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 36, attributed to David, provides a profound reflection on the nature of human wickedness contrasted with the immeasurable steadfast love of God. The psalm opens with a stark observation of the wicked, who are depicted as lacking a fear of God and engaging in deceitful and malicious behavior. This portrayal highlights the moral decay that can reside in the hearts of individuals who are disconnected from divine truth. The psalmist notes how the wicked flatter themselves, believing themselves beyond reproach, and this self-deception leads them to plot evil rather than embrace righteousness. In contrast, the focus shifts dramatically in verses 5-10 to celebrate the attributes of God. The psalmist marvels at the extent of God's steadfast love, which is likened to the vastness of the heavens, and His faithfulness, which reaches the clouds. The imagery used here serves to emphasize the boundless and unwavering nature of God’s love and support. The metaphor of God as a refuge and a source of sustenance reinforces the idea that those who seek Him find ultimate safety and nurturing. Verses 7-9 poetically express the joy and fulfillment that come from being in relationship with God. The metaphor of taking refuge under His wings evokes a sense of safety and protection, while the 'river of delights' and 'fountain of life' imagery speaks to the spiritual nourishment found in God's presence. The psalmist’s request for continued love and righteousness highlights the believer's dependence on God’s grace and guidance. The concluding verses serve as a sobering reminder of the fate of the wicked. The imagery of evildoers lying fallen and unable to rise serves as a warning of the consequences of living life apart from God’s ways. Ultimately, Psalm 36 encapsulates a sharp contrast between human sinfulness and divine grace, calling the faithful to rely on God’s unfailing love and righteousness while remaining vigilant against pride and evil.