Psalm 112: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 112 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist declares blessings for those who fear Yahweh and delight in His commandments (vv. 1-2). Their offspring will be mighty in the land, and the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are found in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever (vv. 3-4). Those who deal graciously and lend will be well off and maintain their cause in judgment (vv. 5-6). The righteous will not be shaken and will be remembered forever, displaying steadfastness in their hearts (vv. 7-8). When they see their adversaries, they will not be afraid. The generous person gives to the poor, and their righteousness endures forever. Their honor will be exalted (vv. 9-10). In contrast, the wicked will see these blessings, grieve, and feel their desires perish.

Key verse

“Praise Yah! Blessed is the man who fears Yahweh, who delights greatly in his commandments.”
Psalms 112:1 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 112:1–2 Blessings for Those Who Fear God
Psalm 112:3–4 Wealth and Righteousness
Psalm 112:5–6 Steadfastness of the Righteous
Psalm 112:7–8 Trust Amidst Adversity
Psalm 112:9–10 Generosity and the Fate of the Wicked

Discussion questions

In v2, what does the psalmist mean by 'the generation of the upright will be blessed'?
What does it mean in v4 that 'light dawns in the darkness for the upright'?
In v5, why is it significant that the man who lends graciously 'will maintain his cause in judgment'?
What does the phrase 'his horn will be exalted with honor' in v9 suggest about the righteous?
When have you experienced 'light' in a dark situation as described in v4?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 112: Psalm 1, Psalm 37, Psalm 119.

Before next time: read Psalm 113.