Free group study handout
Psalm 55: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Psalm 55 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
The psalmist opens with a plea for help, asking God to listen and not hide from his supplication (vv. 1-3). He expresses despair, longing for escape from the overwhelming fear and pain he feels, wishing he could fly away like a dove (vv.
Key verse
“Cast your burden on Yahweh, and he will sustain you. He will never allow the righteous to be moved.”
Psalms 55:22 (WEB)
Outline
- Psalm 55:1–3 Opening Plea for Help
- Psalm 55:4–8 Despair and Longing for Escape
- Psalm 55:9–11 Observations of Violence
- Psalm 55:12–14 Betrayal by a Close Friend
- Psalm 55:15–19 Desire for Divine Justice
- Psalm 55:20–22 Description of the Betrayer
- Psalm 55:23 Conclusion and Affirmation of Trust
Discussion questions
- In v2, what does David mean when he describes himself as 'restless' in his complaint?
- What emotions does David express in v4 when he mentions his 'heart' being pained?
- David’s wish in v6 to have 'wings like a dove': what does this suggest about his mental state?
- In v12-14, how does the betrayal of a close friend heighten David's sense of anguish?
- When have you felt overwhelmed and longed for peace, as David does in v8?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Psalm 55: 1 Peter 5, Philippians 4, Psalm 37.
Before next time: read Psalm 56.