Free group study handout
Psalm 83: Group Study Handout
How to use: read Psalm 83 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.
Overview
The psalmist cries for God’s attention, asking Him not to be silent or still (vv. 1-2). The enemies of God are stirred up.
Key verse
“God, don’t keep silent. Don’t keep silent, and don’t be still, God.”
Psalms 83:1 (WEB)
Outline
- Psalm 83:1–2 A Cry for God's Attention
- Psalm 83:3–5 Enemies Conspire Against Israel
- Psalm 83:6–8 List of Adversarial Nations
- Psalm 83:9–12 Plea for Divine Retribution
- Psalm 83:13–15 Imagery of Destruction
- Psalm 83:16–18 Desire for Divine Recognition
Discussion questions
- In v6, which nations are listed as conspiring against Israel?
- What does the psalmist ask God to do in v9 regarding the enemies?
- The phrase 'like tumbleweed' in v13: what does this imagery suggest about the enemies' fate?
- In v15, why does the psalmist use the word 'tempest' to describe God's response?
- When have you experienced a time when you felt surrounded like Israel in v2?
Go deeper
Passages that echo Psalm 83: Psalm 46, Exodus 14, Isaiah 42.
Before next time: read Psalm 84.