11-3-2014 - Psalms 40-43

Psalm 40-43

The Psalms are the national songs of Israel.  Like music today, it deals with raw human experience and often can be both uplifting and sad at the same time.  Take a look through these four Psalms – read them over a few times – and see what you notice.  Write down the thoughts that strike you – what you learn, what challenges you, what questions you have, etc.  Here are some study questions to help spur on your exploration and to help us when we meet…

1          What emotions do you see in these songs? 

2.         What would you say is David’s issue in Psalm 40?

“It’s better to ask forgiveness than permission” – compare to 40:6-8

How does David deal with his enemies?

3.         In Psalm 41, why does David have a soft spot in his heart for someone who looks out for the weak and vulnerable?

v. 11 – I know that you are pleased with me…. What do you think about this statement?

4          Psalm 42 talks about thirsting in my soul.  What do souls thirst for other than God?

This Psalmist seems to be struggling with depression, hopelessness, and despair.  Anything we can learn about the dark times from what this song says?

5          In Psalm 43, it seems that the song writer is under attack.  What is his outlook on the situation?

            What is the status of the attack as he writes?  What is the common experience as we live through times like this?

            What can we learn from the way this song is written?

For Next Time (11/17)  - Political Correctness….

Our culture today is very careful to push everyone toward what is ‘acceptable’ by the current standards.  What directions are positive about this cultures agenda?  And what standards are damaging or dangerous to society?  Are there any current political concepts that come from a Biblical or Christian foundation?

10-17-2014 - Language

Language

1          Why do you think the world in general has expectations of Christians when it comes to the types of language they use?  What kinds of speech do they react to? 

2.         What types of language do you consider to be ‘out of bounds’ for a Christian?  How do you decide on what is acceptable and what is not?

Some Scripture to consider – what Biblical principles can you take from these passages?

Exodus 20:7, 16

Ephesians 4:29-31

Ephesians 5:3-4

James 3:1-12

Psalm 19:14

Luke 6:45

3.         Do you see any real or lasting impact that comes from the language we choose to use?

4          Are there influences that make it more difficult to stay ‘in bounds’ with our speech?  What would you recommend to someone trying to clean up their language?

5          How should a believer react to someone who uses language that is ‘out of bounds’ for the Christian?  Is there any difference whether this person is a believer or not?  Mature in their faith? 

For Next Time (11/3) – Let’s take a chance to share how each of us learn from and apply God’s Word to our lives.  Read Psalms 40, 41, 42, and 43, and come ready to share what you have learned from it or how you would apply what is written to your own life.