The book of Psalms is a hymn book, rich in worship, and full of comfort for the believer. Though meant to be sung (2 Chronicles 29:28-30), many of the Psalms read like prayers and can be lifted up to God in times of trouble. They are brimming with human feelings and emotions and encourage us to be personal with God. But they are also full of Christ as He Himself attests (Luke 24:44). In fact, Jesus quotes from them more than any other Old Testament book.
While the majority of the 150 Psalms were written by King David, we know that there are many authors spanning many generations. Yet the feeling of worship remains constant throughout. Allow yourself to experience the true worship of God as we study together these gems of Hebrew poetry.
The Psalms are believed to actually be five compilations, or books, which were brought together within our Bible as the book of Psalms. The five books are as follows:
- Book I Psalms 1-41
- Book II Psalms 42-72
- Book III Psalms 73-89
- Book IV Psalms 90-106
- Book V Psalms 107-150
The Psalms do not have poetic rhythm as we know it in English prose. Nor do they necessarily rhyme. Some are acrostics, which means each verse begins with a different letter of the Hebrew alphabet. Some have unsignaled change of voice, making it challenging to keep up with who is speaking. And some have either a rhyming or an opposite thought which reoccurs throughout the song. All of these devices are typical in Hebrew poetry. Watch for them and enjoy the Psalms for the wonderful piece of literature that they are.
These daily devotions are the study of Book III. We will attempt to understand the teaching contained within these Psalms by reading the text and then comparing it to other writings within the Scriptures. Finally, we will seek to strengthen our relationship with a Most Holy God by applying what we are learning into our daily lives. I pray that your soul will be fed, your life will be changed, and your relationship with God will be all that you hope it could be.
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