Psalm 18: Group Study Handout

Overview

David expresses love for Yahweh, calling him his strength, rock, fortress, and deliverer (vv. 1-2). He cries for help, describing how he is surrounded by death and distress, but he calls on Yahweh, who hears his voice (vv.

Key verse

“Yahweh is my rock, my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my high tower.”

Psalms 18:2 (WEB)

Outline

1. Psalm 18:1–3 David's Expression of Love for God
2. Psalm 18:4–6 Cry for Help in Distress
3. Psalm 18:7–15 God's Mighty Response to Distress
4. Psalm 18:16–19 Rescue and Deliverance
5. Psalm 18:20–24 Reward for Righteousness
6. Psalm 18:25–36 God's Character and Strength
7. Psalm 18:37–50 Victory Over Enemies and Praise

Discussion questions

1. In v2, what metaphors does David use to describe Yahweh?
2. What event triggers the dramatic imagery in vv. 7-15?
3. David's statement in v20 about being rewarded: how does this connect to his earlier cries for help?
4. In v22, what does David mean by not wickedly departing from God?
5. When have you called on God in distress like David does in v6?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 18: 2 Samuel 22, Psalm 119, Psalm 144.

Before next time: read Psalm 19.