Psalm 44: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 44 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist recounts how their ancestors spoke of God's past deliverance (vv. 1-3). God drove out nations and gave the land to Israel, who did not win it by their own strength. The psalmist acknowledges that God is their King and asks Him to command victories for Jacob (vv. 4-8). They believe that God has saved them from enemies, and they boast in Him.

Key verse

“You are my King, God. Command victories for Jacob!”
Psalms 44:4 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 44:1–3 Recollection of God's Past Deliverance
Psalm 44:4–8 Affirmation of Dependence on God
Psalm 44:9–15 Present Suffering and Shame
Psalm 44:16–22 Faithfulness Amidst Affliction
Psalm 44:23–26 A Plea for Divine Intervention

Discussion questions

In v6, why does the psalmist say, 'I will not trust in my bow'?
What does the psalmist mean in vv. 9-10 when he says God has 'rejected' and brought them to 'dishonor'?
In v17, what does the psalmist mean by stating they have not 'forgotten' God while experiencing suffering?
In v22, why does the psalmist describe their situation as being 'killed all day long'?
When have you felt like a 'byword among the nations' (v14) due to circumstances beyond your control?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 44: Joshua 23, Romans 8, Zechariah 4.

Before next time: read Psalm 45.