Psalm 84: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 84 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist describes how lovely are the dwellings of Yahweh of Armies (v. 1). He longs for the courts of Yahweh, and his heart and flesh cry out for the living God (v. 2). The psalmist notes that even sparrows find a home near Yahweh's altars (v. 3). Those who dwell in Yahweh's house are blessed and always praising Him (v. 4).

Key verse

“For a day in your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God, than to dwell in the tents of wickedness.”
Psalms 84:10 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 84:1–4 Longing for God's House
Psalm 84:5–7 Strength in Pilgrimage
Psalm 84:8–9 Prayer for God's Attention
Psalm 84:10–12 Value of God's Presence

Discussion questions

In v3, what do the sparrow and swallow symbolize about God's house?
What does the phrase 'valley of Weeping' in v6 suggest about the journey of faith?
In v10, why does the psalmist prefer being a doorkeeper over 'the tents of wickedness'?
In v11, what does it mean that Yahweh is described as a 'sun and a shield'?
When have you experienced God's protection as a 'shield' during a difficult time?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 84: Matthew 6, Psalm 27, Philippians 4.

Before next time: read Psalm 85.