Psalm 3: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 3 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

David laments the increase of his adversaries, expressing that many say there is no help for him in God (vv. 1-2). Despite this, he declares Yahweh as a shield around him, his glory, and the one who lifts up his head.

Key verse

“But you, Yahweh, are a shield around me, my glory, and the one who lifts up my head.”
Psalms 3:3 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 3:1–2 David's Lament Over Enemies
Psalm 3:3–4 Confidence in God's Protection
Psalm 3:5–6 Resting in Divine Sustenance
Psalm 3:7–8 Plea for Salvation and Assurance

Discussion questions

In v1, who are the 'adversaries' that have increased against David?
What does David call God in v3 that indicates his protection?
In v4, why does David mention God's 'holy hill' as the source of his answer?
In v7, what does David mean by God having 'struck all of my enemies on the cheek bone'?
When have you felt surrounded by people against you, as in v6?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 3: Psalm 27, Psalm 4, Psalm 23.

Before next time: read Psalm 4.