Psalm 56: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 56 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

David pleads for mercy from God, feeling oppressed and attacked by many enemies who want to swallow him up (vv. 1-2). When fear arises, he resolves to put his trust in God, praising His word and declaring that he will not be afraid (vv.

Key verse

“When I am afraid, I will put my trust in you.”
Psalms 56:3 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 56:1–2 David's Plea for Mercy
Psalm 56:3–4 Trust in God Amid Fear
Psalm 56:5–6 Enemies Conspire Against David
Psalm 56:7–8 A Call for Justice
Psalm 56:9–11 Confidence in God's Support
Psalm 56:12–13 Thanksgiving for Deliverance

Discussion questions

In v1, what does David request from God amidst his distress?
What do David's enemies do all day long in v2 that troubles him?
In v5, why does David say that his enemies 'twist my words'?
In v8, what is the meaning of God counting David's 'wanderings'?
When have you felt 'afraid' as David expresses in v3, and what helped you trust?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 56: Romans 8, Hebrews 13, 1 Peter 5.

Before next time: read Psalm 57.