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 140 is a poignant cry for help from King David, emphasizing his desperate plea for protection against the violent and wicked individuals who seek to harm him. This psalm is structured as a prayer, beginning with a direct appeal to God for deliverance from those who have malicious intentions. David's vivid imagery illustrates the danger posed by these evil men, who not only plot against him but also wield their words like weapons, intending to ensnare him. He acknowledges the schemes laid out before him, comparing them to traps and snares. This metaphorical language heightens the urgency of his request as he seeks divine intervention. Throughout the psalm, David also expresses his unwavering faith in God as his protector and savior. He recognizes God’s sovereignty and strength, affirming that He has been his shield in times of battle. In a stark contrast to the wicked, who he believes will ultimately face justice, David is confident that God will uphold the cause of the afflicted and execute justice for the needy. The latter section of the psalm turns into a declaration of faith, where David contrasts the fate of the wicked with that of the righteous. He maintains that the righteous will ultimately rejoice and dwell in God's presence, highlighting a theme of hope amidst adversity. This psalm serves both as a prayer for personal deliverance and as an affirmation of David's faith in God's justice. It encapsulates the emotional turmoil of facing oppression while clinging to hope in divine justice, making it a powerful reflection on the nature of good versus evil, and the assurance found in God’s faithfulness.