Editor's Note: I will attempt to summarize some of the themes and statements presented in the Psalms. Clearly, I will miss a lot, so please feel free to weigh in and give your thoughts and observations.
Psalm 1
Contrast of the Blessed and the Wicked
The blessed are like a Tree planted by the water; the wicked, like chaff on the wind
The difference: whose instructions & influence are the following?
Psalm 2
A good word picture for the Almighty being "above and beyond" even the rulers, the most powerful people on earth. Even the kings answer to the King of Kings, and it's a happy person who trusts in him, takes refuge in him.
Psalm 3
A Psalm of David
If we're on God's side, we will win, even if the whole world is against us. There's peace and rest in knowing that he watches over and protects his own.
Psalm 4
For the Leader, with stringed instruments
God can be trusted, and those who trust in Him can rest, and be at peace.
Psalm 5
For the Leader, with wind instruments
The King of Israel acknowledges the LORD as his Sovereign. David waits on Him each morning.
There are terms and conditions for remaining in the presence of the King of Kings, and David asks for help to meet those.
Psalm 6
For the Leader, with stringed instruments, on the sh'minit
David is estranged from the LORD...
He's not concerned with defending or justifying himself; hHe has no list of demands or claims about his rights
He humbles himself and pleads with the LORD to restore things
Psalm 7
A shiggayon of David
David appeals to the LORD, the righteous judge. Ha asks that his life - and the lives of those who pursue him - be examined and rewarded according to their actions.
Psalm 8
For the Leader, on the hittite
David gives glory to God for his wonderful work in creation.
A few thoughts.
ReplyDeleteתּרה tôrâh
1. law, direction, instruction
a. instruction, direction
A wise brother once said something like remember Jesus The Messiah is the Word made flesh so when you read the words law, statutes, precepts, ordinances, etc. in Psalms you can substitute Jesus the Messiah. Try it and see a deeper more personal relationship there.
The translation to "law" is misleading in my opinion. It automatically brings to my mind a courtroom with a severe judge sitting on high gavel in hand. But is that the proper context?
The example we have from the beginning is a kind and gentle father who is lovingly teaching his children how to live safe and productive lives through training and discipline.
Undoubtedly the Heavenly Father has given all authority to the Son and he will sit on a great white throne and judge. Based on the deeds performed during their lives some will receive rewards and the rest will be condemned.
Psalm 1 & 2 should be read and understood together without division. Try pairing the first and last verse (Ps 1:1, Ps 2:12) then continue reading the pairings as you approach the center.
In Ps 2:12 The Hebrew seems clear on "kiss" the Son (to put together, kiss). I think it's a clear picture of marriage.
- Stacy