Psalm 136: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 136 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist opens with an invitation to give thanks to Yahweh for His goodness, noting that His loving kindness endures forever (vv. 1-3). He praises God for His creation, stating that He does great wonders.

Key verse

“Give thanks to Yahweh, for he is good; for his loving kindness endures forever.”
Psalms 136:1 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 136:1–3 Opening Call to Thanksgiving
Psalm 136:4–9 God's Creation and Wonders
Psalm 136:10–15 Deliverance from Egypt
Psalm 136:16–22 Guidance and Conquest
Psalm 136:23–26 God's Compassion and Provision

Discussion questions

In v1, what do we learn about Yahweh's character from the phrase 'for his loving kindness endures forever'?
What act is described in v13 that shows God's power during the Exodus?
In vv. 10-12, how do the actions of God towards Egypt contrast with His care for Israel?
In v21, why is it significant that God gave the land as an inheritance to Israel?
When have you experienced God's provision in a time of need, as mentioned in v25?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 136: Genesis 1, 1 Chronicles 16, Psalm 104.

Before next time: read Psalm 137.