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The Story Behind the Psalms

by Dr. Jack Hyles

Electronic Printing by FFEP

PREFACE

There are three books in the Bible from which I read every day—the Psalms, the Proverbs and the book of Acts. I read the Psalms for love, the Proverbs for wisdom and the book of Acts for power. These three things—love, wisdom and power have for years been on the top of my prayer list.

One day while meditating on one of the Psalms, I found myself wondering where the author was when he wrote it, what the circumstances were surrounding its writing and what exactly prompted the author to compose such a masterpiece. I fled to the library of my memory and the refuge of my commentaries until my temporary search became long research. This venture was so enjoyable that I traveled the historical path of another Psalm, then another, then another, which soon led to a series of Bible studies at the First Baptist Church of Hammond on the conditions and circumstances surrounding the writing of each of the Psalms. It makes our study richer as we stand beside the author as he writes and as we feel his heartbeat, watch his tears, enjoy his laughter and join in his praise.

May the author beg scholastic mercy of the reader. The following words were not penned to be examined by the microscope of the scholar but rather to be enjoyed by the study of the saint.

With lovingkindness, a prayerful spirit and a desire to bless, let me lead you into the Psalms, the songbook of Israel, that we together may enjoy the stories behind the Psalms.

PSALM 1

AUTHOR: Solomon

There is no definite evidence to his authorship of this Psalm, but there are strong grounds for suspicioning such. Even the casual reader will note a strong similarity between the Proverbs and the first Psalm.

The Story Behind the Psalm

The father is talking to his son. Perhaps this father is Solomon. Perhaps the son is Rehoboam, who succeeded him on the throne. Solomon is teaching Rehoboam the way to blessedness and is warning him about the destruction of those who follow evil. In some ways it may be regarded as a preface to the rest of the Psalms. Perhaps it is a summary of what is to come later, for is it not true that all of the Psalms teach us the blessedness of living a holy and righteous life and the danger of living a life for self and sin.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews used the first Psalm as instruction to children in family worship. It was memorized by each child and quoted and sung over and over again. Wise parents teach this Psalm to their children unto this day. Fathers gather the family together and explain the beautiful recipe for success given in this Psalm, as follows: Walking not in the counsel of the ungodly, plus standing not in the way of sinners, plus sitting not in the seat of the scornful, plus delighting in the law of the Lord, plus meditating in the Word of God day and night equals success.

It is interesting to note that the word "blessed" in verse 1 is a plural word in the original. It means that there are a multiplicity of blessings which rest upon the person who observes the five conditions for prosperity and success. The Psalm should be read with a mental picture of a father talking with his son, counseling with him and advising him about life. Emphasis should be placed upon seeking counsel only from the saved, running with the right crowd, not developing a critical tongue, enjoying the Word of God and meditating therein. Then, a warning should be given concerning the instability and tragic results of sin.

PSALM 2

AUTHOR: David

This is beautifully verified in Acts 4:25 where David is specifically mentioned as the author of the second Psalm.

The Story Behind the Psalm

David's son, Absalom, rebelled against his father. He gathered an army and a following and led in an attempt to overthrow David and to make himself the king. Notice this implication in verse 2. When the civil war began, David refused to fight against his son. He fled the city to a place called Mahanaim and there watched the dust of battle rise, realizing that his own son had marshalled an army against the king. Notice his unwillingness to retaliate. He left revenge to the Lord, and the Lord adequately took care of this duty.

Victory did come to David, but it was accompanied by tragedy, for his son was killed in the battle. You will find the victory mentioned in verses 6, 8 and 9.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was used by the Jewish people when seeing the wicked prosper. They turned to it when good seemed to turn out bad and bad seemed to turn out good. Every Christian has faced such times. There are occasions when it seems that no matter how sincere one is or how hard he works for God, those who live unrighteous lives seem to be on the mountaintop while we are in the valley. When such feelings arise, what a comfort it is to have the second Psalm to which to flee. When you are living righteously in poverty, want, illness, etc., and your neighbor is living a sinful life midst plenty, pleasure and fortune, take refuge in the second Psalm. Right will turn out right, and right is its own reward. Victory will come if we will wait on the Lord and not take matters into our own hands.

Once a unsaved farmer came to the preacher and said, "Reverend, this year I plowed my field on Sunday, I planted seed on Sunday, I chopped weeds on Sunday, and I harvested my crop on Sunday, and this October 1 had the best crop I have ever had. What do you say to that, Reverend?"

The preacher quietly, confidently replied, "God does not always pay off in October."

While reading this Psalm, picture David with tear-stained cheeks and a broken heart enduring a rebellion led by his own son. With that mental image, read the Psalm.

PSALM 3

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This is a perpetuation of the events of Psalm 2. In the second Psalm, David has learned of the rebellion. In the third Psalm he is running from Absalom. He has left Jerusalem and the palace, and in perhaps the darkest hour of his life, he is fleeing to Mahanaim. This Psalm was probably written as he fled. As you read it, picture a brokenhearted father and a sad king who, after having stepped down from the throne, flees the battle rather than engage in warfare with his own son.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews would find pavilion in this Psalm when they were completely bewildered and confused. When the way ahead was foggy and they could not see clearly the path that God had for them, they would find great comfort in the words of David when he faced a similar fate.

A new word is introduced in this Psalm. The word is "selah." You will find it at the conclusion of verse 2, verse 4 and verse 8. It is a word that is used as a musical term, much like our musical term, "rest." How beautiful it is to know that when we are perplexed, when friends betray us and family disappoints us, there is still a rest in our God.

PSALM 4

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The events of Psalms 2 and 3 continue to progress. In Psalm 4 David is at Mahanaim. He has been forsaken by his son and many of his friends and subjects. A few of his followers are with him, such as faithful Ittai and a band of Philistine bodyguards. As the Psalm is read, the Christian should picture in his mind a saddened father sitting at Mahanaim looking back at Jerusalem and watching the dust of battle rise. One of the miracles of this Psalm is found in verses 7 and 8. It is marvelous how the Christian can have gladness, peace, sleep and assurance of safety in such an hour of trial.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was sung at night by the Jews. It was especially used by people who had a problem sleeping or going to sleep. Note verse 8. It was a tranquilizer in the dark hours of the night. So it can be for us when we face the darkness of battle or loneliness, or for that matter, even when we are unable to sleep in the nighttime.

Verse 4 should be examined carefully. The words, "Stand in awe, and sin not," could be translated, "When angry, sin not." No doubt David is reminding himself not to be angry at his son or at the other rebels. When anger does come, however, we are not to give vent to it. It is often said that it is just as bad to do it as to think it. This is not so. David is saying here, "When you think it, don't do it."

PSALM 5

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

It is agreed that these words were written during one of the dark hours of David's life. The darkest hours of his life were no doubt during two self-imposed exiles. One of these was his exile to Mahanaim during Absaloin's rebellion, and the other was his constant fleeing from Saul when Saul had become jealous and made a constant attempt to kill David. However, verse 7 reminds us that David was not in exile at the writing of this Psalm. We then find in verse 8 that he did have bitter enemies at this time. So the Psalm was probably written before Absalom's rebellion. Absalom was stirring the people against David and very coyly rallying them to himself. David could see the cloud rising and no doubt realized that a battle was inevitable. It was no doubt written in the morning time. Note verse 3, as David was seeking grace and strength to face a new day in the midst of tremendous burdens.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews used this Psalm in the early morning hours. They used it as a prayer for help (verses 7 and 8). When in adversity, they used it as a plea for joy (verses 11 and 12). When beset by enemies, they would plead for God to destroy their enemies (verses 9 and 10).

Notice also that there are three things the Jews would do in the morning time, as is found in verse 3. First, they would let God hear their voices. Maybe they would read the Psalm aloud; perhaps they would sing the Psalm. They they directed a prayer to God. In other words, they petitioned God for His help to supply their needs. Third, they would look up. Ah, here are three wonderful things to do in the morning hours. Let God hear us sing and praise; then let us present our petitions to Him and then look up. For many years now the first thing I do in the morning upon arising is to pull the curtain and look to the sky and tell Jesus I would love for Him to come today. The wise Christian spends time with God in the morning, and especially so when he faces a battle or heavy burdens.

PSALM 6

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David had committed his sin concerning Uriah and Bathsheba. At the writing of this Psalm, Bathsheba had given birth to a baby. The baby was near death. David was heartbroken and penitent. He is praying and asking forgiveness.

This is the first of the penitential Psalms. This, like Psalm 51 and some others, is a Psalm of seeking forgiveness and begging restoration. The Psalm was sung with stringed accompaniment and was serious music. Psalm 6 is no victory shout; it is the mourn and wail of a sinner seeking forgiveness as he pays the price for his sin.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews would use this Psalm when wanting forgiveness. It was used after a time of backsliding when a vow had been made to God to return to His will and His work. Notice the groanings of verse 3, the need for restoration found in verse 2 and the desire for forgiveness found in verse 4. Perhaps some reader has wandered from his God. Read this Psalm. Picture David pleading for restoration at the bedside of a dying son whose brief life was soon to be ended. Then call to God for forgiveness and restoration.

PSALM 7

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

Saul was the king of Israel. David had become a national hero after his slaying of Goliath. The ladies began to sing, "Saul hath slain his thousands and David his tens of thousands." This made Saul to see David as a threat for his throne. Hence, he vowed to kill him and spent many days pursuing David in an attempt to slay him. David fled from Saul, not because he was afraid to fight or felt he could not be victorious, but because David refused to lift up his hand against God's anointed, and because David realized that vengeance belonged to God and not to him. At the writing of this Psalm David was in a cave fleeing for his life. He was lonely, frightened and perhaps disillusioned. He was a young man. He had been used of God to save his nation. Honor should have come from the king, but in its place came jealousy. As the Psalm is read, the reader should picture David in the cave, a young man, discouraged and lonely.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

God's people would use this Psalm when they were in deep trouble. It often seems that God's people are in deep trouble most of the time. Peter reminds us that we are as gold refined by the fire. Sometimes it is difficult to ascertain the purpose of God when we have to stay in the fire so long and so often, but God has His way of purifying us, and this is by placing us in the refiner's fire.

One day while a refiner was looking at his gold in the

fire, a passerby asked him how long he kept the gold in the fire. He said, ''Until it is purified.''

The passerby then asked, "How do you know when the gold is purified?"

The refiner answered, "I know it is purified when I can see the reflection of my face in it."

This is why Jesus puts us through the fire. He wants the reflection of His face to be seen in us.

The Jews would also read and sing the seventh Psalm when they were tempted to seek revenge or to retaliate. Let it be remembered that revenge and vengeance is a work of God for us, not a work for us to do for ourselves.

PSALM 8

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This Psalm was written during the harvest time. It is obvious that David was looking up into the sky during the nighttime and feeling his insignificance and God's greatness. Notice verse 4. The word "man" in this verse comes from a Hebrew word which means "weak, insignificant man." David could not imagine how a God so mighty and so wonderful and so powerful could condescend to fellowship with sinful, weak, insignificant flesh.

Then notice in verse I the words, "Who hath set Thy glory above the heavens." In this verse God is likened unto an actor who comes to a platform to perform. That platform is the world, but the world is not big enough for His performance, so the platform is built in the heavens. Then the heavens are found too small for this performer, so a new platform is built above the heavens. Our God is so great that His platform cannot be contained by the heavens themselves. The marvelous thing about this is found in verse 2 when God says He is interested in the little baby and the suckling child. Here is a God so great that He must have a platform above the heavens, and yet, so tender and so personal He is concerned about the whimper and the cry of an infant.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

When a dedicated Jew was feeling proud of himself, he would run to the shelter of humility found in the eighth Psalm. When he felt superior, he would go in the field in the nighttime and quote or sing this Psalm.

Perhaps when we become proud we could find in the eighth Psalm a place of humbling as we view the greatness of our God and His handiwork and the weakness of human flesh. Then we can shout, "Hosanna!" because such perfection desires to visit and fellowship with such weakness.

PSALM 9

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

In the sixth Psalm we found David penitent and saddened because of the fatal illness of his infant son. Now in Psalm 9 that son has passed away and David is reflecting upon the abbreviated life of the little one and his sin that caused it. Ah, 'tis sad that such tragedy has to come in our lives to make us aware of the importance of our staying in the will of God.

Years ago when I was pastoring in Garland, Texas, a young man came down the aisle in response to the message during the invitation time. He said that God had called him to preach but he could not do it. He could not afford to do it because he had a good job and his wife was opposed to his entering the ministry. He simply could not preach, he said. It wasn't long until a beautiful baby left their home for Heaven. Could I ever forget the day when I stood beside a little casket at the Williams Funeral Home in Garland, Texas! Friends and family had passed by to view the body and then with trembling hands, a broken heart and moistened eyes came the young parents. The father reached down into the casket and lifted the little baby's body into his arms and shouted through tears, "I can preach now! I can preach now! I can preach now!"

The Way It Was Used by God's People

It is not difficult to discern the use of this Psalm by the people of God. It was used in times of bereavement at the loss of a loved one. Has someone very dear to you passed away? Then take refuge under the wings of Psalm 9.

PSALM 10

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The tenth Psalm is a continuation of the ninth Psalm. Some have suggested they should be combined into one, but that is not important. It does, however, deal with the same subject and was written perhaps at the same time under the same circumstances.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This also was a Psalm used in times of bereavement. Through the years when I have been bereaved, I have taken refuge in Psalms 9 and 10. On December 13, 1950, at 3:00 in the afternoon on Mother's Day, I stood at the casket of my father. My heart was broken for many reasons, when suddenly I felt a hand on my arm. It was holding me tightly. I thought perhaps some friend had grasped my arm in an effort to comfort me and give me strength. I turned to see who the friend was and could see no one. Then suddenly it dawned upon me that the Friend of friends had touched me with His hand. I could feel it not only in my heart, but I could feel it on my arm.

A mother had been taken from a home. After the funeral service the grief-stricken father and son returned for their first night at home without their wife and mother. During the night the little boy began to whimper. His dad asked him if he could help, whereupon the little boy replied through the darkness, "Daddy, is your face turned toward me?"

The father reached his big hand out and held the son's and said, "Yes, son, my face is turned toward

You." When we are bereaved we may look to our Heavenly Father and ask, "Father, is Your face turned toward me?" The answer is always in the affirmative. His face IS truly turned toward us, especially in hours of bereavement.

PSALM 11

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

For a time, David lived in the court of Saul. It was a time of testing, for David and his friends were in a definite minority. Anarchy and sin were so prevalent that David and his friends could not participate in much of the activity of the court. Because of this, they had to build their own little community within the court. They met periodically for fellowship and strength. They were hated by many, persecuted by others, and disliked by most. They were not understood, for they believed in living righteously. So in this sinful kingdom they built within the confines of the court a little righteous community where they could fellowship one with the other. We too live in a sinful age. Black has become so black and white has become so white that it has become almost impossible for the Christian to find any kind of secular organization or fellowship in which he may participate. Because of this, God has given us a little community called the New Testament church where we may have an empire within an empire, a kingdom within a kingdom, a city within a city, a community within a community. Here God's people meet. They fellowship, they sing, they give, they preach, they teach, they learn, and in a sense, build their lives around this community. The wise father will see to it that his family is built around the church. Our children should be able to choose their friends from church children. They should be able to fellowship within the church, date within the church and, yes, even marry within this amazing little community called the New Testament church.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was used by God's people when they were in a minority. Notice verse 3, "If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?" The answer is very simple—the righteous can flee to that institution, that only institution, whose foundation can never be destroyed, even our Saviour, the Rock of Ages.

PSALM 12

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The conditions surrounding the writing of this Psalm were the same as Psalm 11. David was living in the court of Saul. The people of Saul were wicked. Notice in verse 8 the words, "The wicked walk on every side." This was the case in the writing of the eleventh and twelfth Psalms.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

When God's people were in a minority, they used Psalms 11 and 12 for their strength. These would certainly be splendid ways to gain strength for someone who works in an office and is surrounded by unrighteous people. Maybe there is a young person in school who has to stand alone, or at best has few to stand with him, who could find a haven in this Psalm. Or, how about a serviceman or a factory worker or a Christian family surrounded by unholy neighbors in a community?

Note the words, "Help, Lord," in verse 1. This is an unusually vehement cry for help from God. Also notice in verse 8 the call that is given to rich and well known people to remember their responsibility. 'Tis true, this world is not our home; our citizenship is in Heaven. We are pilgrims passing through on our way to the holy city. Though we are in the world, we are not to be of the world Thank God for New Testament churches, thank God for Christian schools, thank God for youth departments, thank God for that community within a community called the New Testament church. Let us center on it and build our lives around it.

PSALM 13

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David was being hunted in the mountains by Saul. Saul's jealousy had prompted him to make a vow to take the life of David. David flees for his life and while in the mountains, he writes Psalm 13. Now with this picture in mind, read the Psalm. Notice especially the words, "How long?" This question is repeated four times. It speaks of a very intense desire for deliverance, and this desire soon bordered on impatience. Yet through it all David says in verse 6 that he will sing unto the Lord. His faith kept him singing in the midst of heavy trials.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was used by God's people during prolonged suffering. They would sing it during a prolonged illness or prolonged famine. Many of God's people have an incurable disease or have been under the chastening or refining hand of God for a long time. Such people should sit beside David in the mountains and sing the thirteenth Psalm.

One day an old man was hitchhiking. Over his shoulder rested a bag of potatoes. Soon a driver stopped his car to offer a ride. The old man got in, sat down and yet kept the bag of potatoes over his shoulder. The driver of the car looked at him and said, "Sir, put the sack of potatoes on the floor," whereupon the old man replied, "Sir, it's asking enough for you to carry me. It's asking too much for you to have to carry the potatoes too." The driver said, "Sir, I'm already carrying the potatoes. There's no need in both of us bearing the weight. Put your load down." Ah, how many of us go through life carrying our own load when the great Bearer of burdens is with us constantly.

PSALM 14

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

We come back to the story of David and Absalom and Absalom's rebellion against his father. It is probable that this Psalm was written as David fled from Jerusalem during Absalom's rebellion. It is akin to Psalm 3, so it was written in the darkest hour of David's life after having been forsaken by family and friends.

The dedication to this Psalm, "To the chief musician by David," stands at the head of 53 Psalms. What this means is that these Psalms were intended not merely for private use but that they were also to be sung by the official appointed choir at great assemblies. In other words, these Psalms were to be used for public worship as well as private meditation and praise. The ancient church practiced the singing of these Psalms at public worship.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was sung by the people when they had been forsaken by family and/or friends. When this time comes, the Christian must be reminded that there is One Who will never forsake him. Someone has said that there are 366 promises in the Bible that God is with us and will not leave us. Ah, what great comfort this is! There are 365 days in a year. Think of it—a promise for every day. "But," reminds one, "there are 366 promises." Ah, yes, but is there not a leap year when we have 366 days? God promises to be with us every day, not even omitting one. God reminds us that He will never leave us or forsake us. In this passage there are five negatives. Now in the English language a double negative is bad grammar, but in the Greek, added negatives are given to increase emphasis. God gives us five negatives. The promise could be translated something like this, "No, I will not never leave thee nor not never forsake thee."

PSALM 15

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The ark of the covenant was a sacred box. It was in the holy of holies in the tabernacle. Its top was the mercy seat overlaid with gold over which the shekinah glory, representing God's presence, hovered. The ark had been captured by the Philistines, and when it was retaken by the Jews it was not brought immediately to Jerusalem. David had vowed to bring the ark back to Jerusalem. Ah, 'twas a happy day in his life when the ark returned. He was so happy that he danced around the ark singing praises. His wife, Michal, looked from the window and saw David demonstrating such ecstacy. It disgusted her and she rebuked him for it, but even the rebuke of his sullen wife did not dampen his joy. The ark was back home! David had succeeded in bringing it back! Perhaps it was then that David wrote the fifteenth Psalm. With the reclaiming of the ark fresh in his mind and with the words of rebuke from Michal still ringing in his ears, he pens the five verses of this Psalm.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jew used this Psalm before going to Jerusalem. Three times a year the Jews were to make a trek toward the city of Jerusalem for the three main feasts. Before embarking on such a journey, it was their habit to sing the fifteenth Psalm.

It was also a Psalm sung and read before prayer. It Was the kind of a Psalm that was to prepare the heart for prayer. Notice verse I, "Lord, who shall abide in Thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in Thy holy hill?" Before the child of God lifts his heart to prayer to ascend the holy hill of intercession or the tabernacle of fellowship with his God, he must realize that the access is found in this Psalm. God will not answer our prayers nor honor our intercession unless we come to Him by way of the prerequisites listed in Psalm 15. Notice some of them: We must walk uprightly, work righteousness, seek the truth, and refuse to gossip or do evil against our neighbor. There are others that form the stairsteps of access to God. Read it before you pray. Read it before you go to church on Sunday. It will prepare your heart.

PSALM 16

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This Psalm finds David running from Saul. He comes to the mountain of Maon. He is on one side of the mountain. He finds that Saul is on the other side. Bear in mind that Saul is attempting to kill David. Soon Saul's forces encircled David until he thought that death was inevitable. Just when it appeared that escape was impossible a messenger came and shouted to Saul, "Philistines have invaded the land." This diverted Saul's attention and David was spared once again. During this time of tension David penned the words of Psalm 16. Notice the prayer in verse 1, "Preserve me, 0 God: for in Thee do I put my trust." Even in this time of adversity and fear David could rejoice. Look at verse 9 where David said, "Therefore my heart is glad, and my glory rejoiceth: my flesh also shall rest in hope." The pleasures of the world may take one's mind from his troubles, but the Lord Jesus can give us joy in our troubles. Of course, deliverance from trouble brings joy and happiness, but our wonderful Saviour gives us joy in our troubles.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews learned to use this Psalm when facing death. Perhaps a.dread disease had overtaken one of God's children and death was inevitable. He would flee to Psalm 16. When one of God's people had a loved one or friend who was facing death, he would read or sing this Psalm to his friend. Rush these verses to the terminal cancer patient. Speed them to his loved ones. What comfort, help and strength they will find!

PSALM 17

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The story is the same as Psalm 16.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

Also the use is the same as Psalm 16. Perhaps the reader has already noticed the trend. God has what we need in every occasion. There is no condition in which the Christian can find himself or need that he can require that is not beautifully satisfied by the Psalms.

PSALM 18

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This Psalm was written after David had won a victory over Goliath's family. It is a Psalm of joy, a Psalm of victory, a Psalm of exaltation. The Psalm is also found in II Samuel 22.

It is noteworthy that though this was a wonderful victory, it was a needless battle. Goliath and his family should not have even been alive. God had told Joshua and his people to destroy and drive out the heathen in the land of Canaan. Among these people to be driven out and destroyed were the Anakites. These were giant people, the ones that the spies mentioned upon returning to the promised land to report to the children of Israel. Joshua, however, did not destroy all of the Anakites but let some live in Gaza, in Gath and in Ashdod. Because of Joshua's incomplete obedience, much grief was brought to the people of God by the descendants of Anak. It is never right to obey our God partially. We must completely obey Him, for those things that we fail to crucify in our lives will return to haunt us in the future.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was sung and read after deliverance from a great struggle. The Jew would sing it after he had recovered from an illness or after he had won a great battle. It was also a Psalm that was used on Thanksgiving Day or during the Thanksgiving season. Has God recently given to you a great victory? Have you recently recovered from a serious illness? Join David in his shout of victory in Psalm 18.

PSALM 19

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

These words were written by David when he was anointed as a boy to become king. Samuel had come to the house of Jesse to anoint one of his sons as king. Jesse never thought of David. When all the other sons had been rejected by Samuel, then Jesse was reminded that David was in the fields. He reluctantly, and with some embarrassment, told Samuel of young David. Samuel went to David and anointed him to become the king. Picture David in the wilderness caring for the sheep writing this, one of the most beautiful of all the Psalms. What beautiful imagery is found in verses 1-6! What logic is found in verses 7-1 1! What an amazing warning is found in verse 13! What a tremendous secret to the Christian life is given in verse 14! David is seeking God's help as he assumes this amazing new responsibility. One of the most important prayers that he prays is in verse 12, "Cleanse Thou me from secret faults." The term "secret faults" means more than faults that are hidden from other people; it means faults that are hidden from David himself. There are certain faults that we have that we do not know that we have. David is asking God to reveal to him his faults and then cleanse him from those when they are revealed.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was used at the nighttime. It as basically used when the Jew felt pride coming his way. It is akin to Psalm 8 in this respect. It was for the developing of humility.

It is interesting to note the three places the Christian is to look in this Psalm. In verses 1-6 he is to look UP. In verses 7-1 1 he is to look AT. In verses 12-14 he is to look IN. He looks up to God in verses 1-6; he looks at the Word of God in verses 7-11 and looks inside his own heart in verses 12-14.

PSALM 20

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This Psalm is akin to Psalm 15. It deals with the bringing of the ark back to Jerusalem. At this time there was a war with the Syrians. Before going to war, David writes the twentieth Psalm. You will find this mentioned in verse I when he speaks of the Lord hearing him in the day of trouble. Then in verse 2 he seeks help from the sanctuary and from Zion. He reminds God in verse 6 that He saveth His anointed, and then in that amazing verse 7, he speaks of the foolishness of trusting in chariots and horses (which were used in battle) and in the wisdom of trusting in the name of our Lord for battle. How wise he was to claim the blessing and power of God and victory through this power before fighting a battle! Picture David waiting for the battle, girding himself for the conflict, and writing this Psalm as a part of that preparation.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

When the Jew was facing a time of testing, he would read Psalm 20. When the general was facing battle, he would read and sing the twentieth Psalm. It was to be read and sung BEFORE the battle or the testing. Are you facing some serious battle? Are you awaiting surgery? Is there a testing just ahead of you? Then Psalm 20 is for you as it was for David.

PSALM 21

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The story is the same as Psalm 20.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The use is the same as Psalm 20. There is a wonderful comforting statement in verse 3. Notice the words, "for Thou preventest him with the blessings of goodness." The word "prevent" had a different meaning in David's time. It meant "to go before and prepare the way." Before the Jew would enter battle, testing or adversity, he would remind himself by reading Psalm 21 that God was before him in the battle.

These words are being written while aboard a DC-10 jet flying from Chicago to San Francisco. Our daughter, Linda, is now in the hospital. She has been in labor and travail for 24 hours. I just called the hospital before boarding the plane. The flight will last for four hours. I do not know how it is with her. She is even now undergoing testing and, in some sense, her father is in a battle also. What a comfort to know that the Lord goes before us in these battles, in times of testing, and prepares the way! Praise His name!

PSALM 22

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

It is not clear as to whether this Psalm was written while running from Saul, when Saul was trying to kill him, or when he was running from Absalom because of his unwillingness to fight against Absalom's forces. Nevertheless, it was a time of tragic heartache for David. He was without a helper in verse 11. He was stripped in verse 17. He was pierced in verse 16. He was made a gazing-stock in verse 17. His garments were parted in verse 18.

This is what we call a Messianic Psalm. It has a twofold meaning. It describes David in his sorrow, but it is also a beautiful description of Jesus on Calvary. Notice the words of Calvary in verse 1. Notice the parting of the garments of Calvary in verse 18. Read it carefully. It will make you appreciate your Saviour and the sufferings of the cross.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews never knew exactly when to sing the 22nd Psalm. They rarely did. It was a holy of holies for them. They entered into it only occasionally and seldom sang it.

PSALM 23

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

It is rather difficult to ascertain the exact occasion of the writing of the 23rd Psalm. There are those who feel that the Psalm was written when David was a lad tending the sheep, because it is a shepherd's psalm. However, there is evidence that this is not true. For example, in verse 5, he was old enough to have enemies. In verse 4 he was facing the danger of death. In verse 3 he was experiencing rest, and in verse 5 he was experiencing prosperity. These things all point to an older person, or at least one who had reached maturity or adulthood. Probably the 23rd Psalm was written while David was at Mahanaim wondering how the battle was between his forces and those of his son, Absalom, during the civil war caused by Absalom's rebellion. Of course, David was grief-stricken and heartbroken. It may have been the darkest hour of his life and this is where he penned the beautiful words, "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want." I wonder how many people have been comforted and strengthened in times of sorrow, bereavement and heartache through these immortal words.

I was on an airplane flying from Cleveland, Ohio, to Chicago. I was reading the Bible. A lady beside me, to whom I had briefly spoken, noticed that I was reading the Bible. She said to me timidly, "Mister, when you finish with that Bible, could I read it?"

I said, "Why, of course, you may." Then I noticed tears in her eyes. I asked her if she had a heartache, whereupon she informed me that she was going to Houston, Texas, to see her dying father. She didn't expect to arrive before his death. I asked her what part of the Bible she would like for me to read. She said, "Please read the 23rd Psalm." I read audibly these great verses.

There are some things worth noticing in this beautiful Psalm. Notice in verse 2, "He maketh me to lie down in green pastures." The key word here is the word "maketh." Sometimes the shepherd MAKETH the lamb to lie down in green pastures. Oftentimes a lamb would not stay in the fold. He would leave only to be sought and brought back to the fold by the shepherd. Again he would leave, and again he would not stay. Finally, for the lamb's own good, the shepherd would take his leg and gently break it, forcing the lamb to lie down in green pastures. Now the lamb cannot stray; he must stay close to the fold and to the shepherd. How often God does the same thing to us! He wants us close to Himself. We stray. He pleads with us to return. We stray again. Finally, to keep us close to Him, He has to break our leg or to cause some sorrow or heartache to come to our lives. What is He doing? He is MAKING us to lie down in green pastures.

Notice the words in verse 4, "Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me." The shepherd's rod had on one end a point and on the other end, a fork. The point on one end was used as a goad to prod the sheep when it would not move and obey. On the other end it had a fork that was used to place over the neck of the serpent in order to protect the lamb from reptiles. 'Twas the same stick—one end was used for protection and comfort; the other end was used for chastening. Ah, God has a rod—the blessed Word of God. It is comfort, it is chastening—it is that sharp, two edged sword. Thank God for its truths!

The last verse is beautiful. A famous preacher had a lady in his church who was not quite mentally normal. She kept coming to him and saying, "Pastor, two men are following me." The pastor would assure her that no one was behind her. Again she would say, "Pastor, two men are following me." He tried to reassure her. She kept coming again and again until finally one day the pastor said to her, "Yes, I know there are two men following you, and I know their names."

She said, "Oh, you do?"

"Yes," he said. "Their names are Goodness and Mercy," and he turned to Psalm 23:6 and showed her that goodness and mercy shall follow her all the days of her life and she shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever. She was so pleased to know the names of the men who were following her, and she never again caused her pastor any trouble. Praise the Lord! Goodness and mercy are following me too, and they will all the days of my life.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The 23rd Psalm was used in the deepest of sorrows. It was that Psalm which was reserved until the worst tragedy came. Many of the Psalms were used in times of trial and adversity, but this one was the most potent of all, reserved for the lowest valley and darkest midnight, for the densest fog and for the sharpest pain.

PSALM 24

AUTHOR: DAVID

The Story Behind the Psalm

The rebellion is over. David returns to Jerusalem, to the palace and to the house of God. His son, Absalom, has been killed in the battle. David's forces have been victorious. It was a victory for David, but a hollow victory it was because he lost his son. But now he returns to the palace and writes the 24th Psalm. Picture him as he has returned home as you read the Psalm.

This Psalm, however, goes far beyond David. The 22nd, 23rd and 24th Psalms picture the Lord Jesus Christ. The 22nd Psalm beautifully pictures His death, the 23rd Psalm pictures Him as the resurrected one during this age shepherding His sheep and supplying our needs. The 24th Psalm presents Him as the King in the kingdom age, as the Messiah. Hence, David becomes a picture of Jesus. His suffering in the city of Jerusalem and leaving the city pictures death and burial. His love for Absalom while he is away from the city pictures Jesus' love for us now, and his returning to the city to claim the victory pictures Jesus coming to the earth again. His ruling on the throne after the victory pictures the Lord Jesus coming back to earth to rule and reign for 1000 years during the millennial kingdom.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jewish people longed for the Messiah. They looked for Him and prayed for Him. When this longing would arrive at its zenith and their hunger for the Messiah's return would reach its peak, they would read and sing the 24th Psalm. When you get hungry for Jesus to return, read the 24th Psalm and pray that He soon wi ill come as King of kings and Lord of lords.

PSALM 25

AUTHOR: Unknown

The authorship of this Psalm is often attributed to David, but it seems there is not quite enough evidence to substantiate this position.

The Story Behind the Psalm

I have a strong feeling that this Psalm was written during the Babylonian exile. By way of review, Israel became a nation while in Egypt. She was delivered from Egypt by Moses, and he was the nation's first leader. Following Moses came Joshua. Following Joshua came the time of the judges, which was a dark period in the life of Israel when every man did that which was right in his own eyes. It was a time of anarchy and spiritual darkness. Israel clammored for a king, and God gave her one. His name was Saul. Following Saul was David and following David was his son, Solomon. Following Solomon was Rehoboam. Under Rehoboam, the kingdom was divided into the northern and southern kingdoms. After many years, both Judah and Israel were taken into Babylonian captivity. For 70 years or more the people of God were there in captivity. This Psalm perhaps was written during that period of 70 years. Notice that the Psalm closes with a plea for God to redeem Israel out of all its troubles. No doubt this is a prayer asking for God to deliver Israel from bondage and back to her land.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews would turn to this Psalm when in prison or in bondage. It is a Psalm of deliverance, a Psalm asking

for God's grace while in bondage and captivity. Is there a prisoner reading these words? Turn to this Psalm in your hour of bondage, and have faith and believe that God will help you.

PSALM 26

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David has now brought the ark of the covenant back to Jerusalem. How happy he is! How sweet were his shouts! How joyful was his dancing around the ark as it came back to its home! In appreciation to God and in gratitude for God's blessings in allowing the ark to return to Jerusalem, David goes to the altar to offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving. Notice verses 6-8. In verse 6 he approaches the altar. In verse 7 he tells why he is offering the sacrifice, and in verse 8 he rejoices because of his love for the house of God and, no doubt, because of his happiness in that the ark is back. David first prayed that the ark would return. He then put feet to his prayers and worked to bring about its return. He then rejoiced and praised God when it returned, and now he remembers to be thankful because it has returned. The house of God was just not the same without the ark of the covenant because over that ark rested the shekinah glory which was symbolic of God's presence and power with His people.

This turns our attention back to the time when the ark of the covenant left Israel. The Philistines noticed that there was a power that rested upon this ark and that God's blessings always accompanied its presence. Thinking that it would help them also, they captured the ark and took it to their own land. It caused them nothing but trouble because they were not God's people, and they were glad to have it brought back. 'Twas a sad day in the life of Israel when the ark left. Eli was the high priest. He was an aged man. One of his son's wives was expecting a baby. When Eli found that the ark had gone, he did not want to live. He fell, broke his neck and died. His son's s wife went into premature labor and brought forth a son whose name was Ichabod, which means, "the glory has departed." 'Tis a sad time in the life of the house of God when the glory has departed. More than we need carpet, more than we need chandeliers, more than we need buildings, more than we need padded pews, more than we need an educated clergy, more than we need money, do we need the power and glory of God! Oh, think of the churches across the land over whose doors could be written, "Ichabod," the glory has departed. Once there was a breath of God. Once there was the power of the Holy Spirit, but now gone maybe forever is this glory. How we should pray for our churches that the freshness of the dew of Heaven will rest upon pulpit and the pew!

The old country preacher in the South was praying, "Dear Lord, give me the unction, give me the unction, give me the unction."

Someone came and said, "Reverend, what is the unction?"

The old preacher cried, "I don't know what it is, but I know what it ain't!"

Oh, for the breath of God that Moody received on Wall Street that day! Oh, for the power of God that Wesley received after an all-night prayer meeting with 60 other preachers! Oh, for the breath of Heaven that came on George Whitfield when he was ordained and Bishop Benson laid his hands of dedication upon him! Oh, for the power of God that settled on Savonarola as he waited in his pulpit five hours refusing to preach!

Oh, for the power of God that came upon Billy Sunday, Charles G. Finney and Jonathan Edwards and the other mighty men of God! Let us pray that "Ichabod" will not be written over the doors of our churches and that those who have that sad history will somehow bring the ark back to the house of God and the power of God shall rest once again upon the preacher and people, and the altar shall be filled with sinners and the cry of newborn babes coming to Christ!

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews would use this Psalm before offering a sacrifice. They would also use it before coming to the house of God. As they would come to the house of God, they would turn to this Psalm and read it and sing it.

PSALM 27

AUTHOR: DAVID

The Story Behind the Psalm

David had heard of Absalom's death and of his victory. Naturally he was pleased because he was still the king. He was heartbroken because his son had been killed in battle. Hence, he had a dual feeling when he wrote this Psalm. It is called a "composite" Psalm. Verses 1-6 were sung to a jubilant, double beat. Verses 7-14 were sung to a mournful and slow beat. This was called a "double expression." It was written thusly because David was both jubilant and mournful. Read verses 1-6 and enjoy David's jubilation. Read verses 7-14 and mourn with him because of his sorrow.

In a real sense this is the way all of us should be all the time. We should rejoice that our names are written in Heaven and yet mourn because the names of others are not there. We should rejoice because there is a Heaven and mourn because some will be lost forever in the fires of Hell. We should rejoice because of God's goodness to us and yet mourn because of sin on every side.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was sung after great victories. Bear in mind that every great battle that was won also carried with it the loss of life. Those of us who have lived through wars have learned that even in a war that is won, there is also sorrow. I think of those friends of mine who gave their lives in World War Il—the first baseman on our softball team, the pitcher on our baseball team, the fellow who had the paper route down the street from me, my tennis doubles partner, not to mention my buddies with whom I trained in the infantry and paratroopers. Has there been a victory in your life which also brought with it lamentation and sorrow? You will find a kindred spirit in the one who wrote the 27th Psalm.

PSALM 28

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

Here we have another "composite" Psalm. It is, however, a reverse of the preceding one. This one starts off sad and meditative in verses 1-5 and then leaps to joy and rejoicing in verses 6-9.

This composite Psalm was written by David during Absalom's rebellion while he was at Mahanaim. He was rejoicing in God's goodness to him and yet was brokenhearted because of the circumstances caused by his son's rebellion. Picture him as he is outside the city, his own forces are fighting with those of his son, his son has turned against him. However, God is good, and so David is sad and mournful for a few verses and then he leaps into praise for the next few.

This Psalm is one in which David pleads and begs.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

Psalm 28 was used during times of intercession when God's people fasted, prayed and pleaded for God to hear and answer them. They would sing and read this Psalm. Is there something that has caused you to turn to fasting and praying? Is there something for which you are pleading now? Are you praying day and night and calling unto God? Then enter into the agony and, yes, even the joy of David in the 28th Psalm.

PSALM 29

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

It is not clear concerning the conditions surrounding the writing of the Psalm. It is strongly suggested that David was watching a storm rise and subside. This is the only hint we have concerning the background of the Psalm. Verse 5 reminds us that the Lord breaketh the cedars. Then in verse 7 he obviously makes reference to lightning. Verse 8 may have to do with a mild quake or at least a heavy rumbling storm. Verse 10 talks about the floods. The Psalmist is seeing the Lord even in the destruction of a bad storm.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jewish people sang the 29th Psalm on the first day of the feast of pentecost which was a harvest feast. This was 50 days after the passover. They also sang this Psalm when they wanted to be cheered. When the Jew was melancholy or somewhat sad, he would often give himself the recipe of taking the 29th Psalm.

PSALM 30

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David had committed a sin. He had numbered the people. Now when a leader numbered the people, this was to prepare them for war. God was not in this numbering and offered David three choices of punishment: (1) seven years of famine, (2) three months of defeat, or (3) three days of pestilence or sickness. David chose the latter, whereupon 70,000 people died. David himself became ill. He built an altar on the threshingfloor of Araunah (perhaps this was the same spot as was Mt. Moriah where Abraham offered Isaac, and some even think it was the location of Calvary). There at the altar David is forgiven for his sin. He dedicates this altar and writes the 30th Psalm. The 30th Psalm is a Psalm of dedication of the altar built on the threshingfloor of Araunah. Can you imagine David with the blood of 70,000 people on his hands begging God for forgiveness? With this image in your mind read the 30th Psalm.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The Jews used this Psalm for dedication services of synagogues and other important buildings. It was also used at what was called the feast of dedication, which was a feast corresponding with our early December and lasting for eight days during which the people purged the temple. This Psalm was used while eating and singing at this feast and purging.

PSALM 31

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

As was mentioned in the comments about the 30th Psalm, David chose the punishment of three days of pestilence. During this time he became severely ill, and while he was ill, he wrote the 31st Psalm. Throughout the Psalm you will find statements concerning the severity of his illness. As the Psalm is read, the reader should picture David in tremendous suffering for his sin of numbering the people.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This is the Psalm to which God's people turned when they had an illness. This would be good for any age as people turn to God for healing and health.

PSALM 32

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

When David was healed of the illness mentioned previously, he then wrote the 32nd Psalm. It is a penitential Psalm, which means that David was repenting of his sin. He was also praising God for forgiveness and for healing.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

Obviously the 32nd Psalm was used by the Israelites after healing and after forgiveness. Feel the pathos, the joy and the thrill of forgiveness and healing as the 32nd Psalm is read.

Those who have slipped into sin and left God's perfect plan should kneel now and come back to God. He will forgive, and a sweet peace of heart will flood the soul of the penitent one, and he may feel the incomparable joy of being right with his God and forgiven of his sins.

PSALM 33

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The story is the same as Psalm 32.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

The use is the same as Psalm 32.

PSALM 34

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David was running from Saul, and Saul had vowed to kill him because of jealousy. David ran to Gath and to King Achish. He wanted to seek refuge in Gath. However, some of the king's servants knew David and began to sing the song, "Saul hath slain his thousands, but David has slain his tens of thousands." David realized that he was recognized. Because of fear he feigned madness. He put spittle on his beard and grasped for the gate like an insane man. He told them that he had come to join the army, but he purposely failed the test. He marked on the gate and roamed and staggered as a mad man would. Because of this, he was refused admittance to the army as he had planned, and was delivered. Upon this deliverance, he wrote the 34th Psalm. Though David's antics were questionnable, he nevertheless did give God the praise for his deliverance and wrote a song concerning it.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

Israel used this Psalm to sing and read when alone among enemies. When one was captured in battle, he would lean heavily upon the 34th Psalm. A summary of this would be found in verses 6 and 7. Notice verse 6, "This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles." Then read that classic verse 7, "The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them."

How good God is! He has so much more for us than we could ever ask or think, and even in our folly, He

cares for us. Once a little boy went with his mother to the grocery store. He saw a big barrel of candy. While looking at it longingly, he was noticed by the grocery man who said, "Go ahead, Johnny, get a handful free." Johnny didn't move. "Go ahead," said the grocery man, "it's yours. Get you a handful. It won't cost you a cent." Johnny still didn't move his hand. Finally the grocer reached down and got a handful and gave it to Johnny. Johnny smiled, put it in his pocket, and on the way home was asked by his mother, "Johnny, when the grocery man asked you to get a handful, why didn't you do it? Why did you wait until he could get it for you?"

Johnny smiled and said, "Mama, 'cause his hand is bigger than mine!"

Yes, God's hand is bigger than mine and yours, and that hand is dedicated to our protection and our defense.

PSALM 35

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This Psalm was written in connection with one of the most noble times in David's life. The story is found in I Samuel 24. David was asleep in a cave. This was during the time that he was running for his life from Saul. Saul's pursuits were dedicated to the murder of David. One night David rested inside a cave. When he awoke the next morning, he found Saul asleep on the outside of the cave. Here was David's chance. Saul had pledged to kill David, and now Saul lies sleeping at the mercy of David. Will David kill Saul? Would he seek revenge? He draws his sword, cuts off a little piece of the skirt of Saul's garment but does no more. He is asked why he does not seek revenge and kill Saul. He replies that he cannot lift up his hand against God's anointed. Saul was not what he should have been, but he was God's anointed. Saul was not perfect, but he was God's anointed. David will not seek revenge.

How often we want to seek revenge and vengeance against those who have wronged us! Let us with David realize that this is God's department, not ours.

We should also join David in refraining from lifting our hands against God's anointed. Oh, pray for God's men, love God's men, be loyal to God's men, stand beside God's men, hold high the hands of God's men. For years I've tried to help preachers. I've loved them, prayed for them, preached to them, come to their rescue and stood beside them. I love preachers. They are the hope of America. In many ways, they are the most lonely men in the world, but they hold in their hands the hope of the world. I once heard about a fellow who had ten sons. He said, "The first was a lawyer and the second was a liar too. The third was a banker and the fourth was a crook too. The fifth was a school teacher and the sixth was at a state institution too. The eighth was a doctor and the eighth stayed up all night too. The ninth was a preacher and the tenth didn't work for a living either." Of course, this is humorous, but it should not be true. God's men should be the hardest working men and the best men in the world, and God's people should hold them before the throne of grace in prayer, love and support.

The Way It Was Used By God's People

When a Jew was tempted to seek revenge, he often turned to the 35th Psalm, read it and sung it. It gave him strength as he saw an example in David.

PSALM 36

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This Psalm was written after David's victory over Goliath's four sons. One of these sons was named Ishbibenob. He had a spear that weighed 300 shekels. There was another brother whose name was Saph. There was another who had six fingers and toes. Of course, these were all giants because they came from the children of Anak. Upon winning the victory over these giants, David wrote Psalm 36. This Psalm is akin to the 18th Psalm.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

It was used after a victory, especially a great victory. There were many Psalms used after winning a victory, but the 36th was a special one used after conquering a mighty foe.

PSALM 37

AUTHOR: Probably Solomon

Some will dispute this, but there appears to be so much like Solomon in verses 10, 12, 13, 18, 23, 25, 37 and 38. Read these verses carefully and see if there is not a proverb flavor in them.

The Story Behind the Psalm

As was the case in Psalm 1, no doubt the author, probably Solomon, is teaching his son, probably Rehoboam, some things about life, righteousness, sin and God's will and plan. As the Psalm is read, it is not difficult to picture a wise father talking to his son instructing him about life. We have one boy. He is now grown and a preacher, Dr. David Hyles. When he was growing up, I taught him every night that I was home. I taught him about life, about manners, about girls, about athletics, about honesty, about integrity, about decency, about propriety. Hundreds and hundreds of hours, yea, even thousands of hours were spent teaching and teaching and teaching. As the 37th Psalm is read, one should keep a mental image of a father and his son together in a time of instruction.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was used for family instruction. Notice especially the amazing instruction given in verses 3-8. These are among the classic verses of the Bible.

When David was a little boy, he started riding to church with me. We would go early in the morning and come home late at night. The rest of the family would go later and come back earlier, but David always wanted to be with Dad, and it mattered not how long I counseled after the service, Dave would wait for me. When he first started riding to church with me, he could barely talk plainly. One morning coming home from Sunday school and church I asked him what the Sunday school lesson was about. He looked through his big brown eyes and said, "It was about God."

I then asked, "What did you learn about God?" whereupon he replied, "I learned that God loves me more than anyone else loves me, but that when I do wrong God spanks me, and, boy, does He spank! But after God spanks me, He then hugs me and tells me that it hurt. . . Him. . . worse than it. . . hurt. . . me.. . . Hey, Dad, . . . are you God?"

I looked at him through tears and said, "No, son, I'm not God, but I'm glad that you think I am, and I hope that after you've left our home, when you are grown, you will still think the old man is a little bit like God." From that moment on, I resolved to teach Dave about life. This I did and this every father should do. It is the heritage deserved by every son.

PSALM 38

AUTHOR: Job

The Story Behind the Psalm

Read carefully Job 42:1-6; then read the 38th Psalm. You will find an amazing similarity. Job had stood the test. God had allowed Satan to try him, and Job did not turn his back upon God. In one of the most marvelous displays of loyalty ever known, Job stood the test and kept his promise that even if God should slay him, he would still trust Him. However, when Job had stood the test and God had given him twice as much as he had before, Job became proud. How tragic it is that even in our highest hour, we are tempted to sin, and even in the holiest of duties, we stoop to human deeds! Job became proud of himself and God rebuked him severely. This drives Job to the ash heap to repent as is found in Job 42:1-6. Of course, God forgives him, and Job's temporary lapse does not tarnish our faith in him. It simply reminds us that he is human. I think that God places such a sin in the Bible to show us that all of us are human and potential backsliders. Abraham lied about Sarah. Paul took a Jewish vow. Noah was drunken. Moses lost his temper and smote the rock twice and numbered the people and was forbidden to enter into the promised land. Peter cursed and swore and denied that he belonged to the Saviour. David had his sin with Bathsheba and Uriah. God is reminding us that the best of men are men at best.

There is something very sweet in the story of Job. After Job had lost his sheep, his asses, his camels, his oxen and his children and, yea, all that he had, he stood the test and did not charge the Lord. After he had proved himself, God gave him back twice as many asses and twice as many sheep and twice as many camels and twice as many oxen, but He gave him the same number of children that he had before—ten. This used to bother me until one day it dawned on me. Job did have twice as many children as he had before. When an ox dies, it's dead. When an ass dies, it's dead. When a camel dies, it's dead. When a sheep dies, it's dead. When a child dies, it is not dead. Job did have twice as many children—he simply had ten on earth and ten in Heaven. Praise God!

The Way It Was Used by God's People

When a Hebrew sought repentance, he would often come to the 38th Psalm. It would lead him to repent of his sin. This is another of the penitential Psalms.

PSALM 39

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

This is one of David's earlier Psalms, written perhaps as he was a boy tending sheep. He had talked in haste and said something that he should not have said, and in this Psalm he is correcting himself. After David had spoken that which he should not have said, he then, realizing his error, became quiet. Notice verses 1 and 2. Then in verse 8 he asks forgiveness and shows that after he made his mistake, he did not speak.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was used as instruction to children concerning the tongue and saying things that should be said. If our tongues are to be controlled properly, our minds must be clean and pure, for the Bible says, "As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he," and what we are on the inside will eventually come out.

At a carnival or county fair or some similar type event, a barker was holding a handful of balloons. Each balloon was filled with helium. There were many colors among them. For a quarter or so a child could purchase a balloon. His name could be written on a card and attached to the balloon and then the balloon would be let up in the air. Of course, the hope was that someone would find the card many miles away and return it to the child. A little white boy came up and bought a white balloon. His name was put on the card, and the balloon went into space. A little Chinese boy rushed up and bought a yellow balloon. His name was placed on the card, the card was attached to the balloon, and the bal

loon soared into the sky. A little Indian boy came andpurchased a red balloon. His name was placed on a card, and the card was attached to the balloon, and the balloon was let go. It too disappeared into the heavens. Then a little brown boy did the same thing. Standing timidly at a distance was a little black boy. He noticed among the many balloons there was only one black one. He tiptoed shyly up to the barker and said, "Sir, will the black balloon go up in the sky too?"

The man put the black boy's name on the balloon and then let it soar into the sky. Then he patted the little black boy on the head and said, "Son, it's what's on the inside that counts."

Let us keep the inside clear so we can look to the Lord and say, "Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Thy sight."

PSALM 40

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The war with Absalom is over. Absalom, of course, has been killed. David has come back to the palace and is now sitting on the throne. From the throne he writes the 40th Psalm. Read with interest the first four verses and picture the king back on the throne after an absence. Ah, here is a beautiful picture. Jesus was crucified, and in this old sin-cursed world He is now the object of hatred, ridicule and anamosity. But one day, bless God, He will be back on the throne.

One day a little boy was reading a book. He got to the middle of the book and the villain was winning the battle. The hero was just about to lose. At that very moment the boy's mother commissioned him to come and dry the dishes. He begged for a postponement so he could finish the book. The mother was not in the postponing mood, and she said, "Son, you come and do these dishes now!"

The boy said, "But Mama, the hero is getting defeated and the villain is winning. I've got to stay and see how it comes out." The mother was not in a mood to comply and she said, "Johnny, you come in here now and do these dishes!"

Johnny quickly turned over to the last chapter and read it, and running to the kitchen to do the dishes he shouted, "Ah, villain, you are having a good time in the middle of the book, but you're in for the surprise of your life when you get to the last chapter."

Yes, Satan is the god of this world, and he is having a good time now, but I turned over to the end of the Book and read the last chapter! I read where Satan will someday be cast into the lake of fire and brimstone. I read where "Jesus shall reign where'er the sun does its successive journies run. His kingdom shall spread from shore to shore, 'til moons shall wax and wane no more." I read about a New Jerusalem, the foundations of precious jewels, gates of pearl and streets of gold. I read the last chapter where God's people shall reign with Him. I read the last chapter where it tells about the New Jerusalem coming down from God out of Heaven prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. I read the last chapter which tells us of a place where we shall live forever, where no crepe will darken the door, no palsy shall tremble the hand, no cancer shall remove the breast, and no grave will be like an open earthquake receiving its prey. Yes, I read the last chapter! Satan, old boy, you are in for the surprise of your life when you get there!

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm, as were many others, was used in singing after a great victory.

PSALM 41

Author: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David had a long-time trusted friend named Ahithophel. Ahithophel grew up with David. He was the grandfather of Bathsheba. David trusted him. Ahithophel was David's familiar friend. When Absalom rebelled against his father, he pursuaded Ahithophel to go with him. Ahithophel then became Absalom's counselor. When David left the city, Ahithophel advised Absalom to go in pursuit of David. His advice was rejected and because of this, Ahithophel went and hanged himself. The 41st Psalm was written at Ahithophel's betrayal of David. Read verses 5-9 especially and you will feel something of David's heart when his friend betrayed him.

There is a little fact here worth noting. It gives us a little insight as to why Ahithophel forsook David. David had stolen Bathsheba. Now when Absalom rebelled, Ahithophel followed him. No doubt he did so because Bathsheba was his granddaughter, and David was reaping the result of his sin.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

Have you known the bitter taste of a friend's betrayal? When such a taste came to one of the Israelites, he would often find strength in the 41st Psalm, especially in verse 12 where David is rejoicing in the fact that there is one true Friend Who will never turn His face from us, "And as for me, Thou upholdest me in mine integrity, and settest me before Thy face for ever."

PSALM 42

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

One of the loveliest little stories in the Bible pertains to a man named Barzillai. When David had fled the city of Jerusalem because of Absalom's rebellion, numbers of people had forsaken him. Included in these numbers were his own son, his trusted servant Shimei, the cripple Mephibosheth whom David had befriended in such a beautiful way, and David's close beloved lifetime friend, Ahithophel. When David got to Mahanaim, he was discouraged, lonely and heartbroken. An 80-year-old man named Barzillai came to David and brought him some victuals. He brought him food necessary for his sustenance. Upon receiving the food and the love of this wonderful old man, David wrote the 42nd Psalm. In verses I and 2 you will find how hungry he was to get back to the house of God. Notice verse 1, "As the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after Thee, 0 God." David was so hungry to get back to the house of God and the place where God had put him. In verse 7 David says, "Deep calleth unto deep." This meant that one problem came right after another. How refreshed he must have been to find one old friend who cared! While meditating upon this sweet friendship, David writes this beautiful Psalm.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was especially dear to the Jewish people when they were in Babylonian captivity. They would especially read verses 5 and 11 and pray, long, and hope for deliverance from captivity back to their beloved

homeland. They found strength in the fact that God provided for David while he was away from Jerusalem and that God restored him. This gave them hope that perhaps the same fortune could be theirs.

PSALM 43

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

The story is the same as Psalm 42.

he Way It Was Used by God's People

The use is the same as Psalm 42. Notice that verse 5 in this Psalm is the same as verses 5 and 11 in the 42nd Psalm .

PSALM 44

AUTHOR

Several possibilities have been projected. It is obviously a captivity Psalm. Because of this, its author could have been Daniel, Ezekiel, Ezra, Nehemiah or any one of a number of men. It was obviously written by someone who was in the captivity in Babylon.

The Story Behind the Psalm

As was mentioned in an earlier comment about one of the Psalms, the nation of Israel had been taken to captivity by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, where they spent over 70 years. It was while in that captivity, 500 miles from home, that this Psalm was written. Notice the sad statement in verses 1 and 2. The people in bondage could say only that they had heard with their ears, their fathers had told them the great things God had done. They themselves, however, had never seen much miracles or victories. In verses 9-14, you will find mention of their captivity, and you will see the deplorable condition in verse 22. Oh, how the people longed to return home! How they longed to see the beloved city, to rebuild the temple, to rebuild the walls around the city and to be a part once again of their wonderful homeland! But, there they sit 500 miles from home lamenting their predicament and longing for restoration.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

These words were sung by the Jews while in Babylon and in succeeding years by others who were away from home who were seized by homesickness. This would be

a good Psalm for servicemen to read, for college students and for others who find it necessary to be away from their beloved homes and find a hunger of heart to return.

PSALM 45

AUTHOR: Solomon

The Story Behind the Psalm

Solomon's serious weakness and ultimate downfall was his enchantment with heathen women. As all Bible students know, he had a thousand wives and concubines. On one occasion he married a beautiful Egyptian princess and for that marriage this Psalm was composed and sung.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This Psalm was sung at weddings, especially at weddings we would consider unholy ones. Tradition says that it was sung at the wedding of Ahab and Jezebel and also at the wedding of Jehoram and Athaliah. Wise parents will constantly warn their children concerning the dangers of marrying unconverted people, and if such a marriage is unwise, then such a courtship is unwise. Let this Psalm remind us to train our children not to stand in the way of sinners, not to walk in the counsel of the ungodly, but to make their friends, yea, all of their friends and ultimately their husbands and wives only from God's people.

PSALM 46

AUTHOR: Moses

The Story Behind the Psalm

The Israelites had just crossed the Red Sea. The waters had parted for them and had returned to drown the pursuing Egyptian armies, after God's people had crossed. Can you imagine the joy in the heart of the leader, Moses, upon this marvelous deliverance? He then wrote the 46th Psalm. No wonder he said in verse 1, "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." Notice in verse 2 his mention of the sea. In verse 3 you find again the mention of the waters being troubled. In verse 6 you have the heathen raging, referring to the Egyptian armies that had just been defeated.

This Psalm and the 47th, 48th and 49th were for the sons of Korah and were to be sung in public services.

Picture Moses on the safe side of the Red Sea with the enemies destroyed, writing and singing the 46th Psalm.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

This beautiful song was sung every year on the anniversary of the crossing of the Red Sea. It was also sung upon the resurrection of Jesus from the dead, which was on the exact date of the crossing of the Red Sea, just as the crucifixion of Christ was on the same day as the passover. When the enemy has been defeated, the victory has come, and God has raised one from seeming destruction and/or death, the 46th Psalm would be very appropriate reading.

PSALM 47

AUTHOR: David

The Story Behind the Psalm

David has come to the end of his reign. He looks back with thanksgiving and shouts, "0 clap your hands, all ye people; shout unto God with the voice of triumph." With a marvelous reign behind him he shouts in verse 6, "Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises." 'Ah, what a God! What a King! What a Saviour! Such a shout of praise can be on the lips of each of us if we will but live our lives and serve our God all the days of our lives. Imagine the pageantry of an old king handing the reigns and the throne to his son and looking back with thanksgiving to God for all that God had done and penning and singing the words of Psalm 47.

The Way It Was Used by God's People

Psalm 47 was sung at the anointing of Solomon and at his ascension to the throne. It was a congregational Psalm. It was sung by all the people together. It was also sung at thanksgiving feasts and at the anointing of all kings.

Have you ended a successful life? Are you coming to the close of the rearing of your children? Are you about to retire after years of service and hard work? Are you coming to the close of a pastorate where God has blessed? Then read Psalm 47 and join with the sweet singer of Israel, David, as he rejoices because of God's blessings. Ah, what a Psalm for senior citizens and those who are coming to the sunset years of life!

PSALM 48

AUTHOR: Jehoshaphat

The Story Behind the Psalm

Jehoshaphat was king of Judah. Moab and Ammon, two heathen nations, came against Jehoshaphat to battle. It must be remembered that the kingdom of Moab and the kingdom of Ammon came from two illegitimate boys who were sons of Lot. Lot had fled the city of Sodom upon its destruction. His wife had looked back and turned to a pillar of salt. He and his two daughters fled to a city called Zoar and there his daughers made him drunken, and he committed incest with each of them. One bore him a son whose name was Moab, and the other bore a son whose name was Ammon. These little boys born in incest became fathers of some great antagonistic nations. Now these nations come to battle against Jehoshaphat.

The first thing that Jehoshaphat did was to fear God and to seek the Lord and proclaim a fast throughout Judah. Judah gathered together to ask help of the Lord. God did give help and reminded them that the battle was not theirs but His. God through His prophet told them they would not need to fight. All they would have to do is stand still and see the salvation of the Lord. (This entire story can be read in II Chronicles 20.) The people of God simply began to sing and praise the Lord. Soon the Moabites and Ammonites began to quarrel with each other and began to kill each other, and God gave the victory to Jehoshaphat and his people. The people of God then came to Tekoa singing and shouting praise to the Lord. Then they returned with psalteries and harps to the temple, and Jehoshaphat wrote the

48th Psalm. Picture this marvelous victory where God Himself and by Himself had won the battles and set at naught the enemy. See these people saved from the brink of disaster singing Jehoshaphat's 48th Psalm. Hear them as they sing, "Great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised in the city of our God, in the mountain of His holiness." Hear them as they relive the assembling of the kings and nations against them in verse 4. Hear them sing of the beau