For further reflection:
1. Read Psalm 1:1-2: "Blessed is the person who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, Nor stand in the path of sinners, Nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the Law of the Lord, And on His Law he meditates day and night."
What characteristics define the person who is "blessed"?
2. Read Psalm 1:3-4: "He will be like a tree planted by streams of water, Which yields its fruit in its season, And its leaf does not wither; And in whatever he does, he prospers."
This verse describes the existence of someone who trusts in God. Interpreting the metaphor of the tree, how would you describe this person's reality?
3. Choose from one of the three situations and reflect on where you’ve been trusting in yourself rather than God. Ask God to help you trust him in this area.
-Something unknown in the future you’re anxious about
-A decision you’re having to make
-Something that’s causing pain or suffering in your life
Trusting God
Psalms: Episode 1
Psalm 1
Weakness
Psalm 8
For further reflection: 1. Read Psalm 8:2: "From the mouth of infants and nursing babes You have established strength." Why do you think God chooses to work through weak people to put his strength on display? 2. Read John 15:5: “I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” This verse tells us that abiding in Christ is what give us strength. What do you think it looks like practically to "abide" in Jesus? 3. Think about an area of weakness being exposed in your life right now. What are three ways in which you could praise God for his strength in this area?
God's Provision
Psalm 23
For further reflection: 1. Read Psalm 23:2: "He lets me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters." Then Read Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is comfortable, and My burden is light.” -Jesus What similar theme do you see in these two verses? Why do you think this theme characterizes the life of one who is following God? 2. Read Psalm 23:4: "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me." Why do you think the Psalmist switches from talking about God in third person to talking to God directly once he enters “the valley of the shadow of death” (representative of suffering)? 3. What is the first person, thing, or experience that comes to mind when you think about the following words. Ask that God would help you look to him over anything else in these areas. -Contentment -Rest -Satisfaction -Restoration -Direction -Protection