Free group study handout
Psalm 103: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Psalm 103 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
The psalmist calls his soul to bless Yahweh, urging it to rejoice in His holy name (vv. 1-2). He lists God’s merciful actions.
Key verse
“He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor repaid us for our iniquities.”
Psalms 103:10 (WEB)
Outline
- Psalm 103:1–2 Call to Bless the Lord
- Psalm 103:3–5 God’s Merciful Actions
- Psalm 103:6–8 God’s Justice and Mercy
- Psalm 103:9–14 God’s Compassion for Humanity
- Psalm 103:15–18 Human Mortality and God’s Eternal Kindness
- Psalm 103:19–22 Universal Call to Praise
Discussion questions
- In v3, what does Yahweh do for those who seek forgiveness?
- What does Yahweh's 'loving kindness' in v17 suggest about His relationship with His followers?
- In v12, what is the meaning of removing transgressions 'as far as the east is from the west'?
- In vv. 8-9, why does David emphasize that Yahweh is 'slow to anger' and will not accuse forever?
- When have you felt like 'dust' in your life, as mentioned in v14?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Psalm 103: Isaiah 40, Exodus 15, Exodus 34.
Before next time: read Psalm 104.