Purpose

To provide a songbook for worship and express the full range of human emotions in relationship with God.

Author

Multiple authors over 1,000 years. David wrote nearly half (73 psalms), often during his years as a shepherd, warrior, and king. Other contributors include worship leaders, musicians, and poets.

Historical Context

Written: 1440-400 BC. Israel's worship songs covering 1,000 years of history from Moses to the exile.

Significance

The Bible's prayer book and hymnal, showing us how to relate to God honestly in every circumstance.

Key Themes

Worship, Prayer, God's Character, Trust, Deliverance

Interesting Facts

• Psalms is the longest book in the Bible with 150 chapters
• Jesus quoted Psalms more than any other Old Testament book
• Psalm 117 is the shortest chapter in the Bible (2 verses)

Prophecies

• Messianic psalms predicting Christ's suffering and glory (Psalms 22, 69, 110, etc.) Fulfilled: Jesus fulfilled these in His crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension (1000 years later)

Psalm 116 is a heartfelt expression of gratitude and faith, attributed traditionally to David. The psalmist begins by declaring his love for the Lord, emphasizing that God has attentively listened to his cries for mercy. The psalm unpacks a personal experience of distress, where the psalmist felt surrounded by death and anguish, yet turned to God in prayer for deliverance. This section fundamentally illustrates a profound connection between distress and divine intervention. The psalmist reflects on the gracious nature of God, acknowledging His mercy and righteousness. In verses 7-9, a transition occurs as the psalmist encourages his soul to return to rest, signifying a shift from turmoil to peace, highlighting the restorative power of God’s presence in times of trouble. The psalmist then ponders the question of how to repay God for His many blessings and deliverance. This leads to the commitment of lifting the 'cup of salvation' and publicly honoring God among His people. The mention of the 'preciousness' of the death of the saints resonates with the theme of divine care even in death, suggesting that God values the lives of His followers deeply. The concluding verses reinforce the psalmist's role as a servant of God, emphasizing a life dedicated to thanksgiving and worship. By ending the psalm with a call to praise, it encapsulates an attitude of worship that is deeply rooted in personal experience and communal expression. Overall, Psalm 116 serves as a reminder of God's faithfulness and the importance of responding to His goodness with gratitude and praise.