Psalm 67: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 67 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist prays for God's mercy, blessing, and for His face to shine upon the people (v. 1). This blessing serves a purpose: to make God's way known on earth and His salvation among all nations (v. 2). The psalmist calls for all peoples to praise God and repeats this call, emphasizing the desire for universal praise (vv. 3-5). The earth has yielded its increase, and God will bless His people (v. 6). Ultimately, all the ends of the earth shall fear Him (v. 7).

Key verse

“let the peoples praise you, God. Let all the peoples praise you.”
Psalms 67:3 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 67:1 A Prayer for Blessing
Psalm 67:2 Purpose of God’s Blessing
Psalm 67:3–4 Call for Universal Praise
Psalm 67:5 Repetition of Praise
Psalm 67:6 God’s Continued Blessing
Psalm 67:7 Global Reverence for God

Discussion questions

In v1, what does the psalmist ask God to do with 'his face'?
In v3, what is repeated concerning the peoples in relation to God?
The phrase 'judge the peoples with equity' in v4: how does this relate to God's governance?
In v6, what does the psalmist mean by 'the earth has yielded its increase' in the context of blessing?
When has God's blessing in your life prompted you to share joy with others, as in v3?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 67: Numbers 6, Psalm 4, Psalm 98.

Before next time: read Psalm 68.