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 68 is a vibrant and celebratory psalm traditionally attributed to David, expressing themes of God's power, protection, and provision for His people. The psalm begins with a proclamation of God’s triumph over His enemies, depicting them as being scattered like smoke and wax melting away before fire (verses 1-2). This imagery emphasizes God's superiority and the swift demise of those who oppose Him. The righteous, in contrast, are called to rejoice and sing praises to God, reflecting a deep sense of joy and celebration in His presence (verse 3). The psalmist then shifts to a focus on God's character as the protector of the vulnerable, specifically the fatherless and widows (verse 5). This highlights His role as a compassionate leader who cares for those in need and brings them into safety and prosperity (verse 6). The historical context is invoked as the psalmist recalls God's powerful acts during Israel's exodus from Egypt, where the earth shook and the heavens poured down rain, signifying God's mighty presence (verses 7-8). Further, verses 9-10 celebrate God's provision for His people, describing how He restores their inheritance and cares for the needy. The psalm then illustrates the chaos of battle, where kings flee and women divide the spoils, metaphorically displaying the victory God grants to His people (verses 11-12). The psalmist invokes the imagery of God’s chariots, emphasizing His overwhelming power and presence among His people (verses 17-18). The psalm concludes with a declaration of God as the source of salvation and deliverance, underscoring the idea that God bears the burdens of His people daily (verses 19-20). This psalm serves not just as a historical reflection but as an exhortation for the faithful to worship and trust in God's unchanging character and His ongoing involvement in their lives.