Psalm 6: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 6 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist begins by pleading for mercy and healing from Yahweh, asking not to be rebuked in anger (vv. 1-2). He expresses his desperation, feeling faint and troubled, and questions how long he must endure this suffering (vv.

Key verse

“Return, Yahweh. Deliver my soul, and save me for your loving kindness’ sake.”
Psalms 6:4 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 6:1–2 Plea for Mercy and Healing
Psalm 6:3–5 Desperation in Distress
Psalm 6:6–7 Intense Sorrow and Grief
Psalm 6:8–9 Confidence in God's Response
Psalm 6:10 Assurance of Victory over Adversaries

Discussion questions

In v2, why does the psalmist ask for mercy from Yahweh?
In v6, what does the image of 'flood my bed' convey about the psalmist's feelings?
The phrase 'how long' in v3: what does it suggest about the psalmist's desperation?
In v5, what is implied by the concern that 'in death there is no memory of you'?
When has a time of deep distress made you seek divine help like in v9?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 6: Psalm 30, Ecclesiastes 9, Psalm 38.

Before next time: read Psalm 7.