3:31; Jas 1:14-15; 4:1-2).","2":"Finite existence is part of the human condition (see 90:5-6; 92:7; 102:4, 11; 103:15; 129:6; Isa 40:7-8).","3":"To do good means cultivating a devotion to wisdom (see 34:14; Prov 3:5-7).","4":"To take delight in the Lord means aligning with the Lord’s way in order to enjoy him.","6":"Justice occurs when the Lord’s will triumphs and the godly experience his rescue (Isa 45:8; 51:5-6; 58:8, 10-11).","7":"Be still: We should let the Lord be God rather than taking matters into our own hands.","8":"Irritability and anger quickly corrode character.","11":"The Lord is the author of peace (85:10)—he brings peace to a chaotic world (29:11; 37:11; 85:8; 147:14). His wisdom guides the lowly into the way of peace (119:165; Matt 5:5).","16":"Being wise with modest means is better than having prosperity and power and being wicked (Prov 15:16; 16:8, 19; 17:1; 28:6).","20":"Smoke depicts the temporary nature of life (68:2; 102:3).","21":"To borrow and never repay is a behavior of a crooked lifestyle. • Generous givers freely share what they freely receive from the Lord (see 111:5; 112:5).","30":"The godly base their counsel on the Lord’s wisdom.","31":"They have made God’s law their own: The godly internalize God’s wisdom and instructions (see 119:11; Jer 24:7; 31:31-34)."},"38":{"1":"title asking God to remember him: The meaning of this phrase is uncertain (also in 70:title).","3":"Sin can lead to sickness and even death (1 Cor 11:30). Whether the psalmist actually felt physically ill or his sickness was a metaphor for emotional turmoil, he knew that it came from God and threatened his life (see Pss 32:3; 39:10).","4":"The psalmist’s burden results from sin (see 40:12; 41:4; cp. Gen 4:13).","13":"The psalmist suffers quietly before his opponents (see Isa 53:7).","15":"The Lord alone will resolve the conflict (9:18; 27:14; 37:9, 34).","19":"That the psalmist’s enemies hate him without reason compounds his pain.","22":"Asking the Lord to act quickly in times of great need is common in the Psalter (22:19; 31:2; 40:13; 69:17; 70:1; 71:12; 79:8; 102:2; 141:1; 143:7). However, wisdom and experience teach that God’s people must often wait for him to act (27:14; 37:7; Isa 8:17; 40:31)."},"39":{"1":"title Jeduthun was a levitical singer appointed by David along with Asaph (1 Chr 9:16; 16:38; 25:1).","8":"The idea that rebellion brings on suffering is a common thread in Pss 32, 38–41.","11":"The Lord uses discipline to correct his children (38:1, 3, 7; 40:12; see Prov 3:11-12; Heb 12:5-6).","12":"A guest (or foreigner) had no rights of land ownership (see Lev 25:23). The patriarchs had lived as guests in Canaan (Ps 105:23).","13":"Unlike the psalmist’s earlier request that God stay close to him (38:21-22), his present desire for God to leave him alone echoes Job’s disposition (Job 7:17-19)."},"40":{"6":"The Lord delights in the attitude and character of the person making an offering more than in the offering itself. • Now that you have made me listen, I finally understand: Greek text reads You have given me a body. In Heb 10:5-7, the writer quotes from the Greek version of Ps 40:6-8. He casts the words as something Jesus said as he left heaven and came into the world.","7":"As is written about me in the Scriptures: Moses had recorded God’s requirements for Israel’s kings in Deut 17:14-15.","11":"The psalmist prays that the Lord will be true to his character when answering this plea for mercy."},"41":{"1":"The poor who suffer hardship have special protection under God’s law (Lev 14:21; 19:10); they receive God’s justice and godly rule (Pss 72:13; 82:3-4). The word translated poor is often a synonym for the godly (113:7; see Zeph 3:12).","3":"when they are sick: This illness might be physical or spiritual (see 6:2; Ps 38).","4":"The psalmist applies the blessing to himself (41:12). Apparently he has taken care of the poor (41:1), but he has sinned against the Lord in other ways. Out of his pain, he cries for healing while confessing his sin. The Lord alone can grant the restoration that brings true joy (30:2; 107:20-21).","5":"How soon will he die? The psalmist’s opponents regard his suffering as a divine judgment (cp. 1:6).","9":"the one who shared my food: Eating together was a sign of unity (Acts 2:42). Refusing to eat with someone indicated hostility (1 Cor 5:11). Jesus experienced the same kind of betrayal (John 13:1, 18).","13":"This doxology closes Book One (Pss 1–41). Cp. 106:48."},"42":{"1":"title The descendants of Korah were members of a Levitical choir appointed by David to serve as Temple singers (see 1 Chr 6:22-38; 9:19-34; 2 Chr 20:19). Their ancestor Korah was the apostate who had rebelled against Moses and whom the earth swallowed up (Exod 6:24; Num 16).","3":"Having tears for food speaks of great grief (80:5; 102:9; see 6:6; 56:8; 119:136; 126:5). • The wicked try to hold God to their timetable and deny his power to intervene.","4":"The psalmist recalls leading a great procession as a member of the Levitical choir, possibly during the high holy days.","5":"The psalmist feels depressed, but it does not incapacitate him. He remembers that the living God is his Savior. This verse is repeated in 42:11 and 43:5.","6":"Mount Hermon is a high mountain range northeast of Israel. The source of the Jordan is by Dan at the foot of Mount Hermon. • Mount Mizar might be a peak in the Mount Hermon range.","7":"The raging seas, waves, and surging tides conjure images of God’s wrath (see 88:7).","8":"The psalmist sees rays of hope. A life oriented to God includes songs of joy and praying for justice and vindication (42:9-10; 43:1-4)."},"43":{"2":"tossed me aside: Other psalms similarly ask whether God has rejected his people (44:9, 23; 60:1, 10; 74:1; 77:7; 88:14; 89:38; 108:11).","3":"In this prayer for God’s redemption, light and truth are viewed as guides (see 18:25-29; 27:1; 85:10-13; 89:14-18; see also 119:105; John 3:19; Eph 5:8; 1 Thes 5:5-7). • The Temple on the mountain in Jerusalem symbolized God’s holy presence among his people (Pss 15:1; 43:3; 99:5, 9; 132:7).","5":"This verse is repeated in 42:5, 11."},"44":{"1":"we have heard . . . of all you did: The story of redemption encompasses the story of God’s favor and power in his past acts of rescue (see 78:1-4; see also Pss 105–106).","2":"God drove out the pagan nations during the conquests recorded in Joshua.","3":"Though the Israelites used swords and other weapons (44:6), they would have lost their battles without the light of the Lord’s favor (see 18:25-29; 27:1; 89:15).","11":"scattered us among the nations: This probably refers to the Exile (see 51:18-19; 89:38-51; 106:40-47; 137).","22":"Paul quotes this verse as a parenthetical aside in his list of things that cannot separate us from Christ’s love (Rom 8:36).","23":"Wake up: Biblical authors often call for God’s attention in a crisis (35:23; 44:23; 73:20; 80:2; Mark 4:38)."},"45":{"1":"title The tune “Lilies” is no longer known (see also Ps 69).","2":"This general description of the king’s symbolic status anticipates his permanent legacy (45:16). That the Lord has blessed him and charged him to bear God’s attributes is symbolized by his handsome appearance and gracious words.","3":"Glory and majesty belong to the Lord (96:6; 111:3).","4":"As God’s agent of truth, humility, and justice (see 72:1-2, 4, 7), the king can carry out awe-inspiring deeds (65:5; 96:4).","6":"Justice characterizes God’s rule, as it should characterize the king’s administration.","8":"Fine spices mixed with oil create distinctive perfumes. • The king’s palaces were wood paneled with ivory inlays (cp. 6:4; Amos 3:15).","9":"Marriages often sealed diplomatic connections between kings; the women became part of the harem (see 1 Kgs 11:1-3).","12":"The princess of Tyre: Israel traded with Tyre, a powerful city-state. The noblest woman of the city bears a wedding gift to her counterpart, the new queen, who represents an honored kingdom."},"46":{"1":"title sung by soprano voices: Hebrew according to alamoth (“maidens”; see also study note on 1 Chr 15:20). In worship, a choir or a group of instrumentalists performed this hymn.","4":"Like the streams flowing through Eden, this river brings the water of life, restoration, and healing (36:8-9; see Gen 2:10; Ezek 47; Rev 22:2).","5":"From the very break of day: In the ancient Near East, enemies attacked cities during the day; even during the most dangerous times, the Lord will protect the place where his name dwells.","6":"People and nations live in chaos, characterized by opportunism (83:2), busyness (39:6), and noise. These people shake, totter, and crumble, unlike the city of God (cp. 15:5). In contrast, when the godly feel disturbed, they cry out for God’s help (42:5, 11; 43:5; 55:17).","7":"This refrain reminds readers of the identity of the God of Zion. • among us: Hebrew ‘immanu, part of the name Immanuel, “God with us” (Isa 7:14; 8:8; Matt 1:23).","8":"Israel saw the Lord’s glorious works in the wilderness (107:24; 111:2), but the wicked, who have no concern for them (28:5), are left desolate (73:19).","10":"A message directly from the Lord confirms the authenticity of the psalmist’s vision (see also 12:5-6; 32:8). • know that I am God: The Lord will do what he promises (Isa 45:3; 49:23; 60:16). • God will be exalted (Ps 47; Isa 6:1); he will judge the nations and rescue his people (see Pss 57:11; 89:13; 108:5-6; 118:16)."},"47":{"1":"People clap their hands in praise and recognition of marvelous deeds (47:3-4; see 98:8; Isa 55:12; cp. Nah 3:19).","4":"Jacob’s descendants: Jacob was the father of all Israelites (Gen 32:28); the name Jacob often represents the nation of Israel. • God loves and commits himself to Jacob (see Pss 78:68; 127:2; see Rom 11:28).","5":"trumpets: Or rams’ horns (see 81:3). At times, rams’ horns were sounded in celebration (98:5-6; 2 Kgs 11:14; 1 Chr 15:28).","7":"People from all the earth (see 96:1-3) will worship God."},"48":{"3":"God dwells in Zion to protect it from all enemies (see 46:5).","7":"The ships of Tarshish, built for long voyages, represent human accomplishment (see also 2 Chr 9:21; Isa 2:16). Their destruction might be the event mentioned in 1 Kgs 22:48.","14":"No one is like God (35:10; 71:19; 86:8; 89:6, 8; 113:5; see Isa 40:18, 25). He is the shepherd King (Ps 95:7) who will guide (see 5:8; 23:2) the sheep of his flock (77:20)."},"49":{"4":"The teacher used both proverbs and riddles for instruction in wisdom (see Prov 1:5-6)."},"50":{"9":"Unlike pagan gods, God does not need food; instead, he wants his people to serve him with a right heart (50:14-15).","10":"I own the cattle on a thousand hills: God has no needs; he possesses everything.","14":"Thankfulness means looking beyond self-interest to express gratitude for God’s blessings (see 51:15-17; 54:6). • True sacrifice requires offering one’s self to the glory of God (50:23; Rom 12:1-2).","15":"God’s response to his people’s cry is to rescue them.","17":"my discipline . . . my words: The wicked may observe rituals, but they reject more important matters such as justice, mercy, and faithfulness (cp. Matt 23:23-24).","21":"Because he is patient, God remained silent.","22":"God will tear the wicked apart like a lion tearing its prey (Isa 5:29; 31:4; Ezek 19:3; cp. Pss 7:2; 22:13)."},"51":{"0":"title regarding the time Nathan . . . Bathsheba: See 2 Sam 11:1-27. The text of the psalm contains no explicit reference to this event.","1":"A prayer for God’s mercy and kindness is part of the genre of lament. Sometimes the plea comes from the psalmist’s acknowledgment of his weakness and sin, as here (see also 6:2; 9:13; 25:16; 31:9; 41:4, 10). At other times, it arises from the psalmist’s commitment to the Lord (see 26:11; 27:7; 119:29, 58, 132). In each case, God’s mercy brings an inner renewal.","2":"Wash me . . . Purify me: The psalmist prays for cleansing and release from the guilt of his sin (51:7; see 26:6; Isa 1:16, 18; 4:4).","4":"Against . . . you alone: This is hyperbole—the psalmist knows he also sinned against human beings (2 Sam 11:2-4, 15-17), but his offense against God is more important. He expects God to rebuke him and will accept whatever verdict God renders (see Rom 3:4).","5":"I was born a sinner: The psalmist is not making excuses but is acknowledging the depth of his sinfulness. From the time we are conceived, we all share in the human condition of sinfulness.","7":"Purify me from my sins (literally Purify me with the hyssop branch; see Exod 12:22; Lev 14:4; John 19:29; Heb 9:19): The psalmist depends on God to purify and renew him (see Isa 1:18).","8":"Regaining joy is a gracious gift from God. • you have broken me: The psalmist’s whole being feels broken (6:2; cp. 34:20).","10":"A loyal spirit yields the inner qualities of constancy and perseverance.","11":"your Holy Spirit: Only the power of the Holy Spirit can change the human will to make it “loyal” (51:10) and “willing to obey” (51:12).","13":"As he learns from his sin and its consequences, the psalmist wants to teach others.","14":"shedding blood: This idiom includes any injustice, not just homicide (9:12; 58:10; see 2 Sam 11:14-26; cp. Isa 1:15-17).","19":"Sacrifices offered in the right spirit come from a heart that is right with God and with others (see 15:2-5; 24:3-6; 50:14; Matt 5:23-24)."},"52":{"1":"title This psalm refers to an incident in 1 Sam 21:1-10; 22:9-10. The accuser, Doeg the Edomite, is a paradigm of evil.","3":"Deceptive speech changes one’s character.","5":"God will strike the wicked down like a pagan altar, idol, or unclean vessel (Exod 34:13; Lev 11:35; 2 Kgs 10:27).","6":"In Hebrew, the verbs here translated see and be amazed sound almost alike."},"53":{"5":"scatter the bones: Israel’s enemies would suffer shameful defeat and lack the peaceful rest of a decent burial (cp. 141:7; 2 Kgs 9:10; Jer 8:1-2; Ezek 6:5)."},"54":{"1":"title This psalm refers to the account of 1 Sam 23:19-20, when the Ziphites were bent on violence.","3":"The strangers were alienated from the covenant community (see 109:11; Prov 5:10). • Proud and violent people hold no regard for God or for other people (see Pss 35:11, 25; 86:14; Prov 11:16).","6":"A voluntary offering is a sacrifice of praise. Sacrifices of praise are the kind of offering God most desires (see Ps 50:14-15, 23)."},"55":{"23":"To die young means that one fails to experience God’s full blessing (cp. Prov 3:2, 16)."},"56":{"1":"title David was seized by Philistines concerned about his loyalties and brought before King Achish (1 Sam 21:10-15).","4":"mere mortals: Or mere flesh, in contrast to the immortal and infinitely more powerful God (see Isa 2:22).","8":"The psalmist makes a play on the Hebrew words translated sorrows (Hebrew nod) and bottle (Hebrew no’d).","11":"mere mortals (Hebrew ’adam): The psalm also uses two other words for man: ’enosh (“people,” 56:1) and basar (“mere mortals,” 56:4). All express the ideas of mortality and finitude.","13":"The light of God’s goodness and salvation will replace the darkness of death (see 18:25-29; 27:1)."},"57":{"0":"title David . . . fled from Saul and went into the cave: See 1 Sam 22:1 or Ps 24:1-8.","1":"shadow of your wings: As a bird protects its young, God protects the one who trusts in him (see 17:8).","2":"God Most High (Hebrew Elohim-Elyon) is a generic title for God, who is more powerful than all real or imagined supernatural beings (see 91:1; 97:9; Gen 14:18-22). • who will fulfill his purpose: Or who will end my [trouble], or who deals kindly with me.","5":"This verse is repeated in 57:11 and 108:5. • God’s glory—his manifest presence that excludes all evil (8:1; 19:1-4; 24:7)—will fill the whole created order (Isa 6:3)."},"58":{"1":"rulers (or gods): This designation was used for high officials and administrators of justice (82:1, 6). Elsewhere, it might refer to angelic creatures (89:7) or to the gods of the nations (82:1; Dan 11:36).","3":"All human beings are born sinners (see 51:5); however, whereas the wicked indulge their sinful nature, the godly fight against it (Rom 7:19-23; Jas 4:1-10).","4":"Venom here means poisonous speech (see 140:3).","6":"The psalmist calls on God to break the destructive power of the wicked.","8":"When moving over dry ground, snails dry up.","11":"Vindication is the reward of those who live for God."},"59":{"1":"title the time Saul sent soldiers to watch David’s house: See 1 Sam 19:11-18."},"60":{"1":"title useful for teaching: This psalm was taught to young people as part of their education. • regarding the time: See 2 Sam 8:13-14. • Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah refer to the Arameans of northwest Mesopotamia and Syria (see study note on Gen 24:10). • The tune “Lily of the Testimony” is unknown today.","3":"wine (Hebrew yayin) that sent us reeling: Yayin, the generic Hebrew term meaning “wine,” is often associated with drunkenness (2 Sam 13:28; Isa 5:11; 28:7-8; cp. Ps 104:15; Deut 14:26; Isa 55:1); it symbolized God’s judgment of the wicked (Ps 75:8; Jer 51:7).","4":"God raised a banner over his people to serve as a rallying point and as a source of pride and confidence. • The fear of God that leads to wisdom (111:10) is not weakness; it provides the perspective and strength required to do what is right.","5":"The psalmist prays for rescue based on the special relationship between God and his people.","6":"Shechem and Succoth represent Israel’s heartland.","9":"Destroying a defeated invader’s capital (the fortified city) would help to ensure that they would not attack again. The capital of Edom was Bozrah, located to the southeast of Israel. Only God could grant victory."},"61":{"2":"the ends of the earth: This expression has the connotation of a cry that comes from a place far away from God. • The psalmist’s heart is overwhelmed with deep anguish.","4":"The poet longs for God’s presence and seeks entrance into God’s home on earth for divine protection and care. To be received into God’s sanctuary (literally tent) is the greatest good (see 15:1; 23:6; 24:3-6). The Hebrew word translated sanctuary recalls the Tabernacle and the tent that David built for the Ark (1 Chr 15:1). See also study note on John 1:14. • The shelter of your wings symbolizes God’s protection and care (see Pss 9:9; 17:8).","5":"you have heard my vows: The psalmist’s vows might also be a part of ceremonial sacrifices (66:13-15; 76:11; 116:14, 18). He praises and thanks God for his rescue. • The inheritance refers to the promise of the land (see Ps 60), the sacredness of the Temple, the joy of God’s presence (119:111), or any similar reward (16:6; 37:9, 11, 18, 22, 29, 34; 127:3)."},"62":{"1":"title Jeduthun: See 1 Chr 25:1; also in Pss 39 and 77.","4":"My high position refers to the royal throne.","9":"not what they appear to be: People often try to look stronger and better than they are.","10":"The crime of extortion means using intimidation and threats to make others give up what is theirs, while stealing is taking what belongs to others."},"63":{"1":"Together, soul and whole body refer to a person’s entire being. • parched and weary land: When David was living in the desert, he also found himself in a spiritual wasteland, separated from God’s people and the sanctuary.","2":"The psalmist remembers that he had found God to be present in his sanctuary (see 18:6; 61:4; 62:5, 11-12).","3":"better than life itself: The highest quality of life is found in relationship with God (see 4:7; 63:5; Prov 16:8).","6":"Meditating on God requires focused awareness, concentration, thought, and reflection (see 1:2).","9":"The wicked were plotting to destroy the psalmist’s life through deception and lies, but they would meet their end. • The depths of the earth refers to the place of the dead.","10":"Wild jackals are associated with desolation and abandonment (Isa 13:20-22; 34:10-15; Jer 9:11; 49:33; 51:37; Lam 5:18; Mal 1:3). The wicked will not receive honor in death; their bodies will be left to scavenging animals (Eccl 6:3; Jer 22:18-19; 36:29-30)."},"64":{"3":"their tongues . . . bitter words: Liars use their speech to kill. This description might also refer to practicing magic.","6":"The enemies create a perfect plan to harm the innocent without getting caught. • Human beings will sink to unthinkable depths with evil words, acts, or plans (83:3; see Jer 17:9)."},"65":{"1":"God alone deserves praise and is worthy to have vows made to him.","2":"All of us means all humans.","3":"you forgive: God graciously removes the guilt of sin (see 32:5).","4":"those you choose to bring near: This includes people from Israel and from other nations. • Only those whom God sees as blameless live in his holy courts (Pss 15 and 24). • At the Temple, God’s earthly palace, all nations can gather to experience God’s holy presence. No structure can separate humans from God (see Rev 21:22).","8":"All over the world (Job 38:13; see Ps 50:1-3), people should stand in awe of the Lord.","9":"The river of God and all rivers demonstrate God’s victorious power and goodness through the order in nature and the regularity of the harvests (see 1:3; 36:8; 46:4; Ezek 47:6-12; Zech 14:8; Rev 22:1).","13":"Nature bursts out in praise of the Creator (see 79:13; 96:11-13; 148:3-5, 7-12; Isa 55:12-13)."},"66":{"2":"The glory of his name represents the perfection of God’s character.","3":"God conquers his enemies (see 18:44; 59:11; 81:15).","7":"God’s power brings redemption. The same word occurs in 65:6 for God’s power in creation (see also 80:2).","9":"God guides his people into wisdom and away from folly (17:5; 37:31; 121:3).","10":"You have tested us, O God: As the silversmith heats silver to remove the dross, God’s discipline removes sin from his people (see 12:6).","11":"God decrees and permits the many trying circumstances his people experience.","12":"Then you put a leader over us: Or You made people ride over our heads. This expression possibly refers to a foreign ruler who kept the Israelites in submission.","15":"Vows often included sacrifices of thanksgiving, including burnt offerings (see 20:3; 40:6; 50:8; 51:19).","18":"Confession leads to restoration (see 32:5)."},"67":{"3":"God’s international reputation leads to his praise among the nations (see 138:4), whose turmoil and rebelliousness will cease when they join Israel in praise of God. • One God rules over all, and the nations will give thanks for God’s just rule (see 67:4).","4":"God brings the ultimate justice that human beings desire (96:10; 98:9)."},"68":{"2":"Both smoke and wax represent a transitory existence (22:12-18; 37:20; 102:3).","3":"The lot of the godly contrasts with that of the wicked (see 1:6).","4":"him who rides the clouds: This is an ancient description of Baal, a Canaanite deity. The psalmist applies it to the Lord as the true “Rider of the Clouds” (see 68:33; 104:3). God wields power over the clouds and the rain.","5":"God, the Father of all marginalized and needy people, shows them compassion and protects their rights (see 10:14, 18; 69:33; 82:3). • Like his dwelling, the Lord is holy. The supreme example of the holy God coming down to rescue humanity is Jesus Christ.","6":"God released Israel from slavery in Egypt (Exod 20:2; see Ps 69:33), and he still sets the prisoners free. • The sun-scorched desert represents alienation from God and separation from blessing.","11":"a great army (or a host of women) brings: The Hebrew suggests women singers caroling the good news of victory (see 68:25; Exod 15:20).","13":"The seminomadic pastoral people who lived among the sheepfolds were surprised to receive silver and gold carvings from the battle.","14":"The Almighty (Hebrew Shaddai) is an ancient designation for God (see 91:1; Gen 17:1). • The identification of Mount Zalmon is uncertain; it was possibly a mountain in Bashan (see Ps 68:15).","15":"Bashan is a plateau northeast of Jerusalem and east of the Sea of Galilee that was known for its woods and pastureland (see 22:12; Isa 2:13). The mountains might have included Mount Hermon to the north of the plateau or Mount Zalmon, which might be Jebel ed-Druze on the east.","16":"Why do you look with envy? Bashan is physically much more impressive than the mountains around Jerusalem, but it was not the home of the Lord. Only Mount Zion enjoyed the privilege of providing God’s dwelling place.","17":"Chariots, the ultimate weapon of the armed forces in the psalmist’s day, are an image of the Lord’s power to grant victory (20:7; 44:3).","18":"When you ascended to the heights: The Most High established his reign victoriously in Zion. • a crowd of captives . . . gifts: This is an image of a victorious ruler leading the victory march after battle. Paul applied this image to Jesus Christ (Eph 4:8-13).","19":"Like a caring father or a shepherd, God carries his people in his arms (see 55:22; 68:5-6).","21":"God will smash the heads of his enemies: Cp. Gen 3:15.","22":"God will deal with all enemies, whether from high places (represented by Bashan) or low (the depths of the sea).","29":"The conquered kings will bring gifts to the Lord.","30":"Hostile and rebellious people delight in warfare and insurrection (see 2:1-3).","32":"The term kingdoms of the earth includes all nations and power structures.","34":"When the Lord demonstrates his power, majesty, and strength against the nations, he strengthens his people (see 96:4-6)."},"69":{"1":"title to the tune “Lilies”: Psalm 45 also notes this tune, but Ps 45 celebrates the glory of kingship, whereas Ps 69 is the cry of a tired king who feels abandoned by the Lord.","4":"John applied this lament to Jesus (John 15:25).","9":"Though the psalmist concerns himself with God and all that is holy, insults have been his earthly reward. This verse was later applied to Jesus’ anger at the Temple’s money changers (John 2:17) and to his undeserved suffering (Rom 15:3).","21":"sour wine for my thirst: This description applies to Jesus’ suffering (Matt 27:34, 48; Luke 23:36; John 19:28-29).","25":"Peter quoted this verse after the death of Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:20).","28":"Erase their names from the Book of Life: Cp. 1:5-6; 9:5; Rev 3:5; 20:15; 21:22-27.","31":"Making a vow often included a sacrifice (20:3; 51:19; cp. 50:13-14; 51:16).","36":"God’s people will inherit the land because the wicked will perish (see 37:8-9)."},"70":{"1":"title asking God to remember him: The meaning of this phrase is unknown (also found in 38:title)."},"71":{"9":"The poet prays for continued fellowship with God (see 9:10; 51:11). In his weakness, he needs the Lord’s strength even more (see 143:7).","10":"In their plotting, the psalmist’s enemies take counsel and scheme together (2:2; 21:11; 31:13; 35:4; 63:9-10).","14":"The psalmist contrasts his own goodness with his enemies’ evil; he centers his life in the Lord, even during hard times (see 9:17-18; 27:13-14).","20":"lift me up from the depths: The psalmist hopes for the renewal of an abundant earthly life. This later became grounds for belief in the resurrection of the dead.","21":"Being assured of God’s comfort also assures the poet of God’s presence, care, and goodness (23:4, 6; 86:17). God’s comfort enhances the psalmist’s sense of being alive (see 119:50)."},"72":{"1":"love of justice . . . righteousness: Kings in the ancient Near East were expected to represent justice; the standard for Israel’s kings was much higher because the Lord was their model.","3":"The administration of justice transforms the earth into fruitfulness, abundance, harmony, and goodness (see Isa 32:16-17).","4":"A just ruler will defend the poor against injustice, rescue them from violence, and bring their oppressors to account for their wrongdoing.","5":"May they fear you: In Hebrew, this clause seems to be a response to the enforcement of justice. The Greek version reads May they endure, which makes this a prayer for longevity (21:4; 72:15, 17).","10":"The western kings of Tarshish came from a major colony in the western basin of the Mediterranean. The eastern kings of Sheba came from an area in southern Arabia, home of the queen of Sheba (1 Kgs 10). • Seba was probably located somewhere south of Egypt, perhaps on the western shore of the Red Sea across from Sheba. • The gifts offered to the king represented a tribute and a token of submission.","11":"All kings and all nations must submit to the messianic king. The hope expressed in 2:10-11 will be realized (see 96:1-3; 1 Cor 15:25) when other leaders and peoples bow before and serve this king.","12":"To rescue the poor means to bring an end to the rule of their oppressors.","13":"Like a father, the king feels pity for those in need (see Mal 3:17).","15":"The people will bless him, fulfilling God’s promise to Abraham (Gen 12:3; see Ps 133:3).","16":"the trees of Lebanon: Lebanon was renowned for its lumber (see study note on 2 Chr 2:8).","20":"This parenthetical note ends Book Two, which consists mostly of prayers of David. Books Three to Five were probably compiled after Book Two; they include additional psalms of David (Pss 86, 101, 103, 108–110, 122, 124, 131, 133, 138–145)."},"73":{"0":"title Asaph was a Levitical singer appointed by David (1 Chr 6:39); his descendants were singers and instrumentalists (1 Chr 15:16-17). Many of the psalms of Asaph (Pss 50, 73–83) were probably written by Asaph’s descendants at a later time in Israel’s history (e.g., Ps 74).","1":"People whose hearts are pure are renewed by God’s Spirit (51:10), commit themselves to lives of godliness, keep away from anything that is sinful, and enjoy God’s presence (see 24:3-4).","6":"The proud adorn themselves with pride and cruelty rather than wisdom (Prov 1:9).","9":"The proud boast, claiming that they own everything and are not subject to anyone (see 2:1-3).","24":"The Lord leads the godly through their troubles and changes their misery into splendor."},"74":{"1":"God rejected his people because their sin aroused his anger (106:34-46). • Like a tender shepherd, God cares for his people, the sheep of his pasture (Pss 23; 100:3).","2":"The Lord chose and redeemed Israel from Egypt in the Exodus (cp. Exod 15:13). • your own special possession: This is another expression for “your people” (Pss 28:9; 78:62; 94:14; 106:40).","12":"my king from ages past: The psalmist acknowledges God’s power and his historical bond with Israel (5:2; 44:4; 84:3).","14":"Leviathan: See 104:26; Job 3:8; 41:1, 12, 22, 31; Isa 27:1. Here, the creature’s multiple heads suggest a mythical monster.","15":"springs and streams to gush forth: God provided water in the desert for his people (see 68:8-9; Exod 17:6); he dried up the Red Sea (Exod 14:21) and the Jordan River (Josh 3:17)."},"75":{"6":"No creature has the right to rebel against its Creator."},"76":{"1":"title to be accompanied by stringed instruments: The Greek version reads for the Assyrian.","3":"God brings an end to the attacks of his enemies (see 46:9).","4":"The victorious king’s splendor, glory, and majesty are greater than anything in the created order (8:1; 29:4; 111:3).","7":"The word translated feared (Hebrew nora’) is a wordplay on the word translated “glorious” in 76:4 (Hebrew na’or)."},"77":{"3":"I think of God: God’s people inevitably face difficult times, but recalling his mighty acts at the beginning of their relationship assures them of God’s commitment. • Feeling overwhelmed, the psalmist is unable to deal with the crisis (142:3; 143:4).","7":"Feeling rejected (see 43:2), the psalmist asks if the situation is permanent.","10":"The psalmist fears that God’s hand of protection (44:3; 77:15; Exod 6:6) and favor (Pss 16:7-8; 110:1) is now against him for no apparent reason.","16":"the Red Sea: The Canaanites attributed divine power to the sea, but God is the one who made the sea and uses it for his own purposes."},"78":{"2":"The psalmist recites Israel’s story (78:5-72) in a parable in order to teach wisdom and insight. • Jesus quoted this verse to explain why he taught in parables (Matt 13:35).","12":"The miracles are the ten plagues against Egypt that God performed during Israel’s captivity (Exod 7–12).","13":"God divided the sea when Israel crossed through the Red Sea (see Exod 14–15).","14":"God used a cloud and a pillar of fire to guide and protect Israel in the wilderness (Exod 13:21-22).","33":"An entire generation died in the wilderness (Num 14:22-23, 28-35).","34":"They repented: This demonstration of zeal was not sincere.","60":"God abandoned his dwelling at Shiloh because of the people’s idol worship (1 Sam 4:11; Jer 7:12).","67":"The tribe of Ephraim was not completely rejected, but God favored Judah (78:68)."},"79":{"1":"your special possession: This phrase might refer to the land, the Temple (see 61:5), or the people (see 79:2; 78:71).","6":"The repentant among God’s people ask him to vent his anger not on them but on their wicked and unrepentant enemies.","8":"The people’s accumulation of past sins contributed to the Exile (2 Kgs 17:7-23; 24:3-4); however, the people perished because of their own sins (Jer 31:30; Ezek 18:20).","12":"The Exile resulted in national suffering and in individual searching for the Lord. • pay back: See 1:6; 94:2; Jer 32:18. • The expression seven times signifies something complete. • Israel’s neighbors included Edom, Moab, and Ammon (see Ps 137:7; 2 Kgs 24:2; Obad 1)."},"80":{"1":"title The tune “Lilies of the Covenant” is unknown today.","3":"This verse is repeated (with an increasing crescendo) in 80:7, 19.","12":"broken down our walls: God no longer defended Israel (Isa 5:5).","13":"The surrounding nations were ceremonially unclean, like a wild boar or vicious wild animals.","15":"Israel was the son that God had brought out of Egypt (see Hos 11:1) and planted in the Holy Land.","17":"The son of your choice was probably the northern kingdom of Israel, although it might allude to the king of David’s dynasty (110:1)."},"81":{"2":"An Israelite tambourine was a hand drum—a round frame covered with a skin, used as a percussion instrument during festivities, often to accompany dancing (68:25; 149:3; 150:4). • The sweet lyre and the harp, both stringed instruments, are the instruments most frequently mentioned in the psalms (e.g., 33:2; 57:8; 71:22; 150:3).","3":"The ram’s horn mustered armies and announced special holy days (47:5; 98:6). • new moon: The first day of the lunar month marked a festival.","5":"for Israel: Literally for Joseph. The tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh (the sons of Joseph) are used here to refer to the entire nation of Israel.","10":"God emphasizes that he and no one else rescued Israel. • The nation should open its mouth wide to take in God’s word (cp. Deut 8:3; Ezek 3:1)."},"82":{"1":"God presides and stands ready to render judgment (see Isa 3:13). • heaven’s court: See Job 1:6.","2":"Since justice marks God’s reign (89:4), he opposes favoring the wicked. So the psalmist is perplexed and cries out to God for justice (82:3-4, 8).","5":"The unjust oppressors cannot bring or restore order. They wander about in darkness, unmoved by circumstances even when the whole world order falls apart around them (cp. 11:3).","8":"The nations belong to God; he will take over the realms formerly ruled by local deities and give them to his people, just as he did with the Promised Land."},"83":{"7":"The Gebalites probably came from Gebal/Byblos on the coast of Lebanon. • The Amalekites were located south of Israel in the Negev. • Philistia was southwest of Judah, by the Mediterranean Sea. • Tyre was a port city on the Mediterranean, northwest of Israel.","8":"Assyria was northeast of Israel and north of the Persian Gulf. • The descendants of Lot were the Moabites and the Ammonites (83:6-7).","12":"The coalition’s motivation for wiping out Israel was to acquire the land (see Jer 3:19).","13":"tumbleweed . . . chaff: This dry plant material easily blows away (see Isa 17:13)."},"84":{"3":"The poet envies the birds that have nesting places in and around the Temple.","4":"The priests and Temple personnel lived in the Temple.","5":"Travelers needed strength to meet the challenges of pilgrimage by foot along unpaved paths, in all kinds of weather and with the possibility of assaults.","6":"The Valley of Weeping probably refers to the anguish that lonely pilgrims endured (see 23:4), rather than to an actual location. • refreshing springs . . . autumn rains: Even when pilgrims feel totally exhausted, the prospect of drawing near to the Lord renews their spirits (cp. Isa 35:6-10; 41:18-20; 43:17-20; 49:10).","9":"Both kings and priests were anointed to dedicate them for service (see 132:17; Exod 28:41; 1 Sam 9:16; 16:1-13; cp. Isa 61:1; Acts 10:38).","10":"The psalmist viewed being in God’s presence as much better than being anywhere else.","11":"Some people worshiped the sun as a god, but the true God provides all that anyone needs."},"85":{"1":"God restored the fortunes of Israel by bringing the nation back from exile (see 14:7; 126:1).","2":"When God forgave the guilt of their sins, he gave the people the possibility of fellowship with him (see 32:5).","13":"Righteousness is like a messenger preparing the world for God’s coming in response to the prayers of his people (85:4-7; 89:14)."},"86":{"1":"title This is the only psalm connected with David in Book Three.","5":"The psalmist recounts the catalog of divine perfections (Exod 34:6-7), especially God’s willingness to forgive sin (see Pss 32:5; 85:2; 145:7-10).","11":"The poet responds to the Lord by seeking faithful instruction in the truth. • An individual with purity of heart has integrity and wholeness (see 73:1).","15":"God has mercy on his people (51:1); he is gracious (25:6), slow to get angry (103:8; 145:8), and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness (Hebrew khesed and ’emeth; 143:1). This verse repeats a theme first expressed in Exod 34:7; Num 14:18 (cp. Pss 103:8; 145:8; Neh 9:17; Joel 2:13; Jon 4:2)."},"87":{"1":"Jerusalem was Israel’s capital and the location of the Temple, God’s earthly palace (see Ps 84).","4":"As great as Zion is, it will be even greater when it becomes an international city where believers from all the nations have citizenship. • God keeps a record of all who confess him as their Lord (Dan 7:10; Rev 13:8)."},"88":{"1":"title Heman the Ezrahite might be a sage from Solomon’s time (1 Kgs 4:31), a descendant of Judah (1 Chr 2:6), or a member of the Levitical family charged with singing at the Temple (1 Chr 15:17; 2 Chr 5:12).","18":"The psalmist restates his second and first charges."},"89":{"0":"title Ethan the Ezrahite was a wise man (1 Kgs 4:31; cp. Ps 88:title).","1":"God’s unfailing love gives reason to celebrate forever.","3":"The Lord has sworn by his own holiness (89:35; see 110:4).","5":"Praise for God’s greatness (see 8:1) comes from the inhabitants of heaven who witness his faithfulness.","6":"mightiest angel: Literally son of God (see study note on 29:1-2).","12":"Mount Tabor was in northern Israel. Mount Hermon formed the extreme northern border of the nation.","20":"I have anointed him: This is the verb from which anointed one (Hebrew mashiakh, “messiah”) is derived.","27":"David would be the most eminent of earthly kings. The Hebrew word translated mightiest is the same as the designation for God as “Most High” (‘elyon).","29":"The Lord writes his faithfulness in heaven, on the canvas of his universe (see 89:2). He records his commitment to the dynasty of David in the same way.","35":"holiness: The Lord is wholly distinct from the created order (22:3); his character is totally pure. He does as he pleases (115:3), and he chooses to be faithful (89:1; 115:1); therefore, he cannot lie.","38":"You are angry: The harshness of God’s wrath perplexes the psalmist.","40":"broken down the walls: The Lord’s people are completely vulnerable.","42":"Although the Lord promised to strengthen David, he secretly strengthened David’s enemies.","50":"The phrase your servants refers to the community loyal to the Lord.","52":"This doxology concludes all of Book Three (Pss 73–89); it is not intended to be read as part of Ps 89. It stands in stark contrast to the anguish and questioning of Ps 89. Cp. 41:13; 106:48."},"90":{"1":"title Moses led God’s people from slavery in Egypt to Mount Sinai, where he received the law and established God’s covenant with Israel. • the man of God: Moses enjoyed a special relationship with God (Deut 33:1).","2":"The Lord is the eternal God. • The Lord gave birth to the earth by creating it.","13":"The phrase your servants refers to the community of those loyal to the Lord.","15":"The psalmist calls upon the Lord to give the people gladness to replace their mourning (see 92:4-5).","16":"The children represent future generations in contrast to the generations past (90:1).","17":"Humans waste their efforts unless the Lord makes them successful (44:3)."},"91":{"1":"The Most High is an ancient title that expresses the Lord’s exalted status as the ruler and protector of the godly (see Gen 14:19).","3":"God protects the godly from deadly disease and even a destructive word.","4":"The armor might refer to a body shield, while protection refers to a small shield worn on the arm.","6":"The reference to disease represents any kind of affliction.","11":"he will order his angels: Satan cited these words when he tempted Jesus (Matt 4:6; Luke 4:10-11), but God makes this promise for those who obey him (Ps 91:14), not for those who arrogantly test him (Matt 4:4, 7).","14":"Those who love the Lord will obey him (Deut 30:20; 1 Jn 5:3) and seek his protection (Pss 91:1; 145:18).","15":"The Lord promises to answer the prayers of his people. • The Psalter often speaks of people honoring the Lord (50:15); here, God promises to honor the godly who risk everything for his sake (62:7; 71:21; 84:11).","16":"A long life on earth represents just a small part of the Lord’s goodness and eternal friendship (23:6)."},"92":{"1":"title on the Sabbath Day: Jewish tradition assigned one psalm to each day of the week: Sunday (Ps 24), Monday (Ps 48), Tuesday (Ps 82), Wednesday (Ps 94), Thursday (Ps 81), Friday (Ps 93), and the Sabbath (Ps 92). This is the only psalm that indicates this use in its title.","7":"Even when the ungodly seem to grow luxuriantly (73:3-5), they have no future (92:9; see 1:6; 90:5-6; Isa 40:6-8).","8":"The transcendent Lord stays above the world of human experience. From this exalted place, he rules and judges (7:7), celebrates his victories (68:18; see Ps 47), comes to rescue the needy (102:19), brings an end to the wicked (92:7-8), and receives praise (148:1).","10":"as strong as a wild ox: The Lord allows the psalmist to share his exaltation (92:8), thus ensuring victory.","12":"Carvings of palm trees (1 Kgs 6:29, 32, 35; 7:36) adorned the Temple, and builders made rich use of cedars (1 Kgs 5:6). The trees represent the godly, who are planted in the very courts of the Temple.","13":"The Temple area consisted of the Lord’s own house and the courts that surrounded it.","15":"There is no evil in him! The Lord is consistently just; he rightly judges everyone (see Zeph 3:5)."},"93":{"1":"robed in majesty: The Lord stands victorious both before and after battle (see 45:3).","5":"Through his stable rule and royal laws, the Lord orders the world. • Your reign (literally your house): The house from which God reigns might be the Lord’s heavenly palace or the earthly Temple."},"94":{"2":"Just as the Lord’s enemies rise up against him and his people (3:7; 93:3), he must arise and make retribution against the enemy (see 79:12; Isa 65:6).","6":"widows . . . foreigners . . . orphans: The Lord’s law protects needy people (Deut 24:17; 27:19), but they remain vulnerable in society.","7":"The wicked think that they can get away with their vile acts and speech, foolishly assuming that God isn’t looking or doesn’t care.","9":"It is preposterous that those with ears and eyes would imagine their Creator to be deaf and blind.","10":"punishes: This word also carries the idea of “warns” (2:10), “disciplines” (6:1; 94:12), or “instructs” (16:7). The Lord disciplines his people to purify their character (Prov 3:11-12; Heb 12:6-11). He punishes his enemies by giving them what they deserve (Ps 1:6; Rom 6:23).","11":"While the Lord’s thoughts are deep, people’s thoughts are worthless (cp. 92:5; 1 Cor 3:20).","13":"God’s relief includes his comfort and rescue.","14":"Even when it seems that he has, the Lord will not reject his people.","16":"Only God has the power to stand up to the wicked (see 2:2)."},"95":{"3":"above all gods: The psalmist refutes idolatry and paganism (96:4-6; 135:15-18; see also Isa 46:5-7).","8":"To harden your hearts means to be stubborn and resist the Lord’s grace (see Num 20:2-13; see also Matt 13:3-23; John 12:37-43; Eph 4:17-32; Heb 3:6-19; 4:6-11).","9":"Israel’s ancestors . . . saw the wonders of the Lord, but they foolishly did not try to grasp their significance (see 92:5-6).","11":"The generation of Israel that wandered in the wilderness for forty years failed to enter the place of rest that Israel enjoyed after the conquest of the land (1 Kgs 8:56; see Deut 12:9). The Lord promised them the land and gave it to them (Isa 28:12), but they did not obey him (Isa 28:1). The warning reminds every generation of the need to obey in faith. • The rest that God provides includes peace, provision, and protection (Ps 132:14-18). The author of Hebrews challenged a new generation to enter the rest provided by Jesus Christ (Heb 3:7–4:13)."},"96":{"1":"Three psalms open with the exhortation to sing a new song (Pss 96, 98, 149); the song celebrates the Lord’s universal kingship (see 33:3).","4":"Great is the Lord! . . . most worthy of praise: With this refrain, the poet exalts the Lord over all the gods (95:3) and nations (99:2). He inspires awe more than anyone or anything else (76:7, 12; 89:7; 99:3; 111:9). He is beyond human possession or comprehension. The story of what he does to redeem his people causes them to praise him.","5":"The Lord made the heavens, an even greater task than creating the earth. The idols, made by human hands (115:4), created nothing.","6":"Honor and majesty: The Lord is glorious (96:6; 104:1; 148:13), and so are his works in nature (8:1) and in redemption (111:3; 145:5).","7":"nations of the world (literally families of the nations): Families and clans represent subdivisions of the nations (see Gen 12:3). • The nations must respond to the Lord’s glory (Pss 8:1; 19:1-4; 24:7).","8":"The courts of God’s sanctuary were usually off-limits to non-Jewish people. In this psalm the nations of the world—the non-Jews—are invited in (65:4; 84:2, 10; 100:4; 116:19; 135:2; Isa 1:12).","9":"Worshipers should tremble in awe (96:4; see 18:7-15; 97:4) at the splendor of the Lord’s majesty and holiness (Heb 12:25).","10":"The Lord’s coming means the end of injustice. He rules fairly (9:8; 96:13; 98:9) and inaugurates an era of harmony and order not experienced since Eden. • The Lord’s reign over the world is founded on the strong pillars of “righteousness and justice” (89:14), so it cannot be shaken (cp. 11:3).","12":"All of nature will experience renewal in God’s presence (65:13; 72:6, 16; Isa 44:23; 55:12; Rom 8:21-22)."},"97":{"1":"The farthest coastlands represent the most remote parts of the world.","6":"As the Lord enters the world, the testimony of his righteousness resounds from above (50:6). • Every nation will view the open display of the Lord’s glory (see 8:1; 19:1-4a; 24:7; Isa 40:5).","7":"At the Lord’s coming, when every god must bow to him, those who worship other gods will face their own folly (see 95:3-5).","11":"The godly people of integrity (see Prov 2:7, 21; 3:32; 11:6, 11; 14:2), whose hearts are right, maintain a relationship with the Lord and with others (Pss 94:15; 125:4). The wicked plan the downfall of the godly (11:2), but the Lord rescues them (11:1; 36:10). Then the sorrows of the godly turn to joy and praise (32:11; 64:10; 111:1; 119:7)."},"98":{"6":"The Temple musicians used trumpets to call people together for meetings (cp. 81:3)."},"99":{"1":"It is fitting to tremble and quake in response to the Lord’s holiness (see 96:9). • The throne between the cherubim refers to the cover of the Ark of the Covenant (Exod 25:17-22).","4":"The qualities of the Lord’s rule include strength, justice, love, fairness, and righteousness (see 93:4; 97:2, 6-7, 12; 98:2-3, 9; 138:6).","6":"Moses and Samuel were great models and leaders who had prayed on behalf of the Lord’s people (Exod 32:31-32; 1 Sam 12:23).","7":"The Lord spoke to Moses and Aaron from the pillar of cloud (Exod 33:9; Num 12:5-6), and for a time, the people responded to the revelation."},"100":{"3":"The Lord is the one who determines who his people are. • the sheep of his pasture: God will guide and protect his people (23:1, 4).","4":"Gates and courts were part of the Temple in Jerusalem."},"101":{"2":"in my own home (literally in my house): This commitment to integrity might refer to private life at home. Some interpreters view my house as referring to the king’s palace; the commitment would then refer to the policies of his administration. • Leading a life of integrity means choosing a wise lifestyle.","6":"The psalmist surrounds himself with people who are also committed to integrity (101:2)."},"102":{"3":"Smoke is an image of transitory life (37:20; 68:2). • The psalmist’s bones represent his whole being (see 6:2; 34:19-22).","4":"Like dried grass, the psalmist senses his life ebbing away.","5":"skin and bones: The psalmist has wasted away because of his anguish (see 102:9; 109:24).","6":"The owl was associated with ruin and desolation (Isa 34:11, 15).","10":"The psalmist blames the Lord for his troubles.","11":"The psalmist’s existence seems empty and transitory (102:4; 109:23; 144:4).","12":"forever . . . to every generation: The frailty of humans (102:3-11) contrasts with the permanence of the Lord.","13":"Now is the time for the Lord to restore Jerusalem from exile (see 75:2; Jer 29:10; Dan 9:1-19).","17":"The people of Israel were destitute (or naked) during the Exile.","18":"Let this be recorded: The written record stands as a memorial to the Lord’s goodness.","19":"The heavenly sanctuary refers to God’s holy place on high (see 92:8-10).","22":"The multitudes—both Jews and Gentiles—will join in the worship of the Lord (see 96:7, 9; 106:48; Isa 2:2-4; 43:10-13; 57:15; 60:3-7).","24":"The psalmist draws a contrast between his days (102:23) and God’s years (cp. 90:4).","28":"The Lord’s presence provides the basis for the security and happiness of his people (23:6)."},"103":{"9":"If the Lord were to constantly accuse or remain angry forever, no one would be left (see Isa 54:7-8; 57:16).","13":"The Lord is like a father to his children: This analogy forms the basis for Jesus’ teaching about God’s fatherhood (see Matt 5:43-48; 6:1; 10:19-20; 12:50; Luke 6:36; 12:29-32; John 8:31-59; 15:1-8; see also 2 Sam 7:14; Jer 3:19; 31:9; Mal 1:6; 2 Cor 6:16-18).","18":"To obey God means to be faithful and loyal to him.","22":"God’s kingdom extends over all things, so all things are called to praise the Lord. • The concluding phrase takes us back to 103:1-2."},"104":{"1":"Let all that I am praise the Lord: Pss 103 and 104 each open and close with this commitment to praise (103:1-2, 22; 104:1, 35). • how great you are! This acclamation expresses praise for rescue (see also 35:27; 40:16; 70:4).","3":"This poetic portrayal envisions the clouds as beams that support heaven.","4":"Wind and lightning are seen as divine messengers. The Lord uses weather phenomena as he desires (77:17-18; 78:26; 135:7; 148:5-6). • The psalmist interacts with day three of creation (Gen 1:9-13). The Lord is master of water and earth.","6":"At first, water covered the earth.","7":"The Lord created dry ground on day three of creation (Gen 1:9-13).","8":"The earth originates in God’s will.","9":"The Lord set a firm boundary for the seas to protect the land. God’s sovereignty over sea and land was an argument against the existence of Baal, whom the Canaanites celebrated as victorious over the waters (see Ps 29).","14":"people to use: People are the managers of the created order, and they receive nourishment from the work of their hands.","15":"While both can be misused (cp. Prov 21:17), the Lord provides wine and olive oil as gifts to enhance life. Life is sustained by basic food, represented by bread.","19":"the moon to mark the seasons: Ancient Israel based its calendar on the cycles of the moon. • the sun knows when to set: This is a poetic description from the perspective of normal observation. The sun goes down at a regular time every evening.","25":"The ocean, . . . teeming with life of every kind (see Gen 1:20-21), exemplifies the Lord’s creative activities.","26":"ships sailing: Commercial vessels engaged in sea trade were one of the wonders of the ancient Near East (see Isa 2:16; 23:1, 3). • Leviathan: The psalmist says that this feared creature is nothing but the Lord’s pet.","31":"The Lord reveals his presence in the created order (see 8:1; 19:1-4; 24:7) and takes pleasure in his new creation (see Isa 65:19).","32":"The trembling earth and the smoking mountains represent the Lord’s coming in judgment against sinners and salvation for his faithful people (see 18:7-15).","35":"The Lord will remove all forms of evil that defile his creation. • The concluding phrase takes us back to 104:1 (see also 103:1-2, 22; 146:1)."},"105":{"8":"The covenant is the Lord’s irrevocable oath to be the Father of Abraham and his descendants (see Gen 12:1-9; 15:1-21).","11":"God promised the land of Canaan to Abraham’s descendants as their special possession, where they could live as God’s people (105:44-45; Gen 12:7; 15:7-21).","15":"Abraham was one of the nation’s prophets (Gen 20:7).","19":"tested Joseph’s character: See Gen 39:6-12.","23":"Egypt (Hebrew mitsrayim) is called the land of Ham.","37":"not one . . . stumbled: The Lord protected all of his people (cp. 9:3).","39":"The Lord’s presence was as evident to all as a fire in the darkness (Exod 13:22).","44":"Canaan was a land of pagan nations (see 111:6). The psalmist might also be reflecting on God’s promise to Abraham (Gen 24:60) regarding the lands given to Isaac (Gen 26:3).","45":"The Lord planned for Israel to testify about him by obeying him; Israel was to be his model people."},"106":{"1":"Praise the Lord! This refrain (Hebrew haleluyah) characterizes four small subgroups in the psalms: 104–106, 111–113, 115–117, 146–150.","6":"The story of Israel’s redemption encompasses their sinful response from the days of the ancestors to the present (106:43). The themes of sin and divine wrath both open and close Book Four (90:1-9; 106:6, 23, 43).","9":"Red Sea: See Exod 14:15-31.","13":"They wouldn’t wait: God’s impatient people did not trust him to work according to his will (e.g., see Exod 15:24; 16:2-3; 17:1-3; Num 14:26-45; 21:4-9).","15":"he sent a plague: See Exod 32:35; Num 11:33.","22":"The land of Ham here means Egypt (106:21).","28":"the worship of Baal at Peor: See Num 25:3; Deut 4:3.","34":"Israel continued to disobey the word of the Lord while living in the Promised Land. Rather than destroying the nations, Israel accepted them and their ways (see Judg 2:1-3, 11-15; 3:5-6).","37":"Pagan gods were demons (see Deut 32:17).","39":"Idolatry, like adultery, defiles God’s people (see Lev 18:24; Hos 5:3).","40":"God abhorred Israel’s sin, as he does all sin.","45":"He remembered . . . and relented: Unlike Israel, the Lord is faithful to his covenant (105:8).","46":"As harsh as the Exile was, the Lord still protected his people (see 2 Kgs 25:27-29).","47":"Gather us back: The community prays for restoration from exile (see 102:19-22; 107:3; see also Isa 11:12; 40:11; 43:5; 54:7; 56:8; 66:18).","48":"This doxology concludes Book Four (cp. 41:13; 89:52). • from everlasting to everlasting! The reference to God’s eternal nature links to the opening of Book Four (90:1-2). • Let all the people say, “Amen!”: The Hebrew word ’amen means “It is true.” The godly accept the Lord’s will in exile and his promise to be their God."},"107":{"2":"The redeemed might be all who came out of exile.","3":"exiles: People came from all nations where the people of Israel and Judah had been scattered.","6":"The psalmist does not specify the occasion of his trouble and distress. The generic nature of the adversity permits readers in a variety of circumstances to identify with the laments.","11":"God’s counsel includes his instruction and will.","12":"Exhausted by their hard labor (Lam 5:13), the people fell. While this might be expected of the wicked (Pss 9:3; 27:2), it was unlike the Israelites’ flight from Egypt (105:37).","20":"The Lord creates (Gen 1:3) and sustains the universe (Heb 1:3) simply by speaking (Ps 147:18); when he speaks, people are also healed (Matt 8:8).","32":"This call for public praise expands the refrains in 107:21-22 and 107:31.","38":"God’s presence can be seen in the abundance of his people’s families and herds (127:3; 133:3; cp. 109:8).","39":"People often become impoverished when their rulers practice oppression.","40":"In his contempt for human rulers, the Lord rectifies their corruption on earth.","41":"The large families of the poor are evidence of God’s blessing."},"109":{"1":"The psalmist sees no evidence that God cares (see 28:1).","8":"The wicked person apparently held a position of leadership. Peter referred to this psalm in regard to Judas Iscariot (Acts 1:20-26).","13":"If one’s family name was blotted out, it meant there was no offspring to carry on the family name or remember its history (see Prov 10:7).","14":"Children inherit the sinful nature of their parents (51:5; Exod 20:5; Eph 2:3). The speaker wants the Lord to punish the perpetrator for the guilt of family members who went before him (cp. Matt 23:35-36).","16":"The defendant committed capital crimes and did not exercise even basic decency.","18":"Cursing is the accused person’s whole way of life.","20":"The psalmist appeals to the principle of retribution (see 94:23).","21":"The Lord’s reputation is at stake. If the wicked triumph, others could think that the Lord is also wicked and be drawn to that wickedness (1:1).","23":"A shadow at dusk suggests a transitory, empty existence (102:11; 144:4); a single locust could easily be brushed off one’s clothing.","28":"The Lord’s servant demonstrates loyalty and obedience.","29":"The psalmist had been accused of being clothed with curses (109:18); now he asks that his accusers be clothed with disgrace and humiliation."},"110":{"1":"The king of Israel had the great privilege of being the Lord’s adopted son (Ps 2; 1 Chr 22:10), but he fell (Ps 89). This decree restores and heightens his position. • The Lord: Hebrew Yahweh, the name of God (see Exod 3:6-14; 6:2-8; 20:2). • my Lord (Hebrew ’adoni) means “my master” or “my superior.” The psalmist viewed God’s messianic ruler as his superior. The New Testament frequently cites this psalm to validate Jesus’ claim to be the Messiah (Matt 22:44-45; Mark 12:36-37; Luke 20:42-44; Acts 2:34-35; Heb 1:13). • The Lord’s right hand represents his authority, strength, presence, and benefits. The Lord chose the descendant of David and raised him up to be close to him (Ps 80:17). Jesus claimed this position for himself (Matt 26:64; Mark 14:62; 16:19; Luke 22:69), and the apostles announced that Jesus, having ascended to heaven, sits at the right hand of the Father (Acts 2:33; 5:31; 7:55-56; Rom 8:34; Eph 1:20; Col 3:1; Heb 1:3; 8:1; 10:12; 12:2). • Ancient Near Eastern kings were sometimes portrayed as placing their feet on the backs of their conquered enemies as on a footstool (see Heb 10:12-13).","4":"The Lord had made an unbreakable oath and covenant, so his apparent rejection of David’s dynasty (89:38) in the Exile had led to a crisis. The placement of Ps 110 in Book Five reaffirms the future of the dynasty: David’s descendant must conform to God’s standard of integrity (Ps 101). His ministry will be transformed as he serves under God’s kingship (Pss 93–100). • You are a priest forever: The role of God’s messianic ruler changes. The priestly kingship of David and his descendants extended to serving as patrons of the Temple. David had the Ark brought to Jerusalem (2 Sam 6:15) and arranged for the Temple service (1 Chr 6:31-48; 15:11-26; 16:4-42; 23:4-32; 25:1). Solomon supervised the Temple construction (1 Kgs 5:1–7:51). Even so, Israel’s kingship was separate from its priesthood. In the messianic kingdom, the king would also minister as priest, as Melchizedek, king of Salem (Gen 14:18), had done. The New Testament develops the ministry of Jesus Christ as a fulfillment of this new order (see Heb 5:6-10; 6:20–7:25).","7":"God’s messianic ruler obtains victory as a vigorous person, as if he had received nourishment from brooks along the way (110:3)."},"111":{"5":"God takes care of his people’s needs, even providing food. He remembers his covenant with Abraham (see 105:8-11).","9":"The people of the Exodus generation went free because of God’s grace.","10":"True wisdom is the source of life (Prov 3:18; 9:11; Eccl 7:12); it begins with the fear of the Lord (Prov 9:10)."},"112":{"6":"The honesty and compassion of the wise keeps them from stumbling (15:5; 37:23-24), ensuring that they will be long remembered (Prov 10:7).","8":"Because the godly joyfully expect God to prevail and rescue them, they face their foes triumphantly (59:10; 112:4; 118:7).","9":"Paul quotes this verse in his instructions about generous giving (2 Cor 9:9).","10":"The wicked . . . grind their teeth in anger out of their bitter envy (35:16; 37:12). The vigor and reputation of the godly cause conflict with those who want them dead. • The wicked will slink away out of fear and shame."},"113":{"4":"The Lord’s glory reaches to the heavens (57:5, 11; 99:2; 108:5; 138:6; Isa 6:1; 57:15) and throughout the world of human relationships.","6":"The Lord stoops to the world’s level to be directly involved with his people (see 138:6; Phil 2:6-8).","9":"A childless woman was customarily treated with disdain (Gen 16:4); the Lord has the power to make her a happy mother, as he made Sarah (Gen 21:2), Rebekah (Gen 25:21), Rachel (Gen 30:23), and Hannah (1 Sam 1:20). • God’s greatness and goodness provide ample reason to praise him."},"114":{"8":"The Lord miraculously provided for his people in hard times after the Exile, just as he had done in the wilderness after the Exodus."},"115":{"8":"Worshiping idols leads one astray and corrupts those who trust in them (Isa 44:20)."},"116":{"1":"I love the Lord: This unique opening expresses affection for and commitment to the Lord (see 18:1; Deut 6:5) on the basis of what the Lord has done.","2":"Because the Lord responds to the cry of his people (107:41; 113:6-8), the psalmist now strongly believes in prayer.","3":"It isn’t clear if the psalmist’s crisis was a literal near-death experience or if he was using the term figuratively.","4":"This is the first of three times that the psalmist calls on the Lord’s name (i.e., reputation).","6":"People with childlike faith readily receive his wisdom and instruction (19:7-11; Matt 18:3-4).","9":"I walk in the Lord’s presence: The psalmist already lived with integrity, but since his experience of deep distress, he now enjoys open fellowship with the Lord (see 56:13; cp. Job 42:5).","10":"I believed in you: Paul quotes this phrase in 2 Cor 4:13."},"117":{"1":"Paul quotes this verse to show that Gentiles would eventually praise the God of Israel (Rom 15:11)."},"118":{"22":"The cornerstone (or keystone) of a building or an arch gives the structure its shape and foundation. It is the most important of all the stones. The Lord chooses and places this stone for his sanctuary (Isa 28:16). Jesus referred to himself as this cornerstone (Matt 21:42; Mark 12:10-11; Luke 20:17; see Acts 4:11; Eph 2:20; 1 Pet 2:6-7).","24":"This is the day the Lord has made: The day of the Lord’s victory has already arrived, although its completion awaits another day (118:25).","26":"The one who comes in the name of the Lord brings the Lord’s complete victory (see 118:10-12). • During Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the crowds called out various blessings, including phrases taken from this verse (Matt 21:9; Mark 11:9; Luke 19:38; John 12:13). Jesus himself quoted this passage as he wept over Jerusalem (Matt 23:39; Luke 13:35)."},"119":{"4":"To keep God’s commandments means to guard them by obeying them.","9":"A young person tends toward foolishness (Prov 22:15) and can easily make mistakes that destroy his life (Prov 7:6-23). Youth is also the best time to develop personal discipline and pursue wisdom (see Ps 34:11; Prov 1:4). • To stay pure means to remain uncorrupted by wickedness and sin and to develop the integrity of life defined in Ps 15.","10":"The student asks God the teacher to discipline him so that he will not wander.","14":"God’s wisdom is far greater than any riches humans seek (119:72, 127; Prov 3:14-15).","15":"The way of wisdom includes meditating on God’s ways (see 119:1, 3). The wise reflect on the implications of God’s word.","29":"lying to myself: Self-deception is a fruit of sinful human nature (Jer 17:9); it leads to folly. • Access to God’s word is a privilege, not a right.","36":"The love for money can lead to sin (cp. Exod 18:21; 1 Tim 3:1-5; 6:10).","52":"The age-old regulations are the Torah (God’s “instructions” or “law”), a term that refers to the books of Genesis—Deuteronomy.","61":"Evil people try to drag him into sin, but the psalmist’s memory of God’s word keeps him standing firm (see 119:16).","64":"God’s goodness fills the earth; the whole created order provides evidence of his goodness (see Isa 6:3; 11:9).","95":"The wicked intended to kill the psalmist, but destruction (1:6) was their own fate.","96":"Even perfection has its limits: Humans cannot fully understand God’s ways (see Eccl 3:11).","113":"The godly hate the wicked and their deeds (5:4-6; cp. Ezek 33:11).","125":"Simply possessing God’s law does not provide any benefits. The psalmist knows that only as the Lord gives discernment will he understand it.","139":"The psalmist’s indignation (cp. 69:9) comes from seeing the wicked disregard God’s word.","141":"The psalmist is greatly troubled by his oppressors (see 119:143; cp. Isa 53).","176":"God, the Great Shepherd, seeks out his lost sheep (23:1; Luke 15:4-6)."},"120":{"5":"Meshech was a Japhethite territory far to the north of Canaan. Kedar was an Ishmaelite territory in Arabia. Violent people lived in both locations. Meshech was the home of a famous slave trade (Ezek 27:13; cp. Exod 21:16) and Kedar of renowned warriors (Isa 21:16-17). These places can be understood as representative of the apostate, violent land where the psalmist suffered."},"121":{"1":"The mountains were known for their idolatrous worship (Deut 12:2), and Israel was enticed to the hilltop shrines (Hos 4:13). This verse can be understood as a rhetorical question expecting a negative answer: The gods of the hilltop shrines cannot rescue anyone. Others understand the mountains to be a symbol of the Lord’s strength (Ps 95:4). In that case, the question would be interpreted literally (Where does my help come from?), with the answer given in the next verse","4":"God watches over his own, even and especially when they face many troubles (12:5, 7; 69:29; 91:14; 146:9)."},"122":{"1":"The central sanctuary was the house of the Lord. This phrase originally referred to the Tabernacle (Exod 23:19; 34:26).","2":"Several psalms celebrate or look forward to being inside the gates of the city (9:14; 87:2; 100:4; 118:19).","3":"In the time of David and Solomon, Jerusalem was renowned as a place of security (1 Kgs 10:6-7).","4":"Each of the people of Israel belonged to one of the tribes, and all of the tribes belonged to the Lord. • To give thanks is to present an offering acceptable to the Lord (50:14, 23; 100:4; 118:19). • as the law requires of Israel: See Exod 23:17; Deut 16:16.","5":"the thrones where judgment is given: In the eras of David and Solomon (1 Kgs 3:28), Jerusalem was the home of wisdom and justice; it would be so again (Isa 9:7)."},"125":{"2":"surrounds: God guards and protects like a wall of fire (Zech 2:5).","3":"The godly might be tempted through peer pressure and cultural domination."},"128":{"3":"Like vigorous young olive trees, children are saplings filled with potential. Olive oil symbolizes God’s blessing (104:15; Num 18:12; Jer 31:12; Hag 2:19)."},"130":{"3":"The psalmist knows that his sins make him guilty and deserving of God’s judgment.","5":"God’s word imparts hope (119:42-43, 49; 147:11)."},"131":{"1":"The heart represents the whole being (see 27:8). • God hates arrogance, which is a foolish way of life (Prov 6:16-19). • The psalmist does not trouble himself with matters that properly belong to the Lord.","2":"The psalmist calmed and quieted himself, surrendering his ambitions and taming his ego (Gal 2:20). • like a weaned child: The psalmist sees himself as a contented child."},"132":{"6":"Ephrathah is Bethlehem (Gen 35:19; 48:7). • Jaar is the singular form of the plural “Jearim.” The Ark was at Kiriath-jearim for twenty years in Samuel’s time (1 Sam 7:1-2).","9":"The priests were to exhibit righteousness in their lives (132:16; Mal 2:6).","17":"anointed one: The ruler God chose and established (see Pss 1–8) would never cease to provide light for the Lord’s people. This light would burn continually (see 1 Kgs 11:36; 2 Kgs 8:19; cp. John 8:12; Rev 21:23-24).","18":"The adversaries will be humiliated, in contrast to the glorious king (132:9, 16)."},"133":{"1":"Brothers are related by blood, by profession, or by commitment.","2":"The anointing oil was the oil used to ordain and consecrate Aaron for service in his office (see Exod 29:7). • head . . . beard . . . border of his robe: The oil consecrated Aaron completely.","3":"The dew represents the richness of divine blessings; in Jerusalem, it comes from moist winds from the Mediterranean Sea. Mount Hermon, which is capped with snow, is a place of abundant moisture. • A blessing is God’s life-giving power, a guarantee of his provision and protection (5:12; 41:2), secured by his presence (21:6; 67:1). Even the other nations will ultimately be blessed (Pss 67; 72:17). Zion is the focal point of God’s blessing (134:3; 147:13). • God gives life everlasting to human beings."},"135":{"4":"The synonyms Jacob and Israel include all twelve tribes. The Lord cherishes his chosen people. They are his treasure out of all the kingdoms of the world (Exod 19:5-6).","5":"The Lord is superior to any real or imagined supernatural being (see 95:3-5; 115:4-8).","6":"God is sovereign over the whole created order—he does whatever pleases him him. • The phrase heaven and earth refers to all of creation.","7":"The psalmist tells of God’s sovereignty over the weather (Pss 29; 77:17-18; 78:26; 104:4; 147:8-9; 148:5-6)."},"136":{"25":"The Lord provides for all of his creatures.","26":"The phrase God of heaven is an exilic and postexilic designation for the Lord; it is found in Ezra (Ezra 1:2; 5:11, 12; 6:9, 10; 7:12; etc.), Nehemiah (Neh 1:5; 2:4, 20; etc.), and Daniel (Dan 2:18, 19, 37, 44)."},"138":{"6":"God’s holiness and excellence are great, beyond the scope of humanity (see 99:2; 113:4; Isa 6:1; 57:15).","8":"The psalmist expresses confidence in the Lord’s plans, which are perfect, and prays for God’s continued involvement. The psalmist sees himself as part of God’s plans (see 9:10; 139:14)."},"139":{"2":"The phrase sit down or stand up refers to daily activities (cp. Deut 6:6-9).","6":"The Lord’s wonderful understanding lies beyond the psalmist’s ability to comprehend (see Judg 13:18).","8":"down to the grave: God has total access to his entire creation—even the most hard-to-reach places.","9":"ride the wings of the morning: This poetic expression describes traveling eastward, as far as the sunrise, if that were possible. • the farthest oceans: This expression takes the traveler in the opposite direction, far to the west.","13":"The delicate, inner parts of the body include a person’s very being. • Even when hidden in his mother’s womb, the psalmist was guided by the Lord.","17":"How precious are your thoughts about me: God’s investigation reveals loving care. Fellowship with the Lord provides riches beyond description.","21":"I hate: Rejection of evil is a mark of wisdom (see 1:1; 5:4-6).","24":"The path of wisdom leads to everlasting life (see 1:6; Prov 4:18; 6:23)."},"140":{"3":"sting like a snake . . . a viper: These creatures depict the wicked as very corrupt people (see Prov 23:32; Isa 14:29; Rom 3:13).","7":"The expression Sovereign Lord comes from combining the name Yahweh with the title Adonai (Master). See also 68:20; 69:6; 71:16; 73:28; 109:21; 141:8.","10":"The psalmist wants fire to descend on his enemies, and he wants them thrown into pits so they can never attack again. The language foreshadows the New Testament teaching on hell (Matt 5:22, 29-30; 10:28; 18:9; Mark 9:43-47; Luke 12:5; Jas 3:6; 2 Pet 2:4)."},"142":{"5":"Though he is alone, the psalmist’s trust remains in the Lord, who is his life (see 9:9; 16:5; 27:13).","7":"His experience of confinement and duress is like being in prison (see 107:10)."},"143":{"2":"All people are guilty before God (Rom 3:20-24).","6":"The psalmist’s thirst is a deep longing for God’s redemption (see 42:1-2).","7":"The psalmist experiences depression. He feels that he is dying from anguish (31:10; 119:87), exhausted (39:10; 71:9; 119:81), fainting with longing (84:2), and overwhelmed by the weariness of life (90:7, 9).","11":"To preserve means in this case to restore from despair (80:19; 85:6; 138:7).","12":"A prayer for vindication and renewal of life concludes the psalm."},"144":{"12":"The psalmist compares sons and daughters to plants and pillars, which are images of strength and beauty."},"145":{"20":"The Lord cares for those who love him and fear him. God-fearers love the Lord and find refuge in him (5:11); they seek him as their only true Savior (40:16; 70:4). They will experience a grand future (69:36), as well as God’s peace (119:165)."},"146":{"1":"This verse is reminiscent of 103:1, 2, 22; 104:1, 35."},"147":{"1":"This verse is a call to worship.","6":"God measures out his justice on the poor and on the wicked (55:22; 140:12; 145:14; 146:7).","8":"God holds sovereign power over the weather (77:17-18; 78:26; 104:4; 148:5-6).","13":"The bars of the city gates symbolize defenses against enemies. • God blessed his people by empowering them with safety, prosperity, peace, and provisions (see 133:3)."},"148":{"1":"During Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, the crowds called out various blessings, including a phrase taken from this verse (Matt 21:9; Mark 11:10; Luke 19:38).","6":"The created order is stable because of the Lord’s word (see 33:9).","8":"In the ancient Near East, people viewed different gods as having control over separate aspects of nature. The Lord, however, reigns sovereign over all natural phenomena; all the parts of creation are his servants, bringing praise to him through their obedience (77:17-18; 104:4; 135:7; 147:8, 15-18; Num 11:31)."},"149":{"4":"God’s people, whom the world ignores and despises, will be vindicated (Matt 19:30). The humble will experience victory over their oppressors and persecutors (see Isa 61:3)."},"150":{"1":"The phrase mighty heaven alludes to Gen 1 and to God’s glorious work in filling the emptiness.","6":"Praise the Lord: This refrain is a fitting conclusion to the entire book of Psalms."}},"ranges":[{"start_chapter":1,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":8,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Psalms 1 and 8 form an inclusio (set of literary bookends) that describes what God expects of the ideal person (cp. Pss 19; 33; 104; 145), contrasts the godly person with the wicked, and extols the godly person’s dignity. Jesus the Messiah (Ps 2)—the sovereign Lord (Heb 2:6-8; see 1 Cor 15:27) and perfection of humanity—embodies this ideal."},{"start_chapter":1,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":2,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The first two psalms are an introduction to the entire Psalter. Psalm 1 introduces the Lord’s instruction in wisdom, while Ps 2 introduces God’s rule over a rebellious, sinful world. Together, these psalms invite people to leave the way of folly that leads to destruction and to enter the way of God that leads to wisdom and salvation. The New Testament affirms that God will rule the nations through Jesus Christ, his appointed agent (Heb 1:5; Rev 12:5; 19:15)."},{"start_chapter":1,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":1,"end_verse":6,"contents":"This wisdom psalm sets the tone for the whole Psalter. The psalmist strongly contrasts the happiness of the godly with the condemnation of the wicked; in the end, the way of wisdom will triumph. This idealization of the godly person (as in Ps 8) highlights the Lord’s expectations of his people and especially of the coming Messiah (Ps 2). The people of Israel did not live up to this ideal, and neither did the kings of David’s dynasty. Not even the best of them could bring in the triumph of righteousness described in Psalms 1, 2, and 72. In the New Testament, the apostles’ use of the Psalter to describe the life and ministry of Jesus the Messiah confirms that Jesus alone fulfills the ideal of the godly person presented in the psalms. Only Jesus could please God and secure redemption, happiness, and peace. Psalm 1 introduces the hopeful anticipation of the final hallelujah (Ps 150), when the Lord will remove all evil from his creation and prosper his children."},{"start_chapter":1,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":1,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The Lord gives true happiness to all who reject evil and delight in him."},{"start_chapter":1,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":1,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The future belongs to the godly."},{"start_chapter":2,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":2,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This royal psalm pertains to the Lord’s appointment of a king descended from David. It celebrates the mission of all the kings in David’s line, and it introduces the hope of an ideal ruler who will accomplish the Lord’s goal of bringing all nations into submission (2:11) or to destruction (2:9). The New Testament identifies Jesus as this descendant (see Acts 13:33; 1 Cor 15:25-27; Heb 1:5; 5:5; Rev 19:15)."},{"start_chapter":2,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":2,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Their futile paths lead to death (1:4, 6), but fallen human beings unite in opposing the true God and his Messiah."},{"start_chapter":2,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":2,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Lord finds the human threat insignificant. He provided a solution long before their rebellion. He will end their agitation through the appointment of a human agent, a descendant of David’s line who will rule the nations."},{"start_chapter":2,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":2,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The Lord adopted the king of David’s dynasty to conquer rebellious nations by force (see 89:26-27)."},{"start_chapter":2,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":2,"end_verse":12,"contents":"rejoice: Rulers must welcome the Son as their true and only King. • Submit to God’s royal son (or Submit to God’s royal Son, or kiss the son): Kissing was an expression of submission (Hos 13:2). • The Lord gives joy to all who fear him (Ps 1:1-2) and trust him (18:30; 34:22; 119:1-3)."},{"start_chapter":3,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":7,"end_verse":17,"contents":"This group of psalms moves readers from the orderly world of Pss 1–2 to a disoriented one. The Lord’s anointed cries out while facing enemies, ferocious opposition, evil schemes, and the Lord’s apparent distance."},{"start_chapter":3,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":3,"end_verse":8,"contents":"This psalm laments that the expectations raised by Pss 1–2 have not been met. But even when beset by enemies, godly people need not question the Lord’s just dealings. Rather, they can confidently trust his goodness and expect God to rescue them."},{"start_chapter":3,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":3,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist’s many enemies speak brashly (4:6; 12:4; 40:15) and question the Lord’s ability to rescue (10:11; 22:7-8; 71:10). Their words haunt him because it seems that the Lord will not answer his prayer. • These enemies wield great power (cp. 2:1-3); unlike Ps 2, this psalm does not resolve the crisis."},{"start_chapter":3,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":3,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist’s eyes turn from his enemies to the Lord."},{"start_chapter":3,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":3,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist does not seek revenge; instead, he waits for the Lord’s vengeance. • Arise: The psalmist calls upon the Lord to take action now."},{"start_chapter":4,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":4,"end_verse":8,"contents":"This individual lament includes a prayer for rescue (4:1), a rebuke of the adversary (4:2-3), an exhortation to the godly (4:4-5), and an expression of confidence (4:6-8)."},{"start_chapter":5,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":5,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This morning prayer (5:3) expresses unwavering confidence in the Lord’s help and protection. The psalmist asks for and awaits God’s response (5:1-3). He describes the schemes of the wicked in detail but does not get lost in his circumstances. The psalmist also knows that the wicked cannot coexist with God (5:4-6, 9; see 1:5). He keeps returning to the Lord (5:7-8, 10; see 5:1-3), and then he prays for the godly community (5:10-12; see 3:8)."},{"start_chapter":5,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":5,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The request hear me appears in several prayers as a call for God’s attention during a time of trouble (39:12; 84:8; 143:1), as does pay attention (17:1; 54:2; 130:2). The needy ask their God, “Are you listening?”"},{"start_chapter":5,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":5,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The psalmist again describes the vile acts of the wicked, who cannot stand in God’s presence."},{"start_chapter":6,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":6,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The occasion for this lament might have been sickness or a mental or spiritual depression from which the psalmist sought healing."},{"start_chapter":6,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":6,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist asks for God’s favor and restoration at a difficult time."},{"start_chapter":6,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":6,"end_verse":3,"contents":"In his longing for God’s response to his prayer, the psalmist grew physically weak (6:6; see 77:3; 119:81; 142:1-3; see also Ps 101). Fasting might have played a part in his agony, but this is not mentioned."},{"start_chapter":6,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":6,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The experience was so painful that the psalmist might as well have been dead, or perhaps he feared for his life."},{"start_chapter":6,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":6,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The psalmist is exhausted to the depths of his being from the anguish of his spiritual distance from the Lord (22:1; 31:9-10; 102:5). • When eyes dim, the body is failing (see 13:3; 31:9; 38:10; Matt 6:22)."},{"start_chapter":6,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":6,"end_verse":10,"contents":"In a closing note of triumph, the psalmist reasserts his confidence in the Lord."},{"start_chapter":7,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":7,"end_verse":17,"contents":"This psalm consists of a lament (7:1-2), an oath of innocence (7:3-5), an appeal to God’s justice (7:6-9), an affirmation of God’s just kingship (7:10-16), and a concluding hymn of praise (7:17)."},{"start_chapter":7,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":7,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist swears to his innocence, making himself vulnerable to scrutiny (7:9."},{"start_chapter":7,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":7,"end_verse":9,"contents":"With this appeal to God for justice in the world, the psalmist also submits to God’s examination."},{"start_chapter":7,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":7,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The psalmist moves from his own situation (7:1-9) to speak for all the godly who long for redemption (7:10-16). He depicts God as the righteous King who vindicates his subjects when they cry out for rescue."},{"start_chapter":7,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":7,"end_verse":13,"contents":"sword . . . bow . . . deadly weapons . . . flaming arrows: As the Divine Warrior, God goes on the offensive on behalf of himself and his people."},{"start_chapter":8,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":8,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Psalm 8 opens the second segment of Book One (Pss 8–14). The psalmist celebrates God’s creation and the dignity of the ideal human being (see Ps 1). Instead of the world of enemies, wicked people, and distorted justice that is presented in Pss 3–7, this psalm promotes an image of the world as God originally created it. A weary person can envision a place of dignity in God’s world."},{"start_chapter":8,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":8,"end_verse":5,"contents":"In light of God’s awesome glory, it might seem that people would be insignificant to him. However, he has crowned them with glory and honor and placed them over all creation."},{"start_chapter":8,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":8,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Wild animals, including birds and fish, remind readers of God’s creation of the animal world in Gen 1. Contrary to beliefs among Israel’s neighbors in the ancient Near East, animals are not sacred."},{"start_chapter":9,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":10,"end_verse":18,"contents":"This hymn celebrates the Lord’s kingship and victory over evil. It might also serve as a response to the laments of Pss 3–7. Some believe that Pss 9 and 10 should be read together as one psalm in two parts because Ps 9 includes a title and Ps 10 does not, and although several letters are missing or inverted, the two psalms connect as an acrostic of the Hebrew alphabet (other such alphabetic acrostics are Pss 25, 34, 37, 111–112, 119, 145). The ancient Greek and Latin translations treat 9 and 10 as one."},{"start_chapter":9,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":9,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist celebrates God’s judgment of the wicked, which is a testimony to the Lord’s reliable promise to establish his kingdom on earth (1:6; Ps 2)."},{"start_chapter":9,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":9,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The godly do not put their hope in corruptible human government but in God’s everlasting rule of justice and fairness (see Pss 96–100)."},{"start_chapter":9,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":9,"end_verse":12,"contents":"Recognition that the Lord’s judgment falls on some of the wicked (9:3-6) and that God promises to judge all evil (9:7-10) motivates praise. The psalmist calls on the godly community to join him."},{"start_chapter":9,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":9,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The psalmist returns from a vision of the glorious future to the reality of facing his enemies (9:3). • The jaws (literally gates) are a vivid image of the powerful grip of death (see 13:3-4). • Jerusalem’s gates provide an intentional contrast to the “gates” of death."},{"start_chapter":9,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":9,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The psalmist ends his lament with a prayer for the Lord’s intervention and divine vengeance. • mere mortals . . . merely human: Humans who have received authority and glory sometimes become oppressive and assume glory for themselves (see 8:4; 10:18)."},{"start_chapter":10,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":10,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The lament of 9:13-20 continues in Ps 10 (see study note on Pss 9–10), but the mood changes from confident assertion to anguished questioning. The psalmist prays for rescue, believing that the Lord, as a just king, takes care of the needy."},{"start_chapter":10,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":10,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Wicked and oppressive people might prosper, leaving ugly consequences. Evil can be as dramatic as the psalmist portrays it here, or it could be more subtle."},{"start_chapter":10,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":10,"end_verse":7,"contents":"Despite their evil ways (5:9; 28:3; Rom 3:14), the wicked expect a future free of trouble such as the righteous will enjoy."},{"start_chapter":10,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":10,"end_verse":15,"contents":"With confidence that the wicked will be held responsible for their deeds and that the Lord will care for the helpless, the psalmist prays intensely for rescue from evil."},{"start_chapter":10,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":10,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist expresses his confidence in the Lord."},{"start_chapter":11,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":11,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The psalmist affirms his faith in the righteous God. Even though the world appears hopelessly chaotic, both the godly and the wicked can count on God’s justice. The godly can depend on him as a refuge and shelter."},{"start_chapter":11,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":11,"end_verse":3,"contents":"In the inevitable battle between the evil and the godly, the wicked cannot tolerate the righteous, so they victimize them. This seems to leave the godly with nothing but questions."},{"start_chapter":12,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":12,"end_verse":8,"contents":"This community lament seeks the Lord’s help against the prevalence of evil. Because of the Lord’s answer, the godly can face the future knowing that God protects them."},{"start_chapter":12,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":12,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Evil becomes so pervasive that the godly pray for rescue (Isa 57:1; Mic 7:2; cp. Pss 1:6; 37:20; 58:7; 104:35)."},{"start_chapter":12,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":12,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The godly know that the Lord cares, even though the wicked continue to oppress them. The Lord sees the corrupt and foolish people who praise evildoers (see 9:19-20; 14:2-6)."},{"start_chapter":13,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":13,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist’s piercing cry for help becomes a confident song of hope."},{"start_chapter":13,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":13,"end_verse":2,"contents":"How long? The fourfold repetition expresses agitation and deep anguish (79:5)."},{"start_chapter":13,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":13,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Only the Lord can bring enlightenment and relief. The psalmist longs for the Lord’s vindication so that his foes will not rejoice."},{"start_chapter":13,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":13,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist no longer hears the ridicule of his foes. Instead, because of his trust in the Lord, he is full of joy."},{"start_chapter":14,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":14,"end_verse":7,"contents":"This wisdom psalm contains some characteristics of lament and prophetic speech. The ideals of Ps 8 have run aground on the reality of foolish human attitudes and sinful actions. With the exception of vv 5-6, this psalm parallels Ps 53."},{"start_chapter":14,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":14,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Paul uses phrases from the Greek translation of this passage in his description of the depravity of all people (Rom 3:10-12)."},{"start_chapter":14,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":14,"end_verse":3,"contents":"From heaven (33:13; 80:14; 102:19), the Lord sees the wicked, who stand out as vile sinners (11:3-5). The entire human race lacks wisdom and fails to live up to the glory originally given to them (10:4-11; see Rom 1–3)."},{"start_chapter":15,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":19,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The psalms in this section affirm integrity and purity (17:15; 18:20-26; 19:13-14). They refer to people as dwelling in God’s presence (16:9-11; 17:15) and as not being shaken (15:5; 16:8)."},{"start_chapter":15,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":15,"end_verse":5,"contents":"In this wisdom poem, the psalmist contrasts the lifestyle of the godly with the actions of fools (Ps 14). The questions in this psalm invite readers to examine themselves and to look away from problems with the wicked. The question of who dwells in God’s presence leads into a description of godly character qualities (cp. 24:3-6; Isa 33:14-16)."},{"start_chapter":16,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":16,"end_verse":11,"contents":"In this psalm of confidence, the poet moves quickly from a short petition (16:1), to expressions of passionate commitment to God and his people (16:2-6), to a conclusion of confident praise (16:7-11)."},{"start_chapter":16,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":16,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God’s instruction brings life (16:11; see 5:8; 23:1-3; 32:8; 73:24). • The psalmist so deeply depends on the Lord for strength and joy that he senses that God is right beside him (16:11; see 73:23; 109:31; 110:1, 5; 121:5). • Peter quoted 16:8-11 in his sermon on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:25-28)."},{"start_chapter":16,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":16,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Knowing that not even death can separate him from the Lord strengthens the psalmist’s confidence. He fears a separation (see 13:3-4), but he remains confident of seeing the Lord (see 11:7)."},{"start_chapter":17,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":17,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The psalmist pleads for God’s protection and vindication, affirms his own integrity, and prays that the Lord will prevail against his fierce enemies."},{"start_chapter":17,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":17,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist declares his innocence (17:1) and commits himself to integrity by being open to God’s examination."},{"start_chapter":17,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":17,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This prayer for God’s care returns to the petition begun in 17:1-2 for redemption from evil."},{"start_chapter":17,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":17,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The psalmist confidently prays for the Lord’s victory, knowing that God possesses more power than the evildoers. The psalmist finds his joy in the Lord’s inheritance (16:5), whereas the wicked search for joy in this world."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":50,"contents":"This royal drama of divine rescue (also found with minor variations in 2 Sam 22:1-51) encourages readers who are following the laments and requests for rescue in Pss 16 and 17. The psalmist describes the dramatic nature of God’s rescue in three different ways (18:7-15, 16-19, 30-36). The psalm also extends hope that a future Son of David will be totally victorious over evil (18:43-50; cp. Ps 2)."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The psalmist depicts the Lord’s descent from heaven to earth with phenomena such as earthquakes, flames, smoke, darkness, and rain. Creation shudders at God’s marvelous coming as the Divine Warrior (see 97:2-5) and Judge (see 50:1-6)."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The Lord’s sovereignty extends over all of nature (see 104:2-4; 148:5-6)."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":20,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist affirms that loyalty is rewarded. He puts his trust in the Lord (see 16:1) and commits himself to living with integrity (see Pss 1, 15, 24; see also 19:12-14)."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":29,"contents":"The faithful God remains true to his character. He loves faithfulness, blamelessness, and purity, and he hates the perverse (see 1:6)."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":30,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":36,"contents":"The psalmist experiences God’s rescue and provision of victory."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":32,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":34,"contents":"The psalmist’s victories come from the Lord. He completely depends on God."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":37,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":42,"contents":"With help from the Divine Warrior, the psalmist experienced victory over his enemies."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":43,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":45,"contents":"With God’s victorious help, the psalmist achieved military and political success, thus fulfilling the history of David’s dynasty (Ps 2). The previous laments find some resolution in this psalm."},{"start_chapter":18,"start_verse":46,"end_chapter":18,"end_verse":50,"contents":"The psalmist again reflects on the Lord’s victories. God’s marvelous rescue and the king’s victory are cause for celebration."},{"start_chapter":19,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":19,"end_verse":14,"contents":"God’s wisdom is manifest in heaven (19:1-4), in nature (19:4-6), in his instruction (19:7-11), and in the life of the psalmist (19:12-14). Like Ps 8, this hymn uses creation to motivate reflection—it is a peaceful oasis after the drama of the lament and victory psalms. The psalm begins with creation as a source of wisdom, then moves to God’s word as the perfect source of wisdom, and ends with the human need for redemption."},{"start_chapter":19,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":19,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The created order is an arena of God’s wisdom, and the heavens are the place of God’s dwelling (2:4; see 8:1; 57:5; 89:6; 115:3). From heaven, God observes humanity (11:4; 14:2; 33:13; 53:2; 80:14; 102:19) and comes to the rescue of his servants (18:6-8, 13; 20:6; 57:3; 76:8; 144:5). The heavens remain unaffected by human failures and rebellions (see 2:1-4). They display God’s qualities of fidelity, righteousness (36:5; 50:6; 57:10; 85:11; 89:2, 5; 97:6; 108:4), and wisdom (136:5; see 119:89-90). The heavens reveal the Lord’s glory (see 19:1) and give evidence of his presence and handiwork."},{"start_chapter":19,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":19,"end_verse":4,"contents":"God’s wisdom does not need to be spoken. Through creation, it is seen, felt, and experienced. Paul applied this text to condemn Israel for its lack of receptivity to Jesus Christ (Rom 10:18). • The sun is part of God’s creation, but it is not a deity, as people of other nations in the ancient Near East commonly believed."},{"start_chapter":19,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":19,"end_verse":11,"contents":"God’s instructions to humans reveal his character and wisdom. God’s instruction is precious and pleasant (119:103). It nourishes the person (Prov 16:24; 24:14) and is of more value than objects of human worth (Ps 81:13-16)."},{"start_chapter":19,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":19,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The psalmist knows his faults, so he prays to remain faithful and commits himself to the Lord."},{"start_chapter":20,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":24,"end_verse":10,"contents":"This sequence of psalms expresses the experience of moving from confidence and commitment (Pss 20–21), through anguish and abandonment (Ps 22), and finally to comfort, insight, and hope (Pss 23–24)."},{"start_chapter":20,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":20,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This royal prayer for God’s victory (20:1-5) leads to confidence in God’s rescue (20:6-8) and a communal request for God’s response (20:9)."},{"start_chapter":20,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":20,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The community prays for the king’s protection and victory."},{"start_chapter":20,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":20,"end_verse":5,"contents":"make all your plans succeed . . . answer all your prayers: These requests could be those stated in 21:3-6 (cp. 27:4)."},{"start_chapter":20,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":20,"end_verse":8,"contents":"An individual member of the community (20:1-5) responds with a word of assurance and confidence in God’s help."},{"start_chapter":21,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":21,"end_verse":13,"contents":"God’s people thank him for giving victory to the king."},{"start_chapter":21,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":21,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The king returned victorious from battle and received honor from the people. His greatest honor came from God, who gave him blessings, life, and his presence."},{"start_chapter":21,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":21,"end_verse":12,"contents":"As long as even a single enemy opposed the king’s authority, God’s kingdom was not fully present. This prayer requests victory over all evil in the world."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":31,"contents":"All previous laments pale in comparison with this outcry against the enemy and God’s abandonment. The psalm contains two main sections: the lament (22:1-21) and praise for redemption (22:22-31), which leads naturally to Ps 23. The apostles saw in this psalm an expression of the sufferings of Jesus Christ, who ultimately fulfilled the purpose of David’s humiliation, rejection by people, and divine abandonment (Matt 27:35, 39, 43, 46; Mark 15:34; John 19:23-24, 28; Heb 2:12)."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":21,"contents":"The psalmist alternates between reflections on his present dire circumstances and memories of the Lord’s past faithfulness; he ends with a prayer for rescue."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":2,"contents":"A deep sense of alienation from God overwhelms the psalmist (see 10:1)."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Both the Lord and people reject the psalmist. He vividly describes his anguish (22:1-2); he lives like a lowly animal."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist reflects on his past relationship with God (see 22:3-5). The Lord has been his very life."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist returns to expressing his anguish and suffering (see 22:1-2, 6-8). His trouble comes from human beings who act like beasts."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":18,"contents":"I can count all my bones: The psalmist’s enemies have utterly shamed him by taking his garments. Jesus also suffered this disgrace (see Matt 27:35). • stare at me and gloat: Enemies make the psalmist the object of their scorn (see Pss 35:24, 26; 38:16; 55:3; cp. 59:10). • throw dice: Literally cast lots. The casting of lots was sometimes a way for godly people to find God’s direction (Lev 16:8; Num 27:21; Acts 1:24-26). Here, the lots are thrown simply as a game of chance. The soldiers threw dice for Jesus’ clothing after the crucifixion (Matt 27:35; Mark 15:24; Luke 23:34; John 19:24)."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":21,"contents":"The psalmist faces his troubles by praying for God’s rescue. Only the Lord has the strength to ward off dogs, lions, and oxen."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":22,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist praises the Lord and calls for the godly to join him. He tells of God’s goodness to the needy, including himself."},{"start_chapter":22,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":22,"end_verse":31,"contents":"The psalmist vows to praise the Lord, the great King of the earth (22:27-28) who cares for the needy. God alone deserves praise."},{"start_chapter":23,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":28,"end_verse":9,"contents":"These psalms develop the importance of integrity (25:4-7, 12-14, 21; 26:6, 11; 27:7-12), God’s shepherding care (23:1; 28:9), God’s guidance (23:2-3; 25:5; 27:11), God’s goodness (23:6; 25:7-8; 27:13), and living in his house (23:6; 26:8; 27:4, 8)."},{"start_chapter":23,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":23,"end_verse":6,"contents":"This psalm of trust and confidence in the Lord has been a favorite of God’s people for generations. It expresses assurance of God’s presence in the midst of adversity. It evokes images of the Good Shepherd (23:1-3; see Ezek 34:12; John 10:11) and of the messianic banquet (Ps 23:5-6; see Isa 25:6; Rev 19:9)."},{"start_chapter":23,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":23,"end_verse":3,"contents":"People in the ancient Near East commonly viewed their rulers as shepherds."},{"start_chapter":24,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":24,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The shepherd of Ps 23, who is also the King of the whole world, takes possession of Zion."},{"start_chapter":24,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":24,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The kingdom belongs to the Creator, the Great King (cp. 22:27)."},{"start_chapter":24,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":24,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The citizens of the King’s realm include all who seek him. The Lord invites them to enter his presence."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":22,"contents":"This individual lament includes instruction in wisdom and a community lament; it begins and ends with an affirmation of trust in the Lord (25:1-3, 15-22). The psalmist prays for guidance (25:4-7) and encourages the godly to practice a lifestyle of wisdom (25:12-14). In addition to the enemies who trouble him, the psalmist confesses his sins (25:7, 11, 18) as part of his anguish. Trust develops with understanding God’s character: He is compassionate, faithful, and good (25:8-10)."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist expresses confidence that the godly will be vindicated and his enemies will not succeed (see 25:15-22)."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":7,"contents":"In this prayer for guidance, compassion, and forgiveness, the psalmist turns to the Lord for instruction in wisdom. He confesses his past failures and acknowledges that his hope lies with his merciful Savior."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The right path, the path of wisdom (see 5:8), means being open to instruction that leads to life (27:11; 43:3; 73:24; 119:12)."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The Lord keeps his people close to himself."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":15,"contents":"Those who fear the Lord will receive further instruction and experience God’s presence (25:14) and blessing (25:13)."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":22,"contents":"The psalmist expresses confidence in the Lord, commits to a life of integrity, and prays for rescue."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist can find no relief (see 4:1; 13:1-2) as his problems go from bad to worse. He associates his anguish with sin, but he does not elaborate on the nature of his sin (see 25:7, 11)."},{"start_chapter":25,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":25,"end_verse":20,"contents":"Knowing that the Lord hates violent people (see 11:5), the psalmist pleads with God to deal with these enemies."},{"start_chapter":26,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":26,"end_verse":12,"contents":"In this individual lament, the psalmist prays for redemption on the basis of his own innocence and the Lord’s justice."},{"start_chapter":26,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":26,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist opens himself to divine examination of his life, especially in the areas of his character and devotion."},{"start_chapter":26,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":26,"end_verse":5,"contents":"Because of his devotion to the Lord (26:1-3), the psalmist dissociates himself from evil people (see 1:1)."},{"start_chapter":26,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":26,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist demonstrates his loyalty to the Lord through pious rituals, praise, and acknowledgment of the Lord’s presence in the Temple."},{"start_chapter":27,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":27,"end_verse":14,"contents":"This psalm mixes two genres—a psalm of confidence (27:1-6) and an individual lament (27:7-14)—held together by the theme of longing for the Lord’s presence. The psalmist focuses on the Lord; his circumstances are secondary. The strength of the psalmist’s faith is expressed in his openness to the Lord’s instruction, timing, and priorities."},{"start_chapter":27,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":27,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist acknowledges the Lord at the center of his life (27:1). Because of God’s presence, he engages his adversaries with confidence. They cannot intimidate him or penetrate his inner security."},{"start_chapter":27,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":27,"end_verse":6,"contents":"Searching for and enjoying the Lord’s presence provides the psalmist’s foundation for confidence and security. He lives in the assurance of God’s protection and looks forward to offering sacrifices of thanksgiving and praise (see 18:6)."},{"start_chapter":27,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":27,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist requests the Lord’s mercy, presence, and instruction. God is the psalmist’s greatest good; enemies and other circumstances are peripheral."},{"start_chapter":27,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":27,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Unlike the wicked (10:4), who only want a temporary advantage (78:34-36), the godly search for the Lord as a thirsty person searches for water in the desert (63:1; 105:4; 119:2, 10; Matt 6:33). They act wisely (Ps 34:10, 14) while waiting for the Lord to resolve their crisis (34:4; 69:6; 77:2; 119:58)."},{"start_chapter":27,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":27,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The psalmist expresses confidence and hope in the Lord’s presence. To live in faith means to wait patiently in recognition of the Lord’s goodness. Such a life is not always pleasant for the godly (42:2-3; 43:5), but their future is secure (37:9; 130:7; see 9:18)."},{"start_chapter":28,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":28,"end_verse":9,"contents":"In this individual lament, the psalmist pleads for justice and mercy. He expresses confidence in the Lord’s strength and faithfulness, and he intercedes for the Lord’s people."},{"start_chapter":28,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":28,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist urges the Lord to listen; his urgency flows out of the tension between his deep relationship with the Lord and the adversity he faces."},{"start_chapter":28,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":28,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist curses his enemies, asking God for retribution and vindication."},{"start_chapter":28,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":28,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist anticipates rescue because of his confidence in the Lord’s justice."},{"start_chapter":29,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":29,"end_verse":11,"contents":"This nature hymn in praise of the Creator declares that the Lord holds all power over nature. God uses the same unsurpassed strength to care for his people."},{"start_chapter":29,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":29,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist issues a call to honor the Lord for his power (cp. 96:7-8). • you heavenly beings: Angels or deities who, some believed, held special powers. The psalmist did not believe in other deities but called on people who thought they were real to look to the Lord as the only God."},{"start_chapter":29,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":29,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The word translated voice (Hebrew qol) can also mean “noise” (1 Kgs 1:45) or “thunder” (Joel 3:16). The Lord’s voice is awe-inspiring, and it dominates whatever rumblings people might attribute to other deities."},{"start_chapter":30,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":30,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This individual thanksgiving psalm opens in praise to the Lord for his salvation (30:1-3), then contrasts God’s favor with his anger (30:4-7), and ends with a transformation from mourning to dancing (30:8-12)."},{"start_chapter":30,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":30,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist praises God for his triumph over adversity, which he likens to salvation from the grave."},{"start_chapter":30,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":30,"end_verse":7,"contents":"Nothing can stop me now! The psalmist confesses his presumptuous attitude (cp. 32:3-4). • secure as a mountain: In the psalms, this phrase creates a powerful image of stability and of God’s control (see 11:1; 18:7; 36:6; 46:2; 72:3; 76:4; 83:14; 97:5; 114:4, 6; 125:2). • I was shattered: The absence of God’s favor destroys the security of the proud (cp. 104:27-30)."},{"start_chapter":30,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":30,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist faced death (also in 30:1-3)—perhaps literally, perhaps figuratively. But when he turned to the Lord, the Lord rescued him and turned his mourning into joyful dancing. Only God’s favor can permanently and powerfully overcome human failure and the depths of despair."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist encourages the godly to find refuge in the Lord and wait for his salvation. Despite having had a death-like experience, he testifies to the Lord’s faithfulness. This psalm foreshadows the suffering of Jesus (Luke 23:46)."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The Lord offers refuge to anyone who comes to him for protection. The psalmist trusts in and submits to the Lord. See also 71:1-3."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Trust in the Lord requires confidence that he has our best interests at heart."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":13,"contents":"In this prayer for mercy, the psalmist wedges a description of the intensity of suffering and the pain of rejection between two affirmations of trust (31:6, 14)."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":18,"contents":"Hope does not confide in frail and changeable human beings but only in the Lord. The sufferer entrusts himself to God while waiting for the Lord’s justice."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist thanks the Lord for answering his prayer (31:1-18) and rescuing him."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":20,"contents":"Since the godly are under the Lord’s protection and shelter, evil has no power over them."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":21,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":22,"contents":"Praise the Lord: The psalmist expresses his joy at the experience of God’s goodness and love. Throughout his ordeal, the Lord has cared for him."},{"start_chapter":31,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":31,"end_verse":24,"contents":"Out of his own pain and renewed awareness of the Lord’s goodness, the psalmist turns to others who suffer. He holds out the promise of God’s loving care for those who persevere in hoping for the Lord."},{"start_chapter":32,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":32,"end_verse":11,"contents":"This wisdom psalm of confession and thanksgiving encourages and exhorts the godly to learn from the psalmist’s experience of sin, denial, confession, and forgiveness. This psalm was one of the seven psalms of penitence used in the early church (also Pss 6, 38, 51, 102, 130, 143)."},{"start_chapter":32,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":32,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The Lord’s forgiveness restores people to fellowship with him, clears them of guilt, and gives them great joy. Paul quoted this text when explaining justification by faith alone (Rom 4:4-8)."},{"start_chapter":32,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":32,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist acknowledges his own sin (see 19:12-13; 25:7, 11, 15-22) and his resistance to confessing sin. The Lord pressed him hard until he confessed his guilt."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":22,"contents":"This hymn of creation (see also Pss 8, 19, 104, 145) might be a continuation of Ps 32. It exhorts readers to praise God (33:1-3), to recognize the power of his word in creation (33:4-7), and to fear the Creator (33:8-11). It offers hope to forgiven sinners (Ps 32) that they can live a new life in the fear of the Lord and under divine protection."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist exhorts the godly to praise the Lord with melodies, with a new song, and with skillfully-played music."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":7,"contents":"God’s word displays his character and his power."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Fear of the Lord begins with awe for God and for his powerful word. His word created everything and continues to order and sustain creation. He frustrates the plans of people who oppose his will."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":19,"contents":"From the heavens, the Lord searches out and cares for anyone who fears him (see 14:2-3)."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":17,"contents":"army . . . great strength . . . warhorse: Even military might is under God’s control (see 33:10-11; Eccl 9:11)."},{"start_chapter":33,"start_verse":20,"end_chapter":33,"end_verse":22,"contents":"The godly respond to this magnificent vision of God’s power in creation and in the affairs of the world with an affirmation of trust, commitment, joy, and hope as they pray and wait for God’s rescue."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":22,"contents":"This wisdom psalm includes a thanksgiving hymn (34:1-7) that celebrates the Lord’s care for and protection of godly sufferers. It also includes an invitation to wisdom (34:8-14) and an exposition of wisdom concerning the Lord’s care for the needy and the suffering of the wicked (34:15-22)."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist exhorts the helpless to join him in praise."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist narrates his experiences of answered prayer."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The godly encourage everyone to seek wisdom, to fear the Lord, and to place themselves under the protection of the Lord’s angel."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":10,"contents":"Fear of the Lord includes reverence and respect, and it motivates a life of wisdom (see Prov 1:7; 9:10)."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":13,"contents":"Wisdom contains three components: fearing the Lord (34:11), doing good (34:14), and rejecting evil (34:13)."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":16,"contents":"Peter quotes this passage in his instructions for peaceful living (1 Pet 3:10-12)."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The Lord distinguishes between wise and foolish people; he shows his concern for the wise by rescuing them from trouble (34:15, 17-20), but he destroys the foolish (34:16, 21)."},{"start_chapter":34,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":34,"end_verse":22,"contents":"The godly might suffer, but the Lord will reward them in the end. Similarly, the wicked might prosper for a time, but ultimately they will perish (1:6; 34:15-16)."},{"start_chapter":35,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":35,"end_verse":28,"contents":"In this lament, the Lord’s troubled servant calls for God to see his circumstances and vindicate him."},{"start_chapter":35,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":35,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The psalmist longs for the Lord’s salvation. The language seems vindictive, but it arises from a desire for justice and for the Lord to care for the needy and oppressed."},{"start_chapter":35,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":35,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist presents the Lord with the reasons for his suffering. Evil has many faces. He is tired and worn out, and he knows that only the Lord can help him."},{"start_chapter":35,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":35,"end_verse":25,"contents":"In this prayer for vindication, the psalmist’s crisis looms so large that a resolution must be found in the Lord. The psalmist has taken the high road, believing that vengeance belongs to the Lord. God’s patience hardens the hearts of the wicked and gives them reasons to justify their evil lifestyle."},{"start_chapter":35,"start_verse":26,"end_chapter":35,"end_verse":28,"contents":"The psalmist calls on the Lord to judge the wicked and to rescue the godly and bring them joy."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This lament contrasts the world of folly devised by the wicked with the world of wisdom created and sustained by the Lord. The wicked care only about themselves, whereas the Lord cares for all of creation. He will intervene to bring about justice in his world. The righteous will enjoy his protection, but the wicked will perish."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Fools despise what is wise and good as they pursue evil."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":9,"contents":"As the source of wisdom, the Lord is reliable and incomparable. His faithful care extends to all parts of the created order."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":6,"contents":"God’s all-encompassing goodness surpasses that of the created order. God graciously meets his people’s practical needs."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":9,"contents":"All creatures live by God’s grace (1 Tim 4:10)."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God invites all humanity to the banquet in his house (cp. Prov 9:1-6)."},{"start_chapter":36,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":36,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Since God’s wisdom extends to all of creation, it protects the godly."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":40,"contents":"This psalm elaborates on the problems posed in Ps 36: How should the godly respond to the reality of evil? When will the Lord bring justice? Why does he permit the wicked to destroy his created order? Psalm 37 offers clear responses that reduce the tensions of life (37:1-9, 34) and promise that the meek will have a future (37:10-11, 39-40). The alternating contrast between the godly and the wicked emphasizes the futility of folly (37:12-24, 27-33). The personal observations of the psalmist add a human touch (37:25-26, 35-38). He encourages viewing the inheritance of the land from a long-range perspective: The earth belongs to the Lord, who will give it to those he blesses—the lowly and godly who trust in him, put their hope in him, and follow him (see 37:9, 11, 22, 29, 34; see also Isa 57:13; Matt 5:5)."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The wise respond to evil by trusting in the Lord. Trust includes five dimensions: (1) renouncing irritability and envy (37:1-2); (2) delighting in the Lord (37:3-4); (3) submitting to the Lord (37:5-6); (4) practicing patience in hope (37:7); and (5) avoiding anger (37:8-9)."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The antidote to irritability and envy (37:1) is trust in the Lord."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The wicked will not possess the land; those who trust in the Lord will. The Lord promises an inheritance because he is committed to caring for his people."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The wicked seek to destroy the Lord’s order, but he defeats them."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The wicked snarl to express their bitter envy. They plot to bring an end to the godly, but the Lord derides them because they cannot succeed (2:4)."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The weapons of the wicked will turn against them (cp. 7:12-13)."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":18,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The Lord cares for the blameless in this life and for eternity, but the wicked will perish."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The rectitude and strength of a godly person’s life comes from the Lord (see Prov 4:12; 14:15; 16:9; 20:24)."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":26,"contents":"The Lord does not abandon his children or their descendants."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":27,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":33,"contents":"The godly are wise; they do good and reject evil. The Lord cares for them, protecting them and ensuring that they receive their rightful portion of the land as their inheritance. The wicked might try to ambush the godly, but they will not succeed."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":35,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":36,"contents":"The wicked might appear to be flourishing like a tree (cp. 52:8; 92:12-13), but they eventually die and are forgotten (37:2)."},{"start_chapter":37,"start_verse":39,"end_chapter":37,"end_verse":40,"contents":"The Lord provides strength for his people."},{"start_chapter":38,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":38,"end_verse":22,"contents":"This psalm is a lament and prayer for healing. The psalmist’s suffering is associated with his unconfessed sin. He confesses his sin and entrusts his case to the Lord."},{"start_chapter":38,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":38,"end_verse":17,"contents":"These verses form a prelude to the psalmist’s confession (38:18) and describe his woeful condition."},{"start_chapter":38,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":38,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist’s sins had triggered the Lord’s anger and rage, resulting in the arrows and blows of discipline and rebuke; as a result, his whole body is sick."},{"start_chapter":38,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":38,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The severity of God’s punishment brings anguish that affects every part of the psalmist’s being."},{"start_chapter":38,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":38,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist longs for a restored relationship with God, but he feels alienated. He finds himself lost and alone as his friends disappear."},{"start_chapter":38,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":38,"end_verse":20,"contents":"No longer able to endure his suffering and teetering on the verge of collapse (cp. 15:5), the psalmist confesses his sin (see 32:5)."},{"start_chapter":39,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":39,"end_verse":13,"contents":"This prayer for rescue reflects the psalmist’s discouragement, which comes from having a limited perspective on his situation."},{"start_chapter":39,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":39,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Suffering in silence only intensifies the psalmist’s anguish, pain, and inner turmoil."},{"start_chapter":39,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":39,"end_verse":6,"contents":"Because of his suffering and sin, the psalmist concludes that life is meaningless and fleeting (see Job 7:7-10; Isa 40:6-8). He had expected a wicked life to have those qualities (see Pss 37:2, 20; 103:15-16), but now whether a person is godly or not seems to be irrelevant."},{"start_chapter":39,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":39,"end_verse":5,"contents":"how fleeting my life is: This perspective comes out of suffering (see 78:39; 89:47-48; 90:3-10). The human lifetime is but a moment to God (90:4), as temporary as a breath (see 39:11; 144:4)."},{"start_chapter":39,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":39,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist links suffering with God’s discipline, assuming that it is punishment for his sin."},{"start_chapter":40,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":40,"end_verse":17,"contents":"This psalm includes a thanksgiving song (40:1-10) followed by a lament (40:11-17). The thanksgiving song includes the reason for the thanksgiving (40:1-5), an affirmation of commitment (40:6-8), and a public testimony of God’s character (40:7-10). The lament concerns the psalmist’s troubles because of his sins (40:11-12) and is followed by two prayers for vindication (40:13-15, 17)."},{"start_chapter":40,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":40,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist thanks the Lord for his rescue and testifies that God can be trusted."},{"start_chapter":40,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":40,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The psalmist is troubled by both his adversities and his own sins and prays for rescue. • This passage is repeated almost verbatim as Ps 70."},{"start_chapter":41,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":41,"end_verse":13,"contents":"In this wisdom psalm, the psalmist prays for healing (41:4, 10), laments his distress (41:5-9), and expresses confidence in the Lord’s blessing (41:1-3, 11-12)."},{"start_chapter":41,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":41,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The psalmist’s enemies disguise themselves as friends, while his friends openly become his enemies."},{"start_chapter":41,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":41,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist knows that the Lord has forgiven him and will bless him."},{"start_chapter":42,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":43,"end_verse":5,"contents":"These psalms, like Pss 9 and 10, form a unit comprising a lament with a bittersweet refrain of hope (42:5, 11; 43:5). In many Hebrew manuscripts these two psalms are combined as one. The historical context is uncertain; these psalms might be the voice of God’s people in exile, confessing their loyalty to God as he punishes them for their prevailing apostasy. The psalmist longs for fellowship with God such as he enjoyed in Jerusalem (42:4); his memories only make him more discouraged. As the psalmist cries out to God, he recalls God’s love and faithfulness (42:8), which moves him to plead for vindication (43:1-4)."},{"start_chapter":42,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":42,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist’s longing for God comes from being geographically distant from the Temple as he remembers the past. • The verb translated longs is found only here and in Joel 1:20 (“cry out”); in both cases it refers to extreme thirst in a waterless desert (see Pss 63:1; 143:6; see also 84:2)."},{"start_chapter":42,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":42,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist encourages himself with questions and answers."},{"start_chapter":42,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":42,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The psalmist brings his many doubts, discouragements, and questions directly to God."},{"start_chapter":43,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":43,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist turns to the Lord for rescue from his troubles, for guidance, for restoration, and for vindication."},{"start_chapter":44,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":44,"end_verse":26,"contents":"This national lament after defeat in battle continues the tone of the previous two psalms, including reflecting on an unspecified moment in Israel’s history and calling on God for salvation. The people recite God’s past acts of rescue (44:1-3), acknowledge God’s power to save (44:4-8), describe their humiliation in exile (44:9-16), claim their innocence and lament the injustice of their current situation (44:17-22), and cry for vindication (44:23-26)."},{"start_chapter":44,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":44,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God’s people feel confident about his mighty acts; he was with them in the past, and he is their king in the present."},{"start_chapter":44,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":44,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The people have experienced defeat (44:9-12), so they understand suffering and disgrace (44:13-16)."},{"start_chapter":44,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":44,"end_verse":26,"contents":"In the end, God’s people can turn to the Lord and trust him for rescue. Their petition for God to remedy their situation is as strong as their lament about God’s rejection."},{"start_chapter":45,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":45,"end_verse":17,"contents":"This psalm celebrates a royal wedding; it might have been sung on many occasions and not just at one wedding. As God’s representative, the king carried the responsibility of dispensing justice and maintaining order in God’s world (see Ps 2)."},{"start_chapter":45,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":45,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist expounds on the royal splendor the king showed when fighting his enemies."},{"start_chapter":45,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":45,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The king is like a god among humans; he is anointed by God, he has received a mighty throne, and he dispenses justice as he rules forever. • The writer to the Hebrews applies 45:6-7 to Jesus as he argues that the Son is greater than the angels (Heb 1:8-9)."},{"start_chapter":45,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":45,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The bride is a representative of the king. Powerful people and nations try to gain her favor in order to get close to the king. This is a great honor, and she is encouraged to give herself fully to her new position."},{"start_chapter":46,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":46,"end_verse":11,"contents":"This psalm of Zion celebrates God’s special presence in Jerusalem (see also Pss 48, 76, 87, 122), inviting confidence in the Lord because the citizens of Zion enjoy his protection."},{"start_chapter":46,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":46,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Even when faced with natural disasters, the citizens of Zion express no fear."},{"start_chapter":46,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":46,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The strong city where God dwells protects its inhabitants. They enjoy the river flowing inside the city. This river contrasts with the turbulent waters (the powers of the nations) outside the city."},{"start_chapter":46,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":46,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This invitation to trust in the Lord offers a perspective on God’s interactions with human powers."},{"start_chapter":47,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":47,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This psalm celebrates God’s kingship over all the earth; it tells of God’s victory in dealing with Israel and the nations. Both Israel (47:3-4) and the nations (47:9) participate in God’s kingdom."},{"start_chapter":47,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":47,"end_verse":2,"contents":"As the sovereign king over the nations, God requires praise."},{"start_chapter":47,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":47,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The Lord made Israel victorious, especially under David (see 18:40-50). God’s mighty deeds of redemption manifest his love for Israel."},{"start_chapter":47,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":47,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist portrays the Lord as returning to heaven, having accomplished his victories. For a portrayal of his descent, see 18:9-16."},{"start_chapter":48,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":48,"end_verse":14,"contents":"This song of Zion (see also Pss 46, 76, 87, 122) explicitly views Jerusalem (Zion) as the city of the Great King where the godly find protection (48:1-3). God rules from Zion in faithfulness, righteousness, and justice, and he inspires his subjects with confidence and joy (48:9-11). They commit themselves to seeing the glory of Zion for themselves so that they can tell the next generation about it (48:8, 12-14)."},{"start_chapter":48,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":48,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist joyfully celebrates the Lord’s presence in the midst of the community, reflecting on the faithfulness, righteousness, and justice of God’s rule."},{"start_chapter":48,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":48,"end_verse":13,"contents":"towers . . . fortified walls . . . citadels: These structures provide a visual tour of Zion’s strength."},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":20,"contents":"In this wisdom psalm, a wise teacher warns against enemies, whom he portrays as living a rich lifestyle and caring only for themselves (49:5-9). They cannot keep anyone alive, least of all themselves, even in their memories (49:10-12). Like fattened animals, they are led to slaughter (49:14-20)."},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The wisdom teacher invites everyone to the hall of wisdom; he promises to instruct with a proverb and a riddle."},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Anyone who will listen can gain wisdom (Prov 1:5, 8, 33)."},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":8,"contents":"If enemies who live for material rewards cannot sustain themselves, how can they give life to others?"},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The teacher brings wisdom through irony. Everyone dies, and even those with estates named after them will be forgotten."},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The teachers of false wisdom cannot rescue themselves from death. Only God has that power."},{"start_chapter":49,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":49,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The wicked might have rich, luxurious lives, but they forget that they cannot avoid death."},{"start_chapter":50,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":50,"end_verse":23,"contents":"God appears as judge to remind the godly and the ungodly in turn that outward performance of sacrificial rituals and recitation of the law are worthless without thankfulness, repentance, and justice."},{"start_chapter":50,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":50,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The whole universe must pay attention when God approaches to bring justice into the world."},{"start_chapter":50,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":50,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Lord is coming to bring righteousness. This hope encourages his faithful people, but those who have been unfaithful will not experience blessing when the heavens above and earth below testify against them (cp. Deut 30:19; 31:28; 32:1; Isa 1:2). The Lord comes to restore order to the world (Pss 5:8; 22:31; 33:5; 40:9; 50:6; 71:16; 97:6)."},{"start_chapter":50,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":50,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The psalmist delivers a message against those who regard the sacrificial rituals as more important than having a proper heart attitude."},{"start_chapter":50,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":50,"end_verse":21,"contents":"This message is against the wicked, who only pretend to listen to God."},{"start_chapter":50,"start_verse":22,"end_chapter":50,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The wicked will experience God’s justice, while the godly will see God’s everlasting salvation."},{"start_chapter":51,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":65,"end_verse":13,"contents":"These psalms of David share a common thread in their reflection on the experience of evil. In Ps 51, the psalmist confesses the evil he has done and asks God’s forgiveness. Psalms 52–64 lament specific evils that David experienced. A song of praise (Ps 65) brings David’s laments to an end."},{"start_chapter":51,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":51,"end_verse":19,"contents":"This moving prayer for restoration asks for God’s favor, mercy, forgiveness, and cleansing. Out of a broken spirit, the psalmist confesses and accepts responsibility for his sin (51:3-6), then petitions God to remove his guilt and renew him inwardly (51:7-12). The psalmist then recommits himself to a lifestyle of wisdom and joy in the service of God and others (51:13-17)."},{"start_chapter":51,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":51,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The repentant offender has nothing to offer God. He needs God’s favor, mercy, forgiveness, and blessing before he can experience renewal and restoration."},{"start_chapter":51,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":51,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist accepts the consequences of his sin against God. He knows that there is nothing good in him unless God renews his life."},{"start_chapter":51,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":51,"end_verse":12,"contents":"God’s Spirit renews and recreates the human spirit."},{"start_chapter":51,"start_verse":18,"end_chapter":51,"end_verse":19,"contents":"rebuild the walls of Jerusalem: These verses were probably added as a prayer for national restoration after the Exile (see Pss 42–43); the entire community in exile identified with the spirit of the psalm."},{"start_chapter":52,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":52,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Wicked people use words to destroy relationships and communities. They foolishly think that they can be heroes by their words (52:1-4), but their fate suddenly overtakes them (52:5-7). In contrast, the godly renew their commitment to the Lord (52:8-9) and find their future secure in him."},{"start_chapter":52,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":52,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Liars foolishly deceive themselves by thinking that they can be heroes by their words. They believe themselves innocent of any charges of evildoing, though they love evil and cause destruction. Those who speak curses, sarcasm, bitterness, arrogant boasting, and deceptions (31:18; 34:13; 59:7, 12; 120:2-3; 140:3, 9) bring about chaos, alienation, and destruction (Jas 3:5). Their sharp words cut like swords and daggers (Pss 55:21; 57:4; 64:3), the fangs of a snake (140:3), or a razor."},{"start_chapter":52,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":52,"end_verse":7,"contents":"God’s judgment on the wicked will come suddenly and forcibly. The godly rejoice in God’s justice, not in the misfortunes of the wicked."},{"start_chapter":52,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":52,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The psalmist commits himself to a life of trust in the Lord. • An olive tree lives a long time when cared for (1:3; 128:3). The psalmist desires to be close to the Lord, his Savior and the source of his blessing (18:6; 23:6)."},{"start_chapter":53,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":53,"end_verse":6,"contents":"This psalm parallels Ps 14, differing only in verse 5."},{"start_chapter":53,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":53,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Paul uses the Greek translation of this passage in his description of the depravity of all people (Rom 3:10-12)."},{"start_chapter":54,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":54,"end_verse":7,"contents":"In this individual lament, occasioned by violent and godless people (54:3), the psalmist turns to God in prayer and maintains his focus on God’s help (54:4). He prays for God to save him from evil and to judge his enemies (54:5, 7)."},{"start_chapter":54,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":54,"end_verse":7,"contents":"In anticipation of God’s response, the mood of the psalm changes from gloom to thanksgiving."},{"start_chapter":55,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":55,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The psalmist is faced with adversaries whose leader is a former friend (55:12-14), and he is overwhelmed with anguish. He turns to the Lord in prayer and commits himself to the Lord for redress (55:22-23). Jesus experienced similar suffering when his friend (Judas) betrayed him. He also experienced the answer to the psalmist’s prayer: (1) by taking the place of the wicked and receiving their judgment (Isa 53:7-9), and (2) by committing himself to the Father, who rescued (Luke 23:46) and rewarded him (Isa 53:10-12)."},{"start_chapter":55,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":55,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The occasion for this prayer is an attack by an enemy."},{"start_chapter":55,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":55,"end_verse":8,"contents":"In the experience of deep anguish, the psalmist confesses that his adversity has become unbearable and he seeks an escape."},{"start_chapter":55,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":55,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The psalmist’s enemy was once a friend; memories of that close relationship bring him pain (see 31:11)."},{"start_chapter":55,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":55,"end_verse":21,"contents":"God is good and faithful, but the psalmist’s enemies and so-called friend are deceitful and wicked."},{"start_chapter":55,"start_verse":22,"end_chapter":55,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The psalmist commits all his cares to the Lord."},{"start_chapter":56,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":56,"end_verse":13,"contents":"This individual lament moves from petition to confidence two times (56:1-4, 5-13)."},{"start_chapter":56,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":56,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The psalmist specifies his charge against his attackers as he prays for their evil to cease."},{"start_chapter":57,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":57,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist’s cry for mercy and protection quickly turns into an affirmation of trust and confidence in the Lord (57:1-4). When the wicked fall into their own traps (57:6), the psalmist will praise the Lord (57:7-10)."},{"start_chapter":57,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":57,"end_verse":4,"contents":"These verses are a prayer for rescue from powerful enemies. The metaphor of fierce lions describes human enemies; the psalmist feels unable to escape them without God’s intervention (see also 35:11-21; 124:6)."},{"start_chapter":57,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":57,"end_verse":11,"contents":"This section is repeated with a few modifications in 108:1-5."},{"start_chapter":57,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":57,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist is confident that God will end the night of evil (cp. 56:13)."},{"start_chapter":57,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":57,"end_verse":11,"contents":"God’s glory extends to the whole universe, as will praise for his unfailing love and faithfulness."},{"start_chapter":58,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":58,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The administration of justice is a mark of good government. God expects nothing less from his people. The psalmist condemns Israel’s leaders for abusing their power, and he calls on the Lord to rain down his curses upon the wicked. The demonstration of divine justice will reassure the godly that God is just."},{"start_chapter":58,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":58,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The administrators of justice were furthering their own interests rather than those of the needy. The absence of justice gradually resulted in a violent society."},{"start_chapter":58,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":58,"end_verse":10,"contents":"God’s judgment will come suddenly. The certainty of vindication brings joy to the godly."},{"start_chapter":59,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":59,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The psalmist laments the power of enemies who conspire with other nations."},{"start_chapter":59,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":59,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Protect me (or place me on high): When surrounded by evil, the godly pray for God to set them apart for himself and protect them."},{"start_chapter":59,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":59,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist asks God to show the treacherous, deceptive, and wicked traitors no mercy (see 25:2)."},{"start_chapter":59,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":59,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The wicked threaten like vicious dogs, but the Lord responds with scorn."},{"start_chapter":59,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":59,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The psalmist prays that the wicked will be forced to endure the same agonizing pain they have caused."},{"start_chapter":59,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":59,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The wicked will go unsatisfied, but the psalmist will praise the Lord’s power and unfailing love."},{"start_chapter":60,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":60,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist laments a national defeat and cries out to God for rescue."},{"start_chapter":60,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":60,"end_verse":4,"contents":"When God’s people experience his discipline, they affirm their loyalty and await God’s answer."},{"start_chapter":60,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":60,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This section is repeated verbatim in 108:6-13."},{"start_chapter":60,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":60,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The Lord responds with a message of promise. He shares his land with his people as spoils of war."},{"start_chapter":61,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":63,"end_verse":11,"contents":"In these royal prayers, the psalmist longs for God’s presence. All three psalms concern themselves with the king’s security."},{"start_chapter":61,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":61,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The lamenting psalmist petitions God to protect him and lead him into his presence (61:4-5). He prays for God to extend and protect the king’s rule and makes vows to praise God."},{"start_chapter":62,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":62,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This psalm expresses confidence in the king and offers prayer for him. The king rests in God despite his difficulties. Although his deceptive and powerful adversaries push hard against him, he remains undaunted. He encourages himself and his people to trust in God and to see their human adversaries from God’s perspective, where they appear frail, fleeting, and deceptive (62:9)."},{"start_chapter":62,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":62,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The enemies desire to topple the king with lies and cunning."},{"start_chapter":62,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":62,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist encourages himself and others to place their hope in God."},{"start_chapter":62,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":62,"end_verse":12,"contents":"Unlike God, humans are transient beings. Even when they thrive, their prosperity is fleeting."},{"start_chapter":62,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":62,"end_verse":12,"contents":"Strength and unfailing love remain in balance only in God. He cares for his people by ridding the world of evildoers (see 1:6)."},{"start_chapter":63,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":63,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The king longs for God’s presence so vividly that he eats, drinks, and sees God’s goodness. Though worn out and harassed by the wicked, the king sees God, and this animates him with praise. God becomes his life (63:3), while the wicked perish (63:9)."},{"start_chapter":63,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":63,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist reflects and meditates on God’s presence through the night. In the absence of light, God is the light. The quietness of the night and the longing for dawn provide time to focus on the true significance of life with the Lord."},{"start_chapter":64,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":64,"end_verse":10,"contents":"This lament decries the destructive plots and arrogant attitude of the wicked (64:1-6). The psalmist turns to God in prayer and takes heart in God’s justice because whatever the wicked do will be undone by the righteous judge. The godly will rejoice and grow in wisdom as they reflect on God’s mighty acts."},{"start_chapter":64,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":64,"end_verse":6,"contents":"These verses form a prayer for rescue from bold and powerful liars."},{"start_chapter":64,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":64,"end_verse":10,"contents":"What God does is righteous. God undoes what is wicked and pays the wicked back with what they planned for others."},{"start_chapter":65,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":65,"end_verse":13,"contents":"This psalm recounts the reasons why all people should praise and revere God for his almighty power and merciful care for his universe."},{"start_chapter":65,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":65,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Praise is the appropriate response to God’s majestic deeds in redemption (65:3-5) and in nature (65:5-13)."},{"start_chapter":65,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":65,"end_verse":7,"contents":"God brought order to the mountains, the raging oceans, and the pounding waves (see Pss 95:4-5; 104:6-9). • The psalmist compares the chaotic forces of nature with the rebellion of the nations (see 2:1-12; 33:6-11; 46:6)."},{"start_chapter":65,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":65,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The created order provides clear evidence of God’s power (65:6-8). He shows his love by maintaining nature. Everything praises the Lord as all the parts fit together harmoniously."},{"start_chapter":66,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":66,"end_verse":20,"contents":"This anonymous psalm includes two hymns (66:1-12, 13-20) that praise God for his redemption."},{"start_chapter":66,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":66,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist exhorts nature to join in a mighty chorus to praise God’s glory, name, and power."},{"start_chapter":66,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":66,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The story of the Exodus and God’s victory over the sea evokes responses of astonishment (66:5) and worship (66:6). God works miracles . . . for people in order to redeem them for himself."},{"start_chapter":66,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":66,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The orderly lives of the redeemed reflect the order of God’s world. The Lord protects them from evil and purifies them."},{"start_chapter":66,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":66,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The private testimony in the conclusion of the psalm parallels the public praise of its opening (66:1-4)."},{"start_chapter":67,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":67,"end_verse":7,"contents":"In this anonymous prayer for God’s blessing, the psalmist addresses the knowledge and worship of God among the nations (cp. 64:9; 65:8). The prayer requests that God’s name be kept holy and that his kingdom come (cp. Matt 6:9-13)."},{"start_chapter":67,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":67,"end_verse":2,"contents":"This prayer is based on the priestly blessing found in Num 6:24-26. God’s goodness to Israel affects his reputation among the nations (see Ps 96:1-3)."},{"start_chapter":67,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":67,"end_verse":7,"contents":"Bountiful harvests are evidence of God’s blessing (Gen 26:12; Isa 30:23). • all over the world: See Pss 2:8; 96:1-3. • All will fear him, joining with Israel to acknowledge the God of Israel."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":35,"contents":"This prayer for God’s victorious rule traces God’s march from Sinai to Zion (68:7, 16-18, 24). He rescued the nation of Israel from Egypt, guided it through the wilderness, brought it into the Promised Land, and established his kingdom. He is a caring and victorious God, whose nature is unchanging. Therefore, the godly hope and rejoice in the prospect of God’s universal dominion."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":3,"contents":"These verses form a prayer for God to rise up and scatter his enemies, as he did when Israel entered the Promised Land (cp. Num 10:35-36; Josh 6–12)."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist praises God’s powerful and compassionate reign."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The earth trembled as in an earthquake (see Exod 19:18). • the heavens poured down rain: Wells in the desert and rain showers in Canaan supplied an abundance of water."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The Divine Warrior cares for his people like a shepherd; the people praise him."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":24,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":27,"contents":"A great company joins together in the pilgrimage to Zion."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":28,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":31,"contents":"The people pray for God’s success and for victory over the enemy nations (68:1-3)."},{"start_chapter":68,"start_verse":32,"end_chapter":68,"end_verse":35,"contents":"The psalmist calls for the people to praise God, who is victorious over his enemies."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":20,"contents":"These last four psalms of Book Two contrast with the psalms describing God’s mighty acts in creation and in redemption, capped by God’s march to Zion (Pss 65–68). Psalms 69–71 portray the king’s anguish, and Ps 72 responds with a prayer for God to bless the king."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":36,"contents":"In this individual lament, the poet expresses his vulnerability, humiliation, and overwhelming pain, asking God to vindicate him for the sake of the righteous."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist sees himself as almost drowning but still surviving chaotic forces and alienation from God (see 42:7; 69:14, 15; Isa 8:8)."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist confesses his sins and prays that God’s response to him will encourage others in similar conditions to place their hope in the Lord."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":12,"contents":"Mistreated and abandoned by family, friends, and community, the psalmist turns to the Lord for comfort, relief (69:13-18), and redress (69:22-28)."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":12,"contents":"When the psalmist denies himself normal comforts to seek God in prayer, the wicked ridicule him."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist’s only recourse is to pray for rescue and relief from his enemies."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":21,"contents":"Alone and misunderstood, the psalmist confesses that he cannot bear his doubts. His heart has been broken by his problems."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":22,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The psalmist wants God to transfer his suffering (69:3) to his enemies. Paul applied these words to the unbelieving Jews of his day (Rom 11:9-10)."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":29,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":33,"contents":"The psalmist prays that his pain will turn to praise."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":32,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":33,"contents":"despise: See 22:24; cp. Matt 25:36; Heb 13:3."},{"start_chapter":69,"start_verse":34,"end_chapter":69,"end_verse":36,"contents":"The psalmist prays for Zion, offering a new petition from a new circumstance. He applies the prayer (69:1-33) to the desperate condition of Judah (see 51:18-19)."},{"start_chapter":70,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":70,"end_verse":5,"contents":"This psalm, nearly identical to 40:13-17, contains an urgency (70:1, 5) that fits with the surrounding psalms (cp. 69:17; 71:12)."},{"start_chapter":71,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":71,"end_verse":24,"contents":"This untitled lament by an aging believer is more of a confession of confidence and hope than the cry of someone abandoned by God. The psalmist experienced God’s power and protection in his youth (71:5-8) and now prays for rescue from the adversaries who stalk him in his old age (71:9-13). Even in the midst of his peril, he continues to tell of God’s past faithfulness and looks forward with hope to a time when he can testify to the next generation that God is faithful and righteous."},{"start_chapter":71,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":71,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The poet has learned to acknowledge God as the reliable rock who will do what is right toward him and his oppressors. See also 31:1-3."},{"start_chapter":71,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":71,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist has trusted God throughout his life (see 22:9)."},{"start_chapter":71,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":71,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The aging believer turns to the Lord for hope. As questions from his adversaries get under his skin and his own strength fails, he asks God to answer his prayers. He does not seek answers to prayer for himself but so that he can tell the story to the next generation."},{"start_chapter":71,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":71,"end_verse":21,"contents":"God’s righteous character provides encouragement and strength in the midst of suffering. The wounded psalmist confesses faith in God’s ability to transform his misery and weakness into abundant life."},{"start_chapter":71,"start_verse":22,"end_chapter":71,"end_verse":24,"contents":"As he awaits God’s rescue, the psalmist prepares himself to declare with instruments and voice that God is faithful and righteous."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":20,"contents":"This royal psalm closes Book Two, with 72:18-20 functioning as an epilogue to all of Book Two. The psalmist reflects on the prospects of David’s royal line and on Zion (see Pss 46, 48). He prays that Israel’s kings will be good and prosperous, extending the Lord’s blessing on his people throughout the whole earth. The surpassing righteousness and dominion sought in this prayer foreshadow the coming of Jesus, the Son of David."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The blessings of justice create a balance in nature, resulting in harmony, prosperity, and fertility."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The administration of justice is refreshing like spring rain, enabling the godly to flourish (see Isa 45:8) like flowers. • until the moon is no more: This phrase means forever (see Ps 89:36-37)."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The anointed king will rule over the whole world. Even hostile nations will submit to him. In the ancient Near East, bearing gifts to the king acknowledged his success and his reputation (see 1 Kgs 10)."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":9,"contents":"from sea to sea: This phrase represents the whole world. • Solomon’s kingdom extended from the Euphrates River in the east to the Philistine territory in the west (1 Kgs 4:21; see Pss 80:8-11; 89:19-25), where the Mediterranean Sea appeared to be at the ends of the earth (see 2:8). Everyone will bow before this king, including the desert nomads (72:9), his enemies, and all the kings of the world (see Mic 7:17)."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The anointed king will rescue the needy. He is not only the judge but also a father to the poor (10:14, 17; 68:5)."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The just kingdom will be long-lasting and universal. The summary combines the themes of abundance of crops, longevity, tribute of the nations, and the prayer of the nations."},{"start_chapter":72,"start_verse":18,"end_chapter":72,"end_verse":19,"contents":"This doxology concludes Book Two of the Psalter."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":75,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The apparent prosperity of the wicked (Ps 73) and God’s apparent rejection of his people (Ps 74) raise questions about his justice. God is sovereign over the whole world, and he determines the time for judgment (Ps 75)."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":28,"contents":"This wisdom psalm examines the injustice of the prosperity of the wicked. The psalmist affirms that God is good to the godly but his own experience differs (73:2-12). Nearly overcome by his doubts (73:13-16), the psalmist meets the Lord in the sanctuary and gains a perspective that stretches beyond his life and renews his confidence in God (73:17-26). His disturbing doubts stir a greater passion for truth. He knows that he can trust God and that God will rescue him (73:27-28)."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The poet sees the prosperity of the wicked as unfair (see 72:7) and resents it. • The psalmist’s feet were slipping from the way of wisdom and godliness (see 17:5; 37:31), but God kept him from falling off the trail entirely (38:16; 66:9; 94:18; 121:3). • when I saw them prosper: Cp. 72:3, 7."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist presents a caricature of the bliss of the wicked (cp. Ps 1)."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":17,"contents":"Recognizing the ramifications of his discouragement and doubt, the psalmist turns to the Lord and receives special insight."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":14,"contents":"These rhetorical questions expect a discouraging “yes” for an answer. The psalmist wonders if godliness has become a meaningless ritual (see Mal 3:14-15). • My heart refers to his whole being. • The psalmist’s pain comes from discipline and rebuke (Ps 39:11; Prov 1:23, 25; 12:1)."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":16,"contents":"If the psalmist had verbalized his suspicions about the futility of godly living, he would have discouraged God’s people and given God’s enemies an opportunity to blaspheme (cp. John 13:20). Instead, the psalmist internalizes the problem and reflects on it."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":20,"contents":"At this time, God’s sanctuary was the Temple in Jerusalem. There, in God’s presence, the psalmist receives special insight (cp. 18:6). • God deals with the wicked over the long term. He waits patiently and gives them time to repent (Ezek 33:11; 2 Pet 3:9); those who do not repent will get what they deserve."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":21,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":22,"contents":"The psalmist’s feelings about the prosperity of the wicked had given him a bitter spirit."},{"start_chapter":73,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":73,"end_verse":26,"contents":"Nothing in heaven or on earth is better than being near God."},{"start_chapter":74,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":74,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The psalmist laments the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem (586 BC) with vivid imagery, questions, fresh memories, and a direct appeal for the Lord to act (74:19-23)."},{"start_chapter":74,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":74,"end_verse":2,"contents":"In the aftermath of Jerusalem’s fall, it seemed that God had forgotten his special covenant relationship with his people."},{"start_chapter":74,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":74,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Like a guide, the psalmist points out to the Lord what took place during the destruction of Jerusalem in 586 BC."},{"start_chapter":74,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":74,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The poet urges God to act."},{"start_chapter":75,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":75,"end_verse":10,"contents":"This hymn of thanksgiving includes two direct messages from God that provide assurance of his justice (75:2-3, 10). The Lord rebukes arrogant people who defy him, promising to forcibly humble them (75:4-8). Together, the community and the psalmist respond with thanksgiving for God’s character (75:1, 9)."},{"start_chapter":75,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":75,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The Lord will bring justice in his own time."},{"start_chapter":75,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":75,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The wicked arrogantly defy the heavens—the dwelling place of God. Through their boasting they insist that they are wiser than God."},{"start_chapter":75,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":75,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The Lord alone is the Judge, with the power to exalt and humble (see 1 Sam 2:7; Luke 1:52)."},{"start_chapter":76,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":76,"end_verse":12,"contents":"This psalm appears to celebrate a victory. The victory might have been recent, such as over the Assyrians (see note on 76:title; see also Isa 37); or the psalm might be recalling God’s great acts of rescue in the past."},{"start_chapter":76,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":76,"end_verse":3,"contents":"God’s victory over Zion’s enemies foreshadows his worldwide victory over all his enemies."},{"start_chapter":76,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":76,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist praises God for his achievement and for his glorious majesty."},{"start_chapter":76,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":76,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The needy await their victorious God, while the wicked stand in fear of him."},{"start_chapter":77,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":77,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The psalmist laments that God has turned away from him, even though he feels innocent. He reflects on his situation (77:3, 6, 12) and finds hope (see 25:5) in remembering God’s past deeds (77:11)."},{"start_chapter":77,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":77,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The night provides a special opportunity for prayer and meditation (77:6, 11; see 6:6; 16:7; 17:3; 30:5; 63:6; 119:55, 62, 148)."},{"start_chapter":77,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":77,"end_verse":6,"contents":"As the psalmist meditates at night, he feels so disturbed that he cannot sleep or speak. He has pleasant memories of the past, but he cannot look beyond the present moment into the future."},{"start_chapter":77,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":77,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The psalmist questions his status before God."},{"start_chapter":77,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":77,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The memories of God’s mighty works in the past fill the psalmist’s mind."},{"start_chapter":77,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":77,"end_verse":15,"contents":"This central section of the poem reflects on God as the holy and powerful redeemer."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":72,"contents":"This wisdom psalm exhorts the people to learn wisdom and faithfully pass it on."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The prologue is an invitation to learn wisdom."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":4,"contents":"This story of what God has done should be told from generation to generation (see Deut 6:20-25; Prov 4:1-4)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The telling of the story should motivate God’s people to obey what he commanded (Deut 6:4-9)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God holds each generation responsible for its own response, which should be to maintain faith and hope (see 9:18; 27:14) and avoid being stubborn, rebellious, and unfaithful (see Deut 9:6-7; 10:16; 30:6; 31:27)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Ephraim, the second son of Joseph, received a special blessing from Jacob (Gen 48:15-20; 49:22-26; Deut 33:13-17). The land that his descendants received included fertile valleys and strategic roads (Judg 8:2). However, the people of Ephraim did not live in obedience to God’s gracious covenant."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The focus shifts from Ephraim (78:9-11) to Israel as a whole as the psalmist reflects on God’s power in Egypt (see 81:4-7) and in the wilderness."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":31,"contents":"Israel rebelled in the wilderness despite God’s abundant provision."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":25,"contents":"Abundance comes through the doors of heaven (Gen 8:2; 2 Kgs 7:2; Mal 3:10). • Israel ate manna for forty years in the wilderness (Exod 16:31-36; John 6:31)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":26,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":31,"contents":"God powerfully satisfied the people’s desires, but they did not respond with gratitude or faith. Therefore, God exercised his justice."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":32,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":39,"contents":"Israel’s rebellion resulted in God’s judgment, but even their short-lived and insincere repentance motivated God to exercise forbearance."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":34,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":39,"contents":"Israel’s continued existence, in spite of the people’s rebellion and unbelief (78:7-8), was due to God’s compassion."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":35,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":39,"contents":"The Israelites remembered the right doctrine (9:9; 91:1), but they did not allow God to change their hearts (Lev 26:41)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":40,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":55,"contents":"The Israelites rebelled even though the Lord had rescued them from powerful plagues."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":56,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":64,"contents":"Israel’s rebellion desecrated the Promised Land. The people built shrines to false gods and worshiped idols (78:58) during the period of the judges (e.g., Judg 2:11; 3:7, 17-18)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":68,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":69,"contents":"In the choice of Mount Zion instead of Shiloh as God’s sanctuary on earth, God moved from the north to the south (see Ps 69)."},{"start_chapter":78,"start_verse":70,"end_chapter":78,"end_verse":72,"contents":"The God who had turned against his own people (78:62) chose David, a shepherd (Gen 46:34; 1 Sam 16:10-11), to become their shepherd (Ps 78:52; cp. 23:1)."},{"start_chapter":79,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":79,"end_verse":13,"contents":"This lament describes the occasion of Jerusalem’s fall in 586 BC. The early history of Israel’s rebellions described in Ps 78 provoked God’s wrath, resulting in the desolation of Zion described here as the defilement of the Temple and the disgraced bodies that littered the landscape. The psalmist then prays for forgiveness and rescue (79:8-9), as well as for God to pay back the nation’s enemies (79:12-13). Other psalms lamenting the Exile include Pss 42–44, 102, 107, 126, 137."},{"start_chapter":79,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":79,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The poet laments the desecration of the Temple and the success of the enemy."},{"start_chapter":79,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":79,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The intensity of God’s judgment surprises the people; they cry out in despair for compassion, forgiveness, and relief. Verses 6-7 are repeated almost verbatim in Jer 10:25."},{"start_chapter":79,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":79,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The people ask God to rescue them. Although Israel’s sins caused the tragedy, the pagan nations must also be held responsible for the bloodshed."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":19,"contents":"This psalm of lament might originate with the remnant of the northern kingdom after its fall in 722 BC. The people call on God as their Shepherd and as the God of Heaven’s Armies in the hope that he will return to them and restore them. They remember the Exodus and their special relationship with the Lord and conclude with an expression of renewed commitment to him (80:18)."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist urgently calls upon the Lord to act."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":2,"contents":"God is the Shepherd of Israel: See also 23:1; 28:9; 78:52-53. • radiant glory . . . power: These expressions (145:11) refer to God’s manifest presence."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The people cry out for rescue from the shame of their recent defeat. The enemy’s victory is less devastating, however, than the knowledge that they themselves are objects of God’s wrath."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Israel has a glorious past, beginning with its redemption from Egypt."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Israel had been a prosperous grapevine (Gen 1:28; Gal 5:22-23) that God transplanted into the land of Canaan at the time of the conquest. However, the people forgot the source of their prosperity and chose to do evil (Isa 5:1-7; Hos 10:1)."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Solomon’s kingdom had extended west to the Mediterranean Sea and east to the Euphrates River (see 72:8-9; 89:25; 1 Kgs 4:21)."},{"start_chapter":80,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":80,"end_verse":19,"contents":"The community prays for God to change their desperate situation and restore them. They are still the Lord’s chosen people."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":16,"contents":"This warning message invites Israel to worship only the Lord and to enjoy the fullness of his blessing."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":3,"contents":"As a prelude to the message of warning, the psalmist invites Israel to contemplate their God in song and dance."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The festival, a time to celebrate and listen to the Lord, took place at God’s appointed time."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The Lord heard Israel’s cry in Egypt and rescued them from oppressive slavery."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":10,"contents":"God pleads with his people to remember the covenant and the Ten Commandments."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The Lord helps Israel to understand that their failure was not because of his weakness."},{"start_chapter":81,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":81,"end_verse":14,"contents":"God wants to give his children his goodness, but only if they listen (Isa 1:18-19; 28:12; 48:18-19; see Deut 6:3). • God promises to subdue the enemies (Deut 9:3) of those who walk the paths of obedience and loyalty. He will also richly feed his people (Isa 1:19)."},{"start_chapter":82,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":82,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God condemns those who mistreat the helpless."},{"start_chapter":82,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":82,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The gods (see study notes on 29:1-2; 58:1), like mere mortals, cannot escape the judgment common to human rulers. Jesus quoted from this passage in John 10:34."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":18,"contents":"This community lament asks God for rescue and victory. The terse poetry suggests difficult times. A powerful coalition desires to destroy Israel (83:1-4) and allies itself against God (83:5-8). Recalling the fate of others who came against Israel (83:9-12), the psalmist prays that the same will happen to these enemies (83:13-16) so that God will receive honor among them (83:17-18). It is unclear whether this psalm arose out of a specific historical instance of opposition by these nations, or if it is a poetic collage of nations representing Israel’s enemies."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The enemy has successfully intimidated God’s people, so the poet prays that the Lord will hear and act."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":8,"contents":"signed a treaty: The allies agreed to fight against God and his people. The nations that are named in the alliance were situated around Israel and Judah."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The Edomites, descendants of Esau, were located to the southeast of Judah (see Gen 25:30; 32:3; 36:1-8). • Ishmaelites were desert-dwelling descendants of Hagar. • Moabites and Ammonites descended from Lot; both were located to the east of Israel and Judah. • The Hagrites were possibly located north of the Ammonites (1 Chr 5:10)."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist prays that God will miraculously destroy the new coalition as he did three other enemies; doing so would bring him glory."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The Midianites, ruled by Zebah and Zalmunna and led by Oreb and Zeeb, were Israel’s enemy in the days of Gideon (Judg 7:1–8:5). Barak’s coalition defeated Sisera and Jabin (Judg 4)."},{"start_chapter":83,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":83,"end_verse":15,"contents":"fire . . . fierce storm . . . tempest: These are images of God’s manifestation in judgment (see Isa 29:6)."},{"start_chapter":84,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":84,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist expresses his deep spiritual longing for God’s presence. He faints with longing as he reflects on the Temple and on pilgrims making the journey to Jerusalem (84:1-7). He prays for himself and for the community (84:8-9). The conclusion of the psalm (84:10-12) clarifies that the Temple represents God—the psalmist truly longs for God’s presence. He knows that God’s goodness is greater than life and that only God can give his people favor and honor (84:10-11)."},{"start_chapter":84,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":84,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist is far from the Temple. He turns toward it in hopeful reflection."},{"start_chapter":84,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":84,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The pilgrimage to Jerusalem reenacted the Exodus, when God marvelously provided for his people (see 78:15-16; 105:41). The psalmist imagines the pains of travel turning to the joy of arrival."},{"start_chapter":85,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":85,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The psalmist leads the postexilic community in lament and prayer for full redemption. He ponders God’s past rescue of Israel from exile (85:1-3), longs for greater evidence of God’s goodness, and leads the community in prayer for full restoration (85:4-7). God responds with a message of peace (85:8-9), and the psalm concludes with a lyrical outburst at the grandeur of God’s salvation (85:10-13)."},{"start_chapter":85,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":85,"end_verse":5,"contents":"Though the psalmist gratefully acknowledges God’s goodness, he also asks God whether his wrath will last forever."},{"start_chapter":85,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":85,"end_verse":7,"contents":"This prayer for renewal is based on God’s unfailing love for his people."},{"start_chapter":85,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":85,"end_verse":9,"contents":"When God the Lord speaks, his faithful people listen. He promises them peace, meaning wholeness and well-being (see 37:11). They fear the Lord and know that he and his salvation are near to them. • The Lord does not tolerate foolish ways, such as those that resulted in the Exile."},{"start_chapter":85,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":85,"end_verse":13,"contents":"In the glorious world of renewal and salvation, all the qualities of God’s care—love, truth, righteousness, and peace—come together and transform the created order into something new (see Isa 32:15-20)."},{"start_chapter":86,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":86,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The psalmist invokes God’s help and praises his character in a lament prompted by the presence of evil (86:14, 17). All people will worship the gracious and almighty God (86:8-10). To this end, the poet commits himself to a lifestyle of ethical integrity (86:11) and praising the Lord (86:12-13). The last stanza contrasts the qualities of evil people with those of the Lord (86:14-17)."},{"start_chapter":86,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":86,"end_verse":4,"contents":"God’s devoted servant prays for mercy. The psalmist sees himself as a member of the covenant community and as a citizen of the world."},{"start_chapter":86,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":86,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The psalmist appeals to God to remain true to his character, which is the basis for hope."},{"start_chapter":86,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":86,"end_verse":10,"contents":"All the nations must submit themselves to the Lord and worship him (45:17; 117:1; 148:7-11)."},{"start_chapter":86,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":86,"end_verse":13,"contents":"In anticipation of God’s rescue, the psalmist praises him and trusts in his goodness."},{"start_chapter":86,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":86,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The arrogant exist both inside and outside the community. The psalmist asks for a vision of God’s character; God is so great that just a glimpse of his goodness will shut the mouths of the wicked."},{"start_chapter":87,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":87,"end_verse":7,"contents":"This psalm envisions Jerusalem as the city of God where all the nations are citizens."},{"start_chapter":87,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":87,"end_verse":6,"contents":"Jerusalem becomes the international city where all God’s children are citizens."},{"start_chapter":88,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":88,"end_verse":18,"contents":"In this lament, the psalmist sees himself as cast out from God’s presence. At first, he calls on the Lord. When he finds no relief from his suffering, he presents three charges against God (88:6-7, 8-12, 13-17)."},{"start_chapter":88,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":88,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist calls on the Lord for salvation."},{"start_chapter":88,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":88,"end_verse":7,"contents":"In his first charge, the psalmist blames the Lord for his demise. God’s overpowering anger did not make sense. • The phrase the darkest depths implies the place of the dead (143:3; see Lam 3:6) or the depths of the sea (Pss 68:22; 69:1-2)."},{"start_chapter":88,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":88,"end_verse":12,"contents":"In his second charge, the psalmist claims that God has isolated him and caused his loneliness (cp. 31:11; 38:11). Loneliness was a curse in a culture where relationships were more important than personal achievement."},{"start_chapter":88,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":88,"end_verse":17,"contents":"In his third charge, the psalmist accuses the Lord of rejecting him. The force and apparent cruelty of the psalmist’s suffering overwhelm him."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":52,"contents":"Book Three (Pss 73–89) begins and ends with weighty questions. Though Ps 89 begins with a praise-filled account of how the Lord exalted the throne of David (89:1-37), the psalmist protests the Lord’s apparent rejection of his covenant with David (89:38-51; see 2 Sam 7:8-16)."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist restates God’s covenant with David (see also 89:19-37)."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God is the absolute standard of faithfulness, commitment, and order. The angelic beings and the heavens testify to his constancy."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":13,"contents":"In this hymn, the psalmist celebrates God’s comprehensive and powerful sovereignty over nature."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The Lord rules over all parts of the created order, including evil. • You scattered your enemies: The Lord will crush (Luke 1:51) evil powers that oppose him (Ps 2:1-3). • with your mighty arm: This phrase represents God’s strength (89:13)."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":18,"contents":"God rules wisely over creation. The qualities of righteousness, justice, and faithfulness fit the profile of a wise ruler. The happy people who live under his rule enjoy his protection."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":16,"contents":"Those who are wise worship God, walk in his light, rejoice in their relationship with him, and exult in his character."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The Lord protects his people with the same power by which he established the created order."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":37,"contents":"The Lord chose David as his son and as king of Israel (see 2:4-6; 2 Sam 7:8-16) to provide protection for his people."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":26,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":29,"contents":"The Lord adopted David as his son, appointed him as his commander over the nations, and promised to support him forever. Verse 26 recalls a verse from David’s song of praise (2 Sam 22:47)."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":30,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":37,"contents":"The Lord disciplines but does not reject his erring children. He foresees violation of trust and subsequent punishment, but he commits himself to uphold the covenant. His fidelity to David corresponds to his faithfulness to the created order."},{"start_chapter":89,"start_verse":46,"end_chapter":89,"end_verse":47,"contents":"The psalmist wonders if he will live to see the end of the Lord’s anger. Our lifetimes are short, like a day in the Lord’s sight (90:4, 10)."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":17,"contents":"Although the Lord’s people have made their home in him for generations, their sin widens the gap between them and their infinite Lord. The Lord’s wrath against a person’s sin might last a lifetime and yet be only a taste of his displeasure with sin. This lamentable situation calls the community to seek the Lord’s light. Taking the first step means seeking restoration with the Lord on the basis of his compassion and love (90:13-14). He alone makes his servants glad and blesses their future generations (90:16-17)."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The Lord becomes the home of the godly; he has provided shelter for countless generations. The word translated home is not used frequently in the Psalter. It describes a place of safety where the Lord meets his needy people and cares for them (68:5; 71:3)."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":6,"contents":"Unlike God, humans are mortal and transitory."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":10,"contents":"Sinners cannot escape God’s wrath because the Lord sees their sins. Their fleeting lives are filled with afflictions."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":10,"contents":"A groan of sorrow (Ezek 2:10) sums up a life spent in facing the consequences of sin. • Humans cause trouble (see Ps 10:6) and receive pain in return."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":12,"contents":"In the search for wisdom, no one can comprehend the Lord (see Isa 40:13). The appropriate human response to the Lord is godly fear (see Ps 60:4). The Lord alone can teach humans to follow the path of wisdom (25:4-6)."},{"start_chapter":90,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":90,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The psalmist prays for the Lord’s favor and restoration."},{"start_chapter":91,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":91,"end_verse":16,"contents":"This wisdom psalm expresses confidence in the Almighty God, who provides a shelter for those who take refuge in him. They receive redemption, life, and glory from the Lord, who loves and cares for those who seek him."},{"start_chapter":91,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":91,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The Lord is an ancient shelter (see 90:1), open to those who seek refuge in him."},{"start_chapter":91,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":91,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist invites the godly to trust in the Lord and find protection in him."},{"start_chapter":91,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":91,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The godly should not be afraid, because the Lord watches over them. These promises do not guarantee an escape from trouble, but they create an expectation of the Lord’s goodness."},{"start_chapter":91,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":91,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The poet again invites the godly to seek refuge in the Lord and enjoy the benefits of divine protection."},{"start_chapter":91,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":91,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The godly can trust the Lord’s protection and provision."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":15,"contents":"Thanksgiving and praise open this psalm. The Lord—the Most High—is faithful and just in discerning between the godly and the wicked. The godly will enjoy a glorious, vigorous future, while the wicked will perish. The wise see and understand the Lord’s works as they reveal his justice (92:6-7, 11, 15). The wicked, like grass, are quickly destroyed (92:7-10)."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist offers praise and thanksgiving for God’s unfailing love and faithfulness."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":7,"contents":"Fools perish because they do not understand the Lord’s marvelous works and eternal plans."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The Lord acts and the psalmist responds in praise (92:4). God’s actions spring from his thoughts (92:5)."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Lord’s thoughts do not make sense to the simpleton or the fool, the immoral person who desires no wisdom (Prov 1:22; 10:23)."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The glory of the Lord provides the reason for the poet’s renewed strength and glory, and for the imminent defeat of the enemy."},{"start_chapter":92,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":92,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The psalmist understands the Lord’s mighty acts. He shares in the glory of the wise of heart."},{"start_chapter":93,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":100,"end_verse":5,"contents":"These psalms challenge the doubts created by the Exile (see Ps 89) and answer the questions asked in 90:11, 13. The Lord has established a kingdom (Ps 93) that is characterized by the punishment of the wicked (Ps 94), reverent obedience among his people (Ps 95), justice for the poor (Ps 96), celebration in Zion (Ps 97), salvation for Israel (Ps 98), holiness (Ps 99), and praise (Ps 100)."},{"start_chapter":93,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":93,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The everlasting Lord gloriously establishes his kingship (cp. Pss 47, 99–100)."},{"start_chapter":93,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":93,"end_verse":4,"contents":"God’s victory over natural chaos gives the psalmist confidence that the Lord will also defeat his present enemies (cp. Jer 46:8; 47:2)."},{"start_chapter":94,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":94,"end_verse":23,"contents":"This plea for the Lord’s justice includes both communal and individual expressions of lament (94:1-7, 16-23). The psalmist gives voice to the pain and suffering caused by the wicked, but he also depicts the comfort and stability of the Lord’s protection. He calls on the Lord to avenge the needy against the arrogant and foolish, he rebukes such people for their folly (94:8-11), and he pronounces a blessing on the wise (94:12-15)."},{"start_chapter":94,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":94,"end_verse":7,"contents":"After the community falls victim to the wicked (94:5-7), they pray that the Lord will render justice (see 7:11; 9:12)."},{"start_chapter":94,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":94,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist rebukes human folly."},{"start_chapter":94,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":94,"end_verse":15,"contents":"True to his nature, the Lord rewards those who live by his wise instruction and makes them happy according to his promises."},{"start_chapter":94,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":94,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The psalmist’s prayer resumes (see 94:1-7) with a desperate cry for the Lord’s justice; it concludes with the hopeful expectation that evil will end."},{"start_chapter":94,"start_verse":18,"end_chapter":94,"end_verse":19,"contents":"The psalmist’s experience of slipping contrasts with God’s promise to stand with him (94:12-13; see 15:5; 93:1)."},{"start_chapter":95,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":95,"end_verse":11,"contents":"This call to worship urges the people to respond to the Lord, the Shepherd, and to follow him faithfully. The previous generation, who refused to obey, did not receive the blessings of the Promised Land."},{"start_chapter":95,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":95,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The Lord is the great King over the whole universe."},{"start_chapter":95,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":95,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The whole created order owes its existence to the sovereign Lord alone—not to various gods."},{"start_chapter":95,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":95,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The great King cares for his people as a shepherd cares for his flock (Isa 40:11). • The Lord our maker, the Creator of heaven and earth, also made a people for himself (Isa 45:9-12; 51:12-16)."},{"start_chapter":95,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":95,"end_verse":11,"contents":"If people want to enter into the Lord’s rest, they need to respond immediately (see Heb 3:7–4:11)."},{"start_chapter":96,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":96,"end_verse":13,"contents":"This psalm establishes the Lord’s universal kingship (see Ps 93) and prepares for the coming of the Lord to bring justice and righteousness into the world. The psalmist invites everyone to worship the Lord (96:1-3), the glorious Creator of all the earth (96:4-6), because worship is due to him alone (96:7-9). The universe joins in praise as the righteous Judge establishes a new order (96:10-13). • This psalm (along with 105:1-15; 106:1, 47-48) is included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chr 16:1-43."},{"start_chapter":96,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":96,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The gods of the nations are as nothing before the glorious and majestic Creator of the earth."},{"start_chapter":96,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":96,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The psalmist exhorts the created order to respond with joy to the news of the Lord’s coming. Cp. a similar theme in 98:7-9."},{"start_chapter":97,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":97,"end_verse":12,"contents":"God is greatly exalted over the gods and over all the earth. Awe-inspiring phenomena accompany his coming. Even the created order is visibly affected and the wicked perish, but the people of Zion love his coming and rejoice."},{"start_chapter":97,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":97,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Dark clouds . . . Fire . . . lightning: This language shows that the Lord is coming in judgment."},{"start_chapter":97,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":97,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The created order stirs at the coming of its King. He alone deserves worship."},{"start_chapter":97,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":97,"end_verse":12,"contents":"Jerusalem rejoices at the news of the Lord’s coming, for he brings justice and rescues the upright of heart."},{"start_chapter":98,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":98,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This psalm celebrates the Lord’s kingship. The Lord is Israel’s true King, its champion and savior. His people sing a new song celebrating his victorious power and faithfulness to them. The Lord displays his righteous rule to all the nations throughout the earth, which will culminate in a worldwide kingdom of justice (98:2, 9). Consequently, all the earth must worship and rejoice together because the Lord is coming (98:4-6)."},{"start_chapter":98,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":98,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The Lord makes known his righteousness and faithfulness (see also Isa 52:10)."},{"start_chapter":98,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":98,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist invites the whole earth to worship the King (see 96:1)."},{"start_chapter":98,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":98,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The created order is personified as rejoicing at the coming of the righteous Judge (see 93:3-4; 96:11-13)."},{"start_chapter":99,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":99,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The psalmist calls the nations to worship the Lord, the king of the earth who rules from Zion."},{"start_chapter":99,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":99,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The Lord is the holy and righteous King (Isa 6:1-5). Mount Zion, the location of the Lord’s Temple, metaphorically stands as the highest point on earth (Ps 113:4; Isa 2:2; 6:1). From this summit, the Great King (Ps 47:2) can see, rule over, and receive praise from all nations and peoples."},{"start_chapter":99,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":99,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God showed favor by responding to his people in the past, while holding sinners accountable."},{"start_chapter":100,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":100,"end_verse":5,"contents":"This psalm calls all nations to come to Jerusalem to worship the Lord and acknowledge his goodness to Israel."},{"start_chapter":101,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":101,"end_verse":8,"contents":"This hymn expresses a commitment to live with integrity and to avoid evil. Jesus meets this ideal."},{"start_chapter":101,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":101,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist hates what the Lord hates (Prov 6:16-19; see Pss 5:5; 11:4-5). • Perverse ideas come from corrupt human hearts (cp. 18:26)."},{"start_chapter":101,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":101,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist commits himself to ridding his house and the city of the Lord—representing the entire kingdom—of all evil."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":28,"contents":"A frail and afflicted human being prays for the Lord’s compassion on Jerusalem and for his presence with its inhabitants."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist appeals to the Lord not to turn away (or hide your face). Israel experienced his turning his face away during their exile."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist cannot sleep (see 63:6-8). Like a bird on the roof, he feels isolated from both friends (see 88:8) and enemies."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The topic changes from the psalmist’s miseries to the Lord’s glory. A vision of the Lord’s compassionate kingship gives him confidence in Zion’s future."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":16,"contents":"When the Lord arises (102:13), the nations will tremble with fear because they will see his glory (see 8:1; 19:1-4a; 24:7). The rebuilding of Zion and the Temple portray God’s glory and fulfill this promise. An even greater fulfillment will come with the New Jerusalem (Rev 21)."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":18,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":22,"contents":"The Lord will have mercy; Jews and Gentiles alike will worship him."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":28,"contents":"Although the psalmist suffers in the present, he bases his hope for the future on the Lord’s past faithfulness."},{"start_chapter":102,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":102,"end_verse":27,"contents":"In contrast with the permanence of the Creator, the created order will wear out like a piece of clothing (see Isa 40:28). • The writer to the Hebrews describes this passage as having been addressed to Jesus, the Son (Heb 1:10-12)."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":22,"contents":"This psalm celebrates the Lord’s perfection, compassion, forgiveness, and goodness."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist offers praise for the Lord’s goodness."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Let all that I am praise the Lord: Pss 103 and 104 each open and close with this commitment (103:1-2, 22; 104:1, 35; see also 146:1)."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The Lord revealed himself to Moses in distinctive ways that ensured his relationship with his people (see Exod 34:6-7; Num 14:18)."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The Lord’s love and forgiveness are infinite and complete."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The Lord compassionately cares for frail humans (see 37:2; 90:5; 92:7; 102:4; Isa 40:6-8)."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":19,"contents":"the love of the Lord remains forever: The Lord’s kingdom is everlasting, so he commits himself to his people across many generations."},{"start_chapter":103,"start_verse":20,"end_chapter":103,"end_verse":21,"contents":"The psalmist exhorts the Lord’s angels, his servants and messengers, to praise the Lord."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":35,"contents":"This creation hymn (see also Pss 8, 33, 145) exalts God’s goodness and majesty. The psalmist reflects on the present world, the original creation, and a future new creation. He sees both creations as marvelously and wisely made (cp. 139:14), as the work of the Lord’s Spirit (104:30; Gen 1:2; 2 Cor 3:6)."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist interacts with two of the days of creation (see Gen 1:1-8), when God created the heavens and light."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The Lord reigns over all bodies of water, including those on land. He replaced chaotic waters with order and abundance, and the earth became a splendid place for animals and humans, with water refreshing the ground, the birds, and the animals."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist celebrates animal, plant, and human life, as well as the Lord’s abundant provision for all of it (Gen 1:9-30)."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The storks migrated from northern Europe and resided in Palestine during the winter. • hyraxes: These animals are about the size of a rabbit and live in rocky places."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":23,"contents":"The psalmist rejoices in the order of night and day, marking day four of creation (Gen 1:14-19). This cycle gives all creatures an opportunity to live."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":20,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":23,"contents":"Cycles of darkness and dawn mark the days on earth."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":24,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":26,"contents":"The Lord’s works testify to his wisdom. All parts fit together—land and sea, night and day, land creatures and sea creatures. The Lord’s wisdom makes life orderly and wonderful."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":27,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":30,"contents":"All life depends on the gracious sustenance of the Lord of life and death (cp. Matt 6:11)."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":29,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":30,"contents":"When you give them your breath: Life on earth is only possible as the Lord’s gift, symbolized by his breath (Hebrew ruakh, “breath, wind, spirit”). The Lord’s Spirit is the agent of renewal (Isa 32:15-20)."},{"start_chapter":104,"start_verse":31,"end_chapter":104,"end_verse":35,"contents":"The psalmist moves from describing the known creation to anticipating the new creation, when the Lord will renew the created order into a world without sinners."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":45,"contents":"This hymn praises the Lord’s faithfulness to Abraham and his descendants in all their journeys—from Ur to Canaan (105:12), to Egypt (105:17, 23), through the wilderness (105:37, 41), and back to Canaan (105:44). All of this fulfilled the Lord’s promise to Abraham (105:9, 42), which was the basis for Israel’s very existence. Joseph, whose suffering was changed into glory, is a paradigm of encouragement for Israel (105:16-25). • Psalm 105:1-15 (along with 96; 106:1, 47-48) is included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chr 16."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The poet begins with the exhortation Give thanks (see also 106:1; 107:1; 118:1; 136:1). The other psalms continue with the refrain “for he is good!” The rest of Ps 105 tells of God’s goodness."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The story of Israel is based on the Lord’s commitment to Abraham. Even when a question arises about the future of God’s covenant with David (Ps 89), God’s covenant with Abraham stands, as does the spiritual bond between God and Israel, Abraham’s descendants."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The Lord protected Israel’s patriarchs."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":22,"contents":"These verses tell the story of Joseph (see Gen 37–41)."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":25,"contents":"These verses tell the story of Israel’s affliction in Egypt (see Exod 1:1-14)."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":26,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":36,"contents":"The psalmist recounts the story of Moses and the plagues in Egypt (Exod 7:20–12:30)."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":37,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":45,"contents":"The Exodus and the conquest of Canaan fulfilled God’s promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (105:9-10). Unlike Ps 78, the poet recites the Lord’s goodness without commenting on Israel’s history of rebellion (cp. Ps 106)."},{"start_chapter":105,"start_verse":42,"end_chapter":105,"end_verse":45,"contents":"The story of redemption is also the story of the Lord’s faithfulness."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":48,"contents":"The Israelite community in exile confessed the Lord’s goodness and justice and their own historic sinfulness. From the humble state of exile, they pleaded for redemption and restoration, asking to be gathered back from all the places the Lord had scattered them in his wrath. The psalm does not end in despair but with the memory of the Lord’s former mercy and the hope that his mercy will be renewed (106:44-48). Israel failed, but the Lord is constant. • Verses 1, 47-48 (along with Pss 96; 105:1-15) are included in David’s song of praise recorded in 1 Chr 16:1-43."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Wise people who practice justice and righteousness receive encouragement to proclaim the Lord’s great acts."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The poet prays individually for the Lord’s favor before leading the community confession that follows."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The community joins together to confess their sins and their ancestors’ many acts of unbelief."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The people became jealous because they presumed to have the same privileges as God’s appointed priests (see Num 16:1-35). • the earth opened up: See Num 16:28-33."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":23,"contents":"they bowed before an image: The people forgot their Savior and committed the sin of idolatry (see Exod 32:1-6)."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":24,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":25,"contents":"The people disobeyed God’s command when they refused to enter the pleasant land (the Promised Land; see Jer 3:19). • they wouldn’t believe his promise: See Num 13:25–14:12."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":26,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":27,"contents":"God’s judgment when Israel refused to obey was death and exile (Num 14:26-30). The occasion for these severe judgments seems to have been disobeying God’s word (Ps 106:24-25) and provoking the Lord’s wrath (106:28-46)."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":28,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":39,"contents":"Israel’s idolatry outside of the land came with them into the land. Their nature did not change; they continued to provoke the Lord to anger by their actions."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":30,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":33,"contents":"Phinehas, who executed a flagrantly apostate Israelite man (Num 25:3-8), is an even better model of a righteous man than Moses, who failed at Meribah (Num 20:11-13)."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":40,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":46,"contents":"The psalmist returns to the Babylonian exile (106:26-27). The Lord judged Israel severely, but he also restrained his wrath, remembering the covenant he had made with Abraham."},{"start_chapter":106,"start_verse":43,"end_chapter":106,"end_verse":44,"contents":"When Israel was finally destroyed, the destruction was not complete. The Lord pitied them, so he left a remnant."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":43,"contents":"This psalm is a hymn of praise to God the Redeemer. After an introduction exhorting the redeemed to praise God for his goodness (107:1-3), the psalmist brings together four case studies of people whom the Lord redeemed from adversity (107:4-32). He then sums up the Lord’s sovereignty (107:33-42) and concludes with an invitation to discern God’s unfailing love in all areas of life (107:43)."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Those who were lost in the wilderness thank God for his rescue. The wilderness might be a metaphor for leaving the path of wisdom (1:1; Prov 4:10-15)."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":8,"contents":"God led them like a shepherd (see 23:1). • Verse 8 is a refrain that is repeated in 107:15, 21, 31."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":16,"contents":"The psalmist calls for thanksgiving and praise from people in despair over the consequences of their rebellion."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":22,"contents":"Fools who received what they deserved but were rescued from death offer thanksgiving to the Lord."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":32,"contents":"Sailors give thanks to the Lord when he saves them from the chaos and peril of the sea."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":29,"contents":"The same God who speaks and brings about the sailors’ distress can also calm the storm with just a word (cp. Jon 1:4; Matt 8:26)."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":33,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":42,"contents":"These two sections (107:33-38, 39-42) expand the theme of the Lord’s sovereignty over things that humans cannot control."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":33,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":35,"contents":"The Lord can choose to make the earth fertile or barren (74:15; Isa 35:6-7)."},{"start_chapter":107,"start_verse":42,"end_chapter":107,"end_verse":43,"contents":"Justice prevails in God’s world (1:6), and Israel’s history demonstrates God’s faithful love."},{"start_chapter":108,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":108,"end_verse":13,"contents":"This psalm combines two excerpts from David’s other psalms (cp. 57:5, 7-11; 60:5-12)."},{"start_chapter":109,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":109,"end_verse":31,"contents":"The psalmist begins this lament with a general charge against his accusers: They do evil in return for good (109:1-5). At the end of the psalm, he turns to the Lord in prayer, asking for his protection (109:21-25) and vengeance (109:26-31)."},{"start_chapter":109,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":109,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist’s acts of kindness and godliness (see 35:12-14) have only met with stubborn opposition and expressions of hatred."},{"start_chapter":109,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":109,"end_verse":19,"contents":"The NLT translates these verses as the words of the psalmist’s accusers; Hebrew lacks They say, which makes it unclear who is speaking."},{"start_chapter":109,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":109,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Family members of those guilty of capital crimes often died with the perpetrator (Num 16:1-33; Josh 7:1-25) or had their property confiscated (1 Kgs 21:13-16)."},{"start_chapter":109,"start_verse":21,"end_chapter":109,"end_verse":25,"contents":"Vulnerable and miserable, the psalmist appeals to his Lord for help. The accusations have killed his inner spirit and even his physical stamina."},{"start_chapter":109,"start_verse":26,"end_chapter":109,"end_verse":31,"contents":"These verses form a prayer for God’s presence and for vindication. The psalmist wants everyone to see that he is vindicated by the Lord, not by any human agent."},{"start_chapter":110,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":110,"end_verse":7,"contents":"Jesus and the apostles cite this psalm to explain Jesus’ unique ministry and status as the Messiah (Matt 22:43-45; Acts 2:32-36). It reaffirms God’s covenant with David and gives hope for the future (see 2 Sam 7:8-16)."},{"start_chapter":110,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":110,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The kingdom will expand and increase, beginning from Jerusalem, until all enemies are conquered."},{"start_chapter":110,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":110,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The new priestly role of David’s descendant does not rescind his old role as conquering ruler. He must still bring the nations under his rule (110:2-3; see Ps 2)."},{"start_chapter":110,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":110,"end_verse":6,"contents":"at your right hand: This position brings help and protection (see 16:7-8; 108:13). • The Lord will strike down rebellious kings. Rebellion against the Lord is a capital offense (Ps 2; Rom 6:23)."},{"start_chapter":111,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":117,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The refrain Praise the Lord! (Hebrew haleluyah) characterizes this group of psalms."},{"start_chapter":111,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":111,"end_verse":10,"contents":"This wisdom psalm contains many references to the works of the Lord that reveal his character. God is righteous, gracious, compassionate, faithful, just, trustworthy, upright, holy, and awe-inspiring (111:3, 4, 7, 8, 9). God’s character gives hope in the covenant relationship (111:5). He rescued Israel from Egypt (111:9), gave them the land (111:6), and provides for his people (111:5). However, God demands that the beneficiaries of this relationship also be people of righteousness and integrity."},{"start_chapter":111,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":111,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The godly praise God and delight themselves in his great works. His mighty acts reflect his righteousness, grace, and compassion (see 116:5-7). All who submit themselves to him experience his glory."},{"start_chapter":111,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":111,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Giving Israel the lands of other nations was just and good because the Lord was executing his justice on those he dispossessed and showing grace to the Israelites. However, if the Israelites do not live faithfully and with integrity, they will also be dispossessed. The Lord’s people must reflect his character."},{"start_chapter":112,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":112,"end_verse":10,"contents":"This psalm reiterates the themes of wisdom and the fear of the Lord (Ps 111). The wise have reason to be happy (112:1-5) and vigorous (112:6-10)."},{"start_chapter":112,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":112,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The fear of the Lord leads to a life of wisdom that honors God and blesses the family and community. The godly joyfully imitate God; their obedience is not slavish."},{"start_chapter":112,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":112,"end_verse":3,"contents":"successful: All will know the children of godly people (see 127:4) because the godly leave a legacy for their children (see 1:3; cp. Matt 6:20)."},{"start_chapter":112,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":112,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The godly imitate God by being generous, compassionate, and righteous (51:1; 111:1-10; 2 Cor 9:9). They lend money to the poor without charging interest (Pss 15:5; 112:9; Exod 22:25)."},{"start_chapter":113,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":29,"contents":"These psalms form what is known as the “Egyptian Hallel” (hallel means “praise”) because Jews use the collection in the celebration of Passover, which was instituted at the beginning of the exodus from Egypt. Psalms 113–114 are recited before the Passover meal and Pss 115–118 afterward."},{"start_chapter":113,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":113,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This hymn of praise exalts the greatness of the Lord’s name and glory. God is greatly exalted and glorious in heaven (113:4); he also stoops down to take care of the lowly and needy on earth (113:5-9)."},{"start_chapter":113,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":113,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The name of the Lord (Hebrew Yahweh; see Exod 3:15) reveals his being, character, and reputation. He is exalted in time (now and forever) and in space (from east to west)."},{"start_chapter":113,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":113,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The incomparable Lord intimately involves himself in caring for people on earth."},{"start_chapter":113,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":113,"end_verse":8,"contents":"These phrases are a quotation from Hannah’s prayer of praise (1 Sam 2:8-9a)."},{"start_chapter":114,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":114,"end_verse":8,"contents":"This lyrical celebration of the Lord’s power in nature recalls Israel’s beginning as a nation at the Exodus (114:1-2) and upon their entry to the Promised Land (114:3-6). It promotes reverence for the God of Jacob (114:7-8)."},{"start_chapter":114,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":114,"end_verse":2,"contents":"At the time of Israel’s exodus from Egypt and their entrance into the Promised Land, Israel was one holy kingdom (Exod 19:5-6). • The separate references to the land of Judah and Israel indicate that the psalm was composed after the kingdom was divided (1 Kgs 12:16-17; cp. 1 Sam 11:8; 1 Kgs 1:35), and probably after the Exile. The land of Judah became God’s sanctuary because the people worshiped God; his Tabernacle and later his Temple were located there."},{"start_chapter":114,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":114,"end_verse":4,"contents":"hurried out of their way! The waters divided for Israel to escape Egypt (77:17-18; Exod 14). • The Jordan River turned away when Israel arrived to cross over (see Josh 3). • skipped like rams: God’s presence caused the mountains to quake (Exod 19:16-20)."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":18,"contents":"In this hymn of thanksgiving for God’s blessings, the community ascribes all glory to the name of the Lord, who is the true source of hope and blessing. Meanwhile, those who trust in idols are greatly disappointed. The blessing of the Creator of heaven and earth extends to future generations (115:14), and especially to the priesthood (115:12)."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The community confesses their faith that God will rescue them for the glory of his name."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Where is their God? People deny God’s presence or power when he does not act as they think he should (cp. 14:1; 42:3, 10). However, God is in the heavens—he has all power, authority, and knowledge. He does as he wishes, not what people think he should do. He works out his plans in accord with his will (Eph 1:11) and acts in his own time and in ways he chooses."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":11,"contents":"This entire section is repeated in 135:15-20. • Unlike the Lord (95:3-5), idols cannot do anything; they are good for nothing."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Israel . . . priests . . . you who fear the Lord: The psalmist calls on all those in the God-fearing community to commit their ways to the living God. The threefold address assures them that the Lord is their true helper and shield (cp. 118:2-4)."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":13,"contents":"The groups named in 115:9-11 receive assurance of the Lord’s blessing, regardless of their social status (see 113:8)."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":15,"contents":"The psalmist blesses (107:37-38, 41) all who trust in and fear the Lord. The Creator will care for the families of those who fear him. • who made heaven and earth: This statement speaks of the Lord’s all-encompassing power in creation."},{"start_chapter":115,"start_verse":16,"end_chapter":115,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The heavens belong to the Lord:’s: God’s exaltation begins in heaven (113:4), far above the gods of the nations. Of course, the earth also belongs to him (47:9; 95:4). • The dead cannot participate in God’s blessings. The living praise God in thanksgiving for his blessings (79:13)."},{"start_chapter":116,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":116,"end_verse":19,"contents":"This hymn of thanksgiving rejoices in God’s character and in rescue from death (116:1-11). It gives an assurance of God’s protection in life and reminds the godly that the Lord watches over them even at death. The psalmist commits to living as God’s servant and resolves to honor him publicly (116:12-19)."},{"start_chapter":116,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":116,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist praises the Lord for answering his prayers and rescuing him from death."},{"start_chapter":116,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":116,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The gracious, righteous, and compassionate Lord (see 111:1-5) rescued and gave rest to the psalmist."},{"start_chapter":116,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":116,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist’s near-death crisis made him more aware of life and of walking before the Lord. Though he had been in anguish, the Lord was faithful. However, people are all liars."},{"start_chapter":116,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":116,"end_verse":14,"contents":"The Lord’s gracious gifts are so great that the psalmist can do nothing to repay his debt. Keeping his promises publicly demonstrates his gratitude. • All he has done for the psalmist includes answers to prayer, rescue, and life. • The cup of salvation overflows with God’s blessings (23:5), unlike the cup of judgment (75:8). • The psalmist makes promises (“vows,” 116:18) to praise the Lord publicly (116:17-18)."},{"start_chapter":116,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":116,"end_verse":19,"contents":"No one lives or dies outside of God’s will. Having been given a second chance at life, the poet readily commits himself to the Lord with renewed acts of public devotion."},{"start_chapter":117,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":117,"end_verse":2,"contents":"This psalm, the shortest in the Psalter, invites all . . . people of the earth to praise the Lord because of his unfailing love and enduring faithfulness."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":29,"contents":"With an exultant testimony, the psalmist gives thanks for the Lord’s goodness and encourages others to trust in his faithful love (118:1-4, 29). This poem is the last of the Egyptian Hallel (Pss 113–118)."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Israel . . . Aaron’s descendants . . . all who fear the Lord: These three groups represent the whole of the covenant community (cp. 115:9-11; 135:19-20)."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The Lord alone is the psalmist’s helper."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The Lord is for me: Cp. Rom 8:31; Heb 13:6. • God’s presence cancels out the need to fear mere people (Ps 56:11). The psalmist joyfully expects God’s rescue (59:10; 112:8)."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Trusting in the Lord is better than placing confidence in even the most powerful human leaders (118:6; 146:3)."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":12,"contents":"Strength comes in the name of the Lord, declared by the threefold mention of the attackers, the Lord’s name, and victory. • Even when hostile people blazed . . . like a crackling fire, the Lord caused them to subside like burning thorns (see Isa 9:18; 10:17)."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist celebrates the victory of the Lord’s strong right arm, which kept him from death."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":21,"contents":"God has restored the psalmist from death to life, so he praises the Lord publicly (cp. 116:6, 12-19)."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":22,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist sees his own salvation as the beginning of a new day in which the Lord will do great things."},{"start_chapter":118,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":118,"end_verse":29,"contents":"The psalmist concludes with prayer and thanksgiving, anticipating an even greater revelation of God’s victory and rescue."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":176,"contents":"This psalm combines elements of wisdom, lament, praise, thanksgiving, and confession. Eight Hebrew words are used frequently, translated as “instructions,” “laws,” “words,” “regulations,” “statutes,” “commands,” “decrees,” “commandments,” and “promises.” Together, these words encourage love for and obedience to God’s instructions, as found in the Scriptures (see 2 Tim 3:14-17). The expression of deep commitment to these instructions unifies the psalm."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Aleph (א): God, the author of these instructions, commands that his followers live by them. The psalmist prays to be given the grace to live by that revelation."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The wise are happy. They are people of integrity (see 84:11) who follow the path of divine instruction. They obey God’s revelation and search for it with all their hearts (see 27:7; 119:10, 45, 94, 155), and they reject all forms of evil. Cp. 1:1-2."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":16,"contents":"Beth (ב): The psalmist is determined to pursue purity and encourages the cultivation of wisdom through God’s principles (119:9) and instructions (119:10-16)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":24,"contents":"Gimel (ג): Like a foreigner in hostile territory, God’s servant needs God’s guidance."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":17,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The psalmist seeks to please the Lord with a full and obedient life of praise (118:17; 119:25, 77, 116, 144, 175). Only the Lord can remove his adversaries and enable him to see the wonderful truths found in God’s instructions."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":20,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":21,"contents":"The arrogant are probably those who mock the psalmist (119:22-23)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":24,"contents":"Those who meditate on God’s instructions receive wise advice from them."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":25,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":32,"contents":"Daleth (ד): Though the poet feels anguish and sorrow, he entreats the Lord to revive him because he wants to obey the Lord. Suffering and death may result from the Lord’s chastening (118:17-18; 119:67, 71, 75), but his instruction revives the weary soul (see 119:12)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":33,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":40,"contents":"He (ה): As a student, the poet asks his teacher, God, to renew life and to transform disgrace into righteousness."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":41,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":48,"contents":"Waw (ו): The psalmist prays that God’s word would continue to be the source of his love and salvation."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":41,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":43,"contents":"The psalmist asks to be saved from enemies who speak harshly (see 42:10; 44:16; 89:50-51; 102:8)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":44,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":46,"contents":"The psalmist is determined to obey the Lord."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":47,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":48,"contents":"The psalmist finds delight in God’s word in spite of pain (119:92, 143)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":49,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":56,"contents":"Zayin (ז): The psalmist asks God to remember his word as the psalmist also remembers God’s word and his name. Remembrance expresses devotion."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":57,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":64,"contents":"Heth (ח): The psalmist seeks God’s favor and unfailing love. Although surrounded by evildoers, he remains a loyal servant of the Lord."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":65,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":72,"contents":"Teth (ט): The psalmist describes himself as a penitent sinner who gratefully accepts the Lord’s discipline."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":65,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":68,"contents":"Good judgment and knowledge come from wisdom (111:10). • The psalmist admits that he used to wander off like a stray sheep (119:176). • you disciplined me: See 119:25-29. • You are good and do only good: God’s character is perfect (97:2; Jas 1:17; 1 Jn 1:5)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":73,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":80,"contents":"Yodh (י): In this prayer for comfort and compassion, the psalmist commits himself to his Creator, who has afflicted him. He wants God to pay back his enemies for the wrongs they have done. He also prays to receive the gift of life. He not only prays for himself but also considers the whole community of the godly, asking that God’s answers to prayer would encourage them."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":73,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":76,"contents":"As God’s child, the psalmist asks for divine wisdom."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":81,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":88,"contents":"Kaph (כ): The psalmist is worn out from waiting for the Lord, but his hope is in God’s future rescue."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":85,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":88,"contents":"God’s word is trustworthy, in contrast to the deceptions of the enemies who hunt the psalmist down without cause (see 119:78)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":89,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":96,"contents":"Lamedh (ל): The stability of God’s wisdom gives understanding. God’s word provides order and a framework for living, even when under pressure from adversaries."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":97,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":104,"contents":"Mem (מ): The instruction and wisdom of God through his word are far superior to the best that human teachers can offer."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":97,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":102,"contents":"make me wiser: God’s word provides wisdom and perspective. God is the true source of wisdom."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":103,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":104,"contents":"Wisdom is preferable to even the finest food (19:10; 81:16). • The psalmist had already rejected the delusion offered by the way of folly (see 119:18, 78, 86, 163)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":105,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":112,"contents":"Nun (נ): The psalmist’s devotion to God’s word comes from within his being (119:112) and guides his external life."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":105,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":106,"contents":"The Lord’s word is a lamp that provides perspective, hope, and guidance in darkness (18:25-29; 119:130). Even more, this light gives life (Prov 6:23)."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":108,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":112,"contents":"offering of praise: This Hebrew expression is unique in the Old Testament (cp. 50:23). • The psalmist is vulnerable to his opponents because of his commitment to a wise life."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":113,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":120,"contents":"Samekh (ס): The psalmist declares his hatred of evil and his love for God and his ways."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":121,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":128,"contents":"Ayin (ע): The servant of the Lord strains to endure the evil around him. He boldly petitions the Lord to rescue him immediately!"},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":129,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":136,"contents":"Pe (פ): The psalmist prays earnestly for God to speak to him as he suffers from his adversities."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":137,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":144,"contents":"Tsadhe (צ): God is righteous, and his word is right and just, especially in contrast to the deceptions of the wicked."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":145,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":152,"contents":"Qoph (ק): The psalmist prays to the Lord at night. Although God appears to be distant, he is nearby."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":145,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":148,"contents":"I pray and I cry out translate the same Hebrew verb. • I rise early and I stay awake translate the same Hebrew verb."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":150,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":151,"contents":"Coming to attack me (or are coming near to me) is a Hebrew wordplay on but you are near. The wicked remain far from God’s instructions, whereas the psalmist stays near, so he does not need to fear."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":153,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":160,"contents":"Resh (ר): This petition for life can be found throughout Ps 119, but it is concentrated in this stanza."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":161,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":168,"contents":"Shin (ש): The psalmist looks beyond his adversaries to the peace of God. This perspective allows him to praise God throughout the day."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":161,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":164,"contents":"my heart trembles . . . I rejoice: Fear, trembling, and joy mark the psalmist’s devotion to God. • God’s word is a treasure. • In the Old Testament, seven signifies wholeness."},{"start_chapter":119,"start_verse":169,"end_chapter":119,"end_verse":176,"contents":"Taw (ת): God’s servant petitions the Lord one final time; he still feels like a lost sheep."},{"start_chapter":120,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":134,"end_verse":3,"contents":"These short, appealing songs were sung during pilgrims’ journeys to Jerusalem for the national festivals three times per year (Deut 16:16). The title of these psalms includes the Hebrew word for stairs, which some take to mean “ascending to Jerusalem.” These psalms (sometimes called the Songs of Ascents) take the reader on a pilgrimage to Jerusalem to praise God for his goodness to Israel throughout history."},{"start_chapter":120,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":120,"end_verse":7,"contents":"This short, individual lament expresses the psalmist’s trust that the Lord will deal with deceptive evildoers. It also laments living as a stranger among hateful liars. The psalmist’s picture of his life in a foreign land might have been a reality as he set out for Jerusalem, or it might depict his feelings and concerns as he begins his pilgrimage. Overwhelmed with injustice, he trusts God and looks forward to arriving in the Lord’s presence."},{"start_chapter":120,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":120,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist is surrounded by liars, so he makes his lament to the Lord, the only one who can help him."},{"start_chapter":120,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":120,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist dialogues with the liars who surround him. He feels reassured that the Lord will judge them. • The Divine Warrior (see 7:12-13; 11:4-6) will throw sharp arrows and glowing coals on the liars."},{"start_chapter":120,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":120,"end_verse":7,"contents":"The psalmist feels the anguish of alienation, isolation, and perpetual conflict."},{"start_chapter":120,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":120,"end_verse":7,"contents":"peace: See 37:11; 122:6-9; 125:5; 128:6."},{"start_chapter":121,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":121,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The leader of the group of pilgrims uses word pictures to assure the group of the Lord’s presence during the journey."},{"start_chapter":121,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":121,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Creator (121:2) is the guardian of Israel. • God stands beside Israel, supporting and caring for the godly (see 16:7-8). • Both the sun and the moon were regarded as deities in the ancient Near East, but the Creator limits their power. They, too, praise the Lord (148:3)."},{"start_chapter":122,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":122,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Jerusalem is here idealized as the city of God, the city of David, and the city of faith. A group of people on a pilgrimage joyfully arrive in the city (122:1-2). The psalmist sings an ode to Jerusalem (122:3-5) and prays for the city’s peace (122:6-9)."},{"start_chapter":122,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":122,"end_verse":5,"contents":"Jerusalem is a metaphor for God’s heavenly dwelling. David was the archetype for God’s chosen rulers."},{"start_chapter":122,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":122,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Prayers for the peace of Jerusalem are motivated by love of family and God’s sanctuary."},{"start_chapter":123,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":123,"end_verse":4,"contents":"This lament on the psalmist’s lowly position expresses vivid trust in the Lord (123:1-2). The psalmist prays for God’s favor on the community, as the reality of evil surrounds them (123:3-4). The poet looks beyond Jerusalem (Ps 122) to God’s throne in heaven."},{"start_chapter":124,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":124,"end_verse":8,"contents":"This thanksgiving song describes what might happen if the Lord were not present with his people."},{"start_chapter":124,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":124,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The negative rhetorical questions emphasize the positive idea that the Lord was indeed on their side."},{"start_chapter":124,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":124,"end_verse":5,"contents":"the raging waters of their fury: The enemies could have overwhelmed the Israelites and wiped them out if the Lord had not been with his people (cp. 69:15; Jer 46:8)."},{"start_chapter":124,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":124,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The enemies of God’s people, like lions or bears who tear their prey with their teeth (see 57:4; Prov 28:15), had their mouths shut by the Lord (Dan 6:22)."},{"start_chapter":125,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":125,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist expresses the community’s confidence in the Lord’s protection (125:1-2) and prays for peace (125:3-5)."},{"start_chapter":125,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":125,"end_verse":5,"contents":"People who reject the straight path of the upright are fools (Prov 2:12-15). God pours out his goodness on the godly (see Ps 122:6-9)."},{"start_chapter":126,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":126,"end_verse":6,"contents":"This hymn celebrates Israel’s return from exile (126:1-3). The psalmist prays for full restoration (126:4-6)."},{"start_chapter":126,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":126,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The Lord brought about Israel’s restoration from exile, just as he had brought Israel out of Egypt (114:1). The restoration transformed the weeping of the Lord’s people into laughter and showed the Lord’s character to the nations (9:11; 64:9; Isa 12:4)."},{"start_chapter":126,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":126,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The prophets had spoken of the restoration as a time when the wilderness would change into the Garden of Eden (Isa 51:3; Ezek 47); the reality fell far short of paradise. Here the restoration community prays for full redemption (see Hag 2:19). • as streams renew the desert: The seasonal rains filled the dry river beds (wadis), and the land turned green again. The prayer looks for a similar transformation of Israel’s fortunes, a fulfillment of the imagery of the “Second Exodus” in Isaiah (see “The Promise of a Second Exodus” Theme Note). • The harvest represents God’s full restoration."},{"start_chapter":127,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":127,"end_verse":5,"contents":"Blessing and protection come from God. Without his presence, there is no success (127:1-2). This is particularly true for children, who are God’s gift (127:3-5)."},{"start_chapter":127,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":127,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Unless: These conditional sentences emphasize the positive idea that the Lord will protect the city (cp. 124:1-2). • Human effort is futile unless the Lord blesses it (see 44:3). • from early morning until late at night: This depicts an aggressive and competitive lifestyle. • God’s loved ones enjoy a quiet night’s sleep (3:5; 4:8)."},{"start_chapter":127,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":127,"end_verse":5,"contents":"Children are one of God’s blessings. The words translated “children” (Hebrew banim) and “builders” (bonim, 127:1) form a wordplay. Having children builds a family."},{"start_chapter":127,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":127,"end_verse":5,"contents":"like arrows: God uses children to protect the reputation of his people against the wicked (cp. 120:4; 7:12-13)."},{"start_chapter":128,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":128,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The godly, who fear the Lord, will know true happiness (128:1-2). The Lord is with them (see 127:1-2), building their home life (128:3-4) and blessing them across the generations (128:5-6)."},{"start_chapter":128,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":128,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Enjoying the fruit of one’s labor means gaining benefit from whatever work one does."},{"start_chapter":128,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":128,"end_verse":6,"contents":"God will continually bless all who fear him (133:3) from his dwelling in Zion (20:2; 50:2; 110:2), no matter where they live. • grandchildren: God’s blessings extend from generation to generation for the faithful (79:12-13; 89:1; 100:4-5; 103:17-19)."},{"start_chapter":129,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":129,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist briefly reviews Israel’s history of trouble (129:1-2) and redemption (129:3-4). He concludes with curses against the enemies and blessings on the godly (129:5-6)."},{"start_chapter":129,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":129,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Israel’s earliest youth as a nation was during its sojourn in Egypt."},{"start_chapter":129,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":129,"end_verse":4,"contents":"the Lord is good: He rescued Israel from Egypt, from many enemy attacks, and from the Babylonian exile."},{"start_chapter":129,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":129,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Grass on a rooftop had shallow roots and would scorch easily. A crop was ignored by the harvester when the yield was low. The enemies who had sown hurt among God’s people would gain little."},{"start_chapter":130,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":130,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Beginning with himself as a representative of the community, the psalmist cries for God’s mercy (130:1-3) out of deep distress. He places his hope in the Lord (130:4-6), knowing that the Lord will rescue when and as he chooses. Based on this confidence, the psalmist invites Israel to wait for the Lord (130:7-8)."},{"start_chapter":130,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":130,"end_verse":3,"contents":"A cry from the depths is from a place of deep distress (cp. 69:2, 14; Isa 51:10; Ezek 27:34). Out of the frailty of his being, the psalmist prays for divine favor."},{"start_chapter":130,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":130,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The good news comes in God’s readiness to forgive sinners. His grace encourages people to fear him and hope in him."},{"start_chapter":130,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":130,"end_verse":8,"contents":"Israel is invited to hope in the Lord (9:18; 27:14; 131:3) because the Lord pays the costly price for redemption and covers whatever sin separates humans from him (see also 111:9; Exod 6:6-8; 2 Sam 7:23-24; Isa 43:1-4; Titus 2:14; Heb 9:12; 1 Pet 1:18)."},{"start_chapter":131,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":131,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Out of his contentment in the Lord, the psalmist invites Israel to seek their rest in God (131:3)."},{"start_chapter":132,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":132,"end_verse":18,"contents":"This psalm celebrates the Lord’s faithfulness to David. When David wanted to bring the Ark into Jerusalem (132:1-5), the Lord granted the request and made Jerusalem his earthly home (132:6-10). The choice of Jerusalem marked God’s election of David’s line (132:11-13), of Zion (132:14-17), and of the priesthood (132:9, 16)."},{"start_chapter":132,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":132,"end_verse":10,"contents":"These verses form a recollection of David’s moving the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem (2 Sam 6:1-15) and of the Lord’s oath to David (2 Sam 7:4-16)."},{"start_chapter":132,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":132,"end_verse":10,"contents":"These verses are a quotation from Solomon’s prayer at the dedication of the Temple (2 Chr 6:41-42)."},{"start_chapter":132,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":132,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The Lord swore an oath to David (2 Sam 7:4-16): God’s promise is unconditional, but the covenant is not (If . . . then). Those who break God’s covenant can expect the discipline of God’s judgment (see Ps 89:30-37)."},{"start_chapter":132,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":132,"end_verse":17,"contents":"The psalmist recounts the selection of Jerusalem and of the priests."},{"start_chapter":133,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":133,"end_verse":3,"contents":"In this wisdom psalm (see Ps 1), peaceful and harmonious relationships manifest the presence of God."},{"start_chapter":133,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":133,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist tells of the joy of consecrated relationships."},{"start_chapter":134,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":134,"end_verse":3,"contents":"In the last of the pilgrims’ songs (Pss 120–134), the travelers call the Temple workers to praise the Lord. In return, they will receive a much-anticipated blessing."},{"start_chapter":134,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":134,"end_verse":2,"contents":"Those who serve at night were the priests and Levites (see also 135:2)."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":21,"contents":"God, the Creator and the Lord of history, “made heaven and earth” (134:3). He deserves praise because, unlike idols, he redeems his people."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The Lord was sovereign over the Exodus and the conquest of the Promised Land."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":11,"contents":"In the tenth and culminating plague against Egypt, God destroyed the firstborn of each family. • The miraculous signs and wonders are the ten plagues (see Exod 7–11; Deut 4:34; Neh 9:10)."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":18,"contents":"The Lord’s name and character stand in contrast to idols."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":20,"contents":"This entire section is repeated in 115:4-11."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":18,"contents":"Idols corrupt the thinking because they are merely things made by humans; they cannot speak, see, hear, or breathe (Isa 41:22-24; 44:9, 18; Rom 1:21-23)."},{"start_chapter":135,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":135,"end_verse":21,"contents":"The groups named here comprised the covenant community (see 115:9-11)."},{"start_chapter":136,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":136,"end_verse":26,"contents":"This is the last of the Great Hallel psalms (Pss 120–136). It distinctively repeats the refrain His faithful love endures forever in every verse. The hymn is framed by a call to praise (136:1-3, 26). It proclaims the Lord as the Creator of all and the Redeemer of Israel, both in the distant (136:10-22) and in the recent past (136:23-24)."},{"start_chapter":136,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":136,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist invites the community to praise the Lord, who is good and full of love, the true Lord of humanity. Verse 1 alludes to the poetic expression in 2 Chr 5:13."},{"start_chapter":136,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":136,"end_verse":22,"contents":"The psalmist recounts the early history of Israel’s redemption."},{"start_chapter":136,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":136,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist relates the recent history of Israel’s redemption, although the circumstances are not specified."},{"start_chapter":137,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":137,"end_verse":9,"contents":"In response to the pain of exile (137:1-4), the psalmist resolves to remember Jerusalem even though the memories cause him pain (137:4-6). He also writes an astounding imprecation, or prayer for vengeance (137:7-9)."},{"start_chapter":137,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":137,"end_verse":4,"contents":"Because the music of Jerusalem was tied to the joys of life in the Promised Land, the Exile removed any occasion for singing joyous songs. The Babylonians wanted the Judeans to sing and dance for them, but the exiles’ grief made doing so either distasteful or impossible. The songs celebrating the Lord speak of his power and goodness, but his people were filled with doubts and questions. They hung their harps in trees, perhaps signifying the death of their joy under God’s curse (Deut 21:23)."},{"start_chapter":137,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":137,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist pledges his loyalty to Jerusalem, the city at the center of God’s reign and the location of fellowship with him."},{"start_chapter":137,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":137,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The poet witnessed the betrayal of God’s people from Judah by the Edomites, so he curses Edom. The long rivalry between Edom and Judah came to a head during Judah’s last days, when the Edomites handed the Judeans over to the Babylonians (Obad 1:10-11) and rejoiced in Jerusalem’s fall. • This prayer for vengeance is shocking."},{"start_chapter":138,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":21,"contents":"In this final collection of psalms of David, praise and wisdom psalms (Pss 138–139, 145) form a frame around five poems of lament (Pss 140–144)."},{"start_chapter":138,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":138,"end_verse":8,"contents":"In this wisdom psalm, the Lord is presented as the God of gods. He rescued his people and has a perfect plan for them as individuals. The nations will join Israel in glorifying God."},{"start_chapter":138,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":138,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The Lord receives praise before the gods of the nations."},{"start_chapter":138,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":138,"end_verse":5,"contents":"As the Lord’s glory fills the earth, the world’s population must willingly submit to him. Every king (cp. Ps 2) will join the community of praise as they hear the Lord’s ways of truth and love."},{"start_chapter":138,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":138,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The exalted God takes care of the humble (138:6), especially his servant the psalmist (138:7-8)."},{"start_chapter":139,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":139,"end_verse":24,"contents":"In this wisdom psalm, the psalmist opens every aspect of his being, character, behavior, and speech to God’s examination. As hard as life is, he wants to ensure his own growth in wisdom so that he does not come under God’s judgment of the wicked (141:5; 142:3; 143:8, 10; 144:3-4). Further, the poet recognizes that he cannot escape from the Lord. His sense of stress disappears when he considers the Lord’s loving care for him, even before birth (139:13-18). He then invites the Lord to continue examining him as he walks in the path of wisdom (139:23-24)."},{"start_chapter":139,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":139,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Lord knows the psalmist well; God has examined him thoroughly, in an inescapable examination that is painful at times (Job 7:17-19)."},{"start_chapter":139,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":139,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Lord’s omniscience and omnipotence provide comfort to the godly, but they imprison the hearts of the wicked (2:3)."},{"start_chapter":139,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":139,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist expresses his awe at the Lord’s omnipresence."},{"start_chapter":139,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":139,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist’s sense of awe leads him to consider the wicked and to reflect on himself. The Lord, as the examiner of all people, judges the wicked for their destructive acts and speech; thus, the psalmist prays that he will not be among them."},{"start_chapter":139,"start_verse":23,"end_chapter":139,"end_verse":24,"contents":"The psalmist’s prayer against the wicked leads him also to reflect on himself; he does not presume that he is righteous. This prayer has been repeated by believers over the centuries."},{"start_chapter":140,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":140,"end_verse":13,"contents":"In this individual lament, the psalmist artistically sketches God’s enemies with all their evil intents. He prays for the Lord’s protection and rescue with confidence in God’s strength and justice. He foresees the evil as being judged by fire (140:9-11) and himself as being vindicated and dwelling in the Lord’s presence (140:13)."},{"start_chapter":140,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":140,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist prays for the Lord to rescue him from wicked people."},{"start_chapter":140,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":140,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist asks for divine protection (see Ps 121), praying that the Lord will keep him safe from the many schemes of the wicked."},{"start_chapter":140,"start_verse":9,"end_chapter":140,"end_verse":11,"contents":"The psalmist prays for God’s judgment on the wicked."},{"start_chapter":141,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":141,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The psalmist prays for rescue and wisdom, and he envisions the end of evil. The principle of retribution (141:10) unifies the psalm."},{"start_chapter":141,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":141,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist prays urgently for rescue. He does not have at hand either incense or an evening offering (Exod 29:38-39), but his prayers and devotion are the reality that those elements represent (cp. Isa 1:13; Rev 5:8). • Upraised hands are a posture of prayer (Pss 28:2; 88:9; 143:6; Exod 9:29; 1 Tim 2:8)."},{"start_chapter":141,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":141,"end_verse":5,"contents":"Wisdom sometimes requires protection from oneself. One could say or think things that lead to the evil path (Prov 13:3; 21:23). • Wisdom opens itself to correction from godly people (see Prov 3:11; 9:8; 15:31; 19:25)."},{"start_chapter":142,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":142,"end_verse":7,"contents":"regarding his experience in the cave: Cp. Ps 57:title."},{"start_chapter":142,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":142,"end_verse":3,"contents":"Though overwhelmed by his persecutors (142:6), the psalmist looks to the Lord for wisdom."},{"start_chapter":142,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":142,"end_verse":4,"contents":"The psalmist reaches a point of despair (see 77:3), and the Lord cares for him in his distress. The psalmist commits himself to the Lord’s wisdom (see Ps 139) but laments his entrapment by the wicked (5:9-10; 140:5; 141:9; 142:3)."},{"start_chapter":142,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":142,"end_verse":7,"contents":"Though overwhelmed by loneliness and trouble, the psalmist focuses on the Lord’s goodness and protection. He knows that the Lord alone is his Redeemer, so he offers his praise."},{"start_chapter":143,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":143,"end_verse":12,"contents":"In this lament, the psalmist feels overwhelmed by constant harassment from his foes, so he turns to the Lord’s love, righteousness, and faithfulness. He remembers God’s acts in the past and yearns for the renewal of the Lord’s love. He opens himself to God’s wisdom because he knows that instruction will lead to life."},{"start_chapter":143,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":143,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist prays for God’s love and mercy."},{"start_chapter":143,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":143,"end_verse":4,"contents":"I am losing all hope: The psalmist confesses his desperation as his life slips away under oppressive and ruthless foes."},{"start_chapter":143,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":143,"end_verse":6,"contents":"Remembering God’s acts from the past reassures the psalmist of God’s faithfulness (42:4; 63:6; 77:3, 6; 119:55)."},{"start_chapter":143,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":143,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The psalmist petitions the Lord for a renewal of his love."},{"start_chapter":143,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":143,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The psalmist prays for wisdom (see 5:8; 25:4-6; 138; 143:10). • your gracious Spirit: The Spirit brings God’s goodness (see 23:6)."},{"start_chapter":144,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":144,"end_verse":15,"contents":"This lament begins with an exclamation of love for the Lord. The community then reflects on the transitory nature of life (144:3-4). The psalmist prays for divine intervention and anticipates victory (144:5-11). A new song (144:9-10) and a prayer for rescue (144:11) open up the theme of the Lord’s blessing through his provisions and protection (144:12-15)."},{"start_chapter":144,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":144,"end_verse":2,"contents":"The psalmist’s descriptive names for the Lord reveal his deep love for him."},{"start_chapter":144,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":144,"end_verse":4,"contents":"what are human beings? The same question in 8:4-6 elicits the answer that humans are mere mortals but are also glorious rulers. The psalmist depicts humans as having a transitory, empty existence (see 90:3, 7-10; 102:11; 109:23; 146:4)."},{"start_chapter":144,"start_verse":5,"end_chapter":144,"end_verse":8,"contents":"The psalmist prays for God’s intervention against his enemies (cp. 18:7-19)."},{"start_chapter":144,"start_verse":12,"end_chapter":144,"end_verse":15,"contents":"This prayer for the Lord’s blessing brings the laments of Pss 140–144 to a close. It offers a vision of God’s provision and protection (see Ps 127), not only for the psalmist, but for his descendants and those of all the godly."},{"start_chapter":144,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":144,"end_verse":14,"contents":"no enemy . . . no cries of alarm: These images depict peace and security."},{"start_chapter":145,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":21,"contents":"This hymn of praise is the last in this collection of the psalms of David (Pss 138–145). Praise continues in the last five psalms (Pss 146–150). This psalm celebrates the Lord as King of all (145:1-3, 10-13). God’s actions reveal his royal qualities (145:4-7). He cares for all creatures (145:14-17) and for those who fear him (145:18-20)."},{"start_chapter":145,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":3,"contents":"The psalmist praises God, the Great King who reigns over all other rulers (see 47:2)."},{"start_chapter":145,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":7,"contents":"This litany praises God’s character and mighty deeds. Each generation will continue to testify to God’s power (22:30)."},{"start_chapter":145,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":9,"contents":"God consistently demonstrates his character toward all his creation (see 136:25)."},{"start_chapter":145,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":13,"contents":"These verses form a description of the Lord’s kingdom."},{"start_chapter":145,"start_verse":14,"end_chapter":145,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The Lord cares for his creatures."},{"start_chapter":146,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":150,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The Psalter ends with five hallelujah psalms, so named because each begins and ends with Praise the Lord! (Hebrew haleluyah)."},{"start_chapter":146,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":146,"end_verse":10,"contents":"The call to praise (146:1-2) leads into a warning against folly and false confidence (146:3-4). The psalm concludes with a blessing for all who place their hope in the Lord (146:5-7)."},{"start_chapter":146,"start_verse":8,"end_chapter":146,"end_verse":9,"contents":"The fourfold repetition of the name of the Lord emphasizes that only he heals, unburdens, loves, and protects."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":20,"contents":"The psalmist calls for the Lord to be praised for restoring and blessing Zion, caring for the poor, displaying his power over nature, and revealing himself to his people."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":2,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":6,"contents":"The psalmist recalls the restoration of Jerusalem and the Lord’s afflicted exiles."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":4,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The Lord created the heavens. • He counts the stars: God’s people can feel secure in knowing that the Lord attends to every detail of his creation; he knows all that belongs to him."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":7,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":11,"contents":"Human achievements fail to impress the God who commands nature; rather, he takes pleasure in those who fear him."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":10,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":11,"contents":"human might: Any physical or intellectual achievement is a gift from the Lord, just like the strength of a horse. These gifts are a reason to praise the Lord, not to boast (Jer 9:23-24)."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":15,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":18,"contents":"Simply by speaking his command, the Lord can change the season from unbearable winter to refreshing spring (see 147:8; 148:5-6)."},{"start_chapter":147,"start_verse":19,"end_chapter":147,"end_verse":20,"contents":"words . . . decrees . . . regulations: The Lord gave powerful words to Israel so that they might obey him (105:45)."},{"start_chapter":148,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":148,"end_verse":14,"contents":"This psalm calls for the whole created order to praise the Lord because he has honored his faithful people."},{"start_chapter":148,"start_verse":11,"end_chapter":148,"end_verse":12,"contents":"The psalmist calls all humans to offer praise to God, regardless of status, age, or gender."},{"start_chapter":148,"start_verse":13,"end_chapter":148,"end_verse":14,"contents":"Universal praise of the Lord is fitting because he is glorious, and he has blessed his people (see 147:13; Isa 46:13; Eph 3:10). • His faithful ones are his trusting and devoted servants (Ps 86:2)."},{"start_chapter":149,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":149,"end_verse":9,"contents":"This hymn of praise celebrates the Lord’s victory. He is the Maker of Israel (149:1-2) and the victorious King who shares his glory with his faithful ones (149:3-9)."},{"start_chapter":149,"start_verse":6,"end_chapter":149,"end_verse":9,"contents":"Vengeance is the Lord’s business (see 2:3; 94:1; 102:20; 142:7; 146:7)."},{"start_chapter":150,"start_verse":1,"end_chapter":150,"end_verse":6,"contents":"Everything that breathes is commanded to praise the Lord as he deserves. The whole Psalter describes the greatness of the Lord, so this psalm is a fitting conclusion."},{"start_chapter":150,"start_verse":3,"end_chapter":150,"end_verse":5,"contents":"The psalmist calls all people to praise God with instruments and dancing. flutes: These wind instruments are not mentioned as being used in Temple worship. • clanging cymbals: Temple musicians clapped two bronze bowls together as percussion instruments."}]}