Explaining The Book

Category: Psalms

Psalms is a collection of prayers, laments, and praises exalting God’s character, works, and covenant faithfulness. Many psalms prophetically anticipate Christ as the ultimate King, Redeemer, and Shepherd. They encourage believers to trust in God, worship Him in every circumstance, and find hope in the promises fulfilled in Christ’s reign.

  • Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs: What Did Paul Mean?

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    In urging the Colossians and Ephesians to sing “psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs,” Paul references categories already present in the Psalter, suggesting these terms should not designate distinct types of music. Instead, he calls the church to draw from the inspired songs of Scripture, emphasizing Spirit-led worship grounded in God’s Word.

    Psalms, Hymns, and Spiritual Songs: What Did Paul Mean?
  • Psalm 124 Explained

    Psalm 124 expresses communal gratitude for God’s deliverance, emphasizing that Israel’s survival depends solely on the Lord. The psalm contrasts potential destruction with actual rescue, showcasing vivid imagery and repetition. It ultimately directs believers to Christ, who provides ultimate salvation from sin and death, affirming that God is their true help.

    Psalm 124 Explained
  • Psalm 123 Explained

    Psalm 123 is a brief yet profound “Song of Ascents” expressing the dependence of God’s people on His mercy amid scorn. It employs vivid imagery, repetition, and parallelism to illustrate worship as an act of humility. Fulfilled in Christ, it emphasizes faith and reliance on God’s sovereignty, encouraging believers to maintain their focus on Him.

    Psalm 123 Explained
  • Psalm 122 Explained

    Psalm 122 is a joyful “Song of Ascents” expressing worship, peace, and unity in Jerusalem, depicted as God’s dwelling place. Its structure moves from personal delight to communal prayer, highlighting worship’s joyous nature and the importance of justice. Ultimately, it points to Christ as the fulfillment of true worship, peace, and the New Jerusalem.

    Psalm 122 Explained
  • Psalm 121 Meaning

    Psalm 121 expresses profound confidence in God’s protection, emphasizing His role as a guardian for Israel. It begins with a question about help and concludes with the assurance that the Lord will keep His people forever. This psalm finds fulfillment in Christ, who offers eternal safety and watchfulness for believers through His unwavering care.

    Psalm 121 Meaning
  • Psalm 120 Meaning

    Psalm 120, the opening of the Songs of Ascents, portrays a pilgrim lamenting a world of deceit and hostility while longing for divine peace. This psalm reflects the believer’s journey and finds fulfillment in Christ, who delivers from lies, judges falsehood, and brings lasting peace amidst turmoil, reconciling believers to God.

    Psalm 120 Meaning
  • Psalm 119:169–176 Commentary

    Psalm 119 concludes with a cry for understanding and deliverance, emphasizing dependence on God’s grace. In Christ, who fulfills these petitions, believers find wisdom and salvation. The psalmist’s expression of longing and humility culminates in recognition of God as the Shepherd, illustrating divine pursuit rather than human achievement. Grace is abundantly supplied in Jesus.

    Psalm 119:169–176 Commentary