Psalm 86: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 86 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist cries out to Yahweh for attention, declaring his poverty and neediness (vv. 1-2). He asks for mercy and joy, trusting in Yahweh’s goodness and readiness to forgive (vv. 3-5). In his prayer, he seeks God’s response, confident that God will answer him when he calls (vv. 6-7). The psalmist acknowledges God’s uniqueness, noting that no other gods can compare and that all nations will worship Him (vv. 8-10). He expresses a desire for guidance, asking Yahweh to teach him His ways and to make his heart undivided (vv. 11-13). The psalmist faces opposition from proud enemies who disregard God (vv. 14-15). He requests strength and mercy, pleading for God to save him and show a sign of His goodness (vv. 16-17).

Key verse

“For you, Lord, are good, and ready to forgive; abundant in loving kindness to all those who call on you.”
Psalms 86:5 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 86:1–2 Plea for God's Attention
Psalm 86:3–5 Request for Mercy and Joy
Psalm 86:6–7 Seeking God's Response
Psalm 86:8–10 God's Uniqueness and Greatness
Psalm 86:11–13 Desire for Guidance and Praise
Psalm 86:14–15 Opposition and God's Character
Psalm 86:16–17 Final Plea for Strength and Sign

Discussion questions

In v2, what does David ask God to do for his 'soul'?
What does David say about God's character in v5 that encourages him to call on Him?
In v10, why does David emphasize that God is 'God alone' when discussing God's deeds?
In v15, what implications arise from describing God as 'slow to anger' in the context of David's situation?
When have you called on God for help in a time of trouble, as David does in v7?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 86: Exodus 34, Psalm 25, Lamentations 3.

Before next time: read Psalm 87.