Psalm 89: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 89 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist sings of Yahweh's loving kindness and faithfulness, promising to declare it forever (vv. 1-2). He affirms God's power in creation and worship by the heavenly assembly (vv.

Key verse

“I will sing of the loving kindness of Yahweh forever. With my mouth, I will make known your faithfulness to all generations.”
Psalms 89:1 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 89:1–5 Praise for God's Faithfulness
Psalm 89:6–13 God's Sovereignty and Power
Psalm 89:14–18 The Basis of God's Throne
Psalm 89:19–29 God's Covenant with David
Psalm 89:30–37 Conditions and Assurance of the Covenant
Psalm 89:38–45 Lament over Rejection
Psalm 89:46–52 A Plea for Remembrance

Discussion questions

In v2, what is affirmed about God's love and faithfulness?
In v21, what action does God take regarding David?
The statement in vv. 30-32 about David's children: what does it imply about their future relationship with God's commands?
In v38, why does the psalmist express feelings of rejection regarding God's 'anointed'?
When have you felt like God's promises seemed distant, as seen in v49's plea for remembrance?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 89: 2 Samuel 7, Matthew 24, Isaiah 41.

Before next time: read Psalm 90.