Psalm 9: Group Study Handout

How to use: read Psalm 9 aloud together, then take the questions in order. One page is enough for an evening.

Overview

The psalmist gives thanks to Yahweh with a whole heart, declaring his marvelous works (vv. 1-2). He rejoices as enemies stumble in God’s presence, who judges righteously and has maintained the psalmist's cause (vv.

Key verse

“Yahweh will also be a high tower for the oppressed; a high tower in times of trouble.”
Psalms 9:9 (WEB)

Outline

Psalm 9:1–2 Wholehearted Praise
Psalm 9:3–6 Justice Against Enemies
Psalm 9:7–10 God's Eternal Reign
Psalm 9:11–14 Proclamation of Deliverance
Psalm 9:15–18 Judgment of the Wicked
Psalm 9:19–20 Prayer for Divine Intervention

Discussion questions

In v10, what does it mean that those who know your name will 'put their trust' in you?
What does the phrase 'the gates of the daughter of Zion' in v14 signify in this context?
In v16, what does it imply that 'the wicked is snared by the work of his own hands'?
In v18, why does the psalmist state that 'the hope of the poor' will not perish forever?
When have you felt like you were 'oppressed' and sought refuge in God as described in v9?

Go deeper

Passages that echo Psalm 9: Psalm 46, Isaiah 26, Psalm 33.

Before next time: read Psalm 10.