Psalm 143: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 143 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist starts with a cry for divine attention, asking Yahweh to hear his prayer and relieve him (vv. 1-2). He describes despair amidst pursuit, saying that his enemy chases him and brings him low, leaving him overwhelmed (vv. 3-4).

Key verse

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness.”
Psalms 143:10 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 143:1–2 A Cry for Divine Attention
Psalm 143:3–4 Despair Amidst Pursuit
Psalm 143:5–6 Remembrance and Longing
Psalm 143:7–8 Urgent Pleas for Guidance
Psalm 143:9–11 Request for Deliverance and Teaching
Psalm 143:12 Dependence and Faithfulness

Discussion questions

In v1, what does the psalmist ask Yahweh to do regarding his petitions?
What does the psalmist mean by 'dark places' in v3?
The phrase 'cause me to hear your loving kindness' in v8: how does this connect to the psalmist's emotional state?
In v10, what does the psalmist imply by asking to be taught 'to do your will'?
When have you felt overwhelmed like the psalmist in v4, and how did you seek help?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 143: Psalm 25, Psalm 119, Isaiah 30.

Before next time: read Psalm 144.