Psalm 41: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 41 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist begins by saying that those who help the poor are blessed. Yahweh will protect and deliver them during hard times. He will keep them alive and safe from their enemies (vv.

Key verse

“Blessed is he who considers the poor. Yahweh will deliver him in the day of evil.”
Psalms 41:1 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 41:1–3 Blessings for Helping the Poor
Psalm 41:4–6 A Plea for Healing and Mercy
Psalm 41:7–9 Betrayal by Friends and Foes
Psalm 41:10–12 Trust in Yahweh's Mercy
Psalm 41:13 Doxology and Praise

Discussion questions

In v1, what is promised to the person who 'considers the poor'?
In vv. 9-10, why does David refer to his friend who 'ate bread' with him?
David's plea for mercy in v4: how does his sin relate to his suffering?
In v8, what leads others to believe that David has an 'evil disease'?
When have you sought 'mercy' from God in a time of personal suffering?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 41: Acts 1, Isaiah 41, John 13.

Before next time: read Psalm 42.