Psalm 38: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 38 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist opens with a plea for mercy, asking Yahweh not to rebuke him in wrath or chasten him in displeasure (vv. 1-2). He acknowledges his sin, stating that his iniquities weigh heavily on him and have caused physical suffering (vv. 3-5). The psalmist expresses intense suffering, feeling pained and mournful all day long (vv. 6-8). He experiences isolation and despair, as friends and family distance themselves, and he feels surrounded by enemies (vv. 9-11). In silent endurance, he chooses not to respond to those who seek to harm him (vv. 12-14). Despite his anguish, he places his hope in Yahweh, believing that God will answer him (vv. 15-18). The psalmist concludes with a final appeal for help, seeking Yahweh's presence in his time of need (vv. 19-22).

Key verse

“For I am ready to fall. My pain is continually before me.”
Psalms 38:17 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 38:1–2 A Plea for Mercy
Psalm 38:3–5 Acknowledgment of Sin
Psalm 38:6–8 Intense Suffering
Psalm 38:9–11 Isolation and Despair
Psalm 38:12–14 Silent Endurance
Psalm 38:15–18 Hope in God
Psalm 38:19–22 Final Appeal for Help

Discussion questions

In v2, what does the psalmist say about God's 'arrows' and 'hand'?
In v11, why do the psalmist's friends 'stand aloof' from him?
The phrase 'my iniquities have gone over my head' in v4: what might this suggest about the psalmist's feelings of guilt?
In v16, why is the psalmist concerned about his enemies gloating over him?
When have you felt the weight of your own sin as described in v4?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 38: Psalm 35, Psalm 6, Psalm 32.

Before next time: read Psalm 39.