1. The psalmist prayed about everything, especially deliverance from his enemies. Then he thanked God for the deliverance, even though it had not happened yet. God’s loving faithfulness in history makes this perspective possible. The psalmist at times was in urgent need, yet still prayed and hoped, and did not give up. He still trusted the Lord would hear, and did not let his fear pilot the ship. They praised, were grad, rejoiced, had fullness of joy.
2. The psalmist recognized that God is for His people. Yahweh sees the poor and needy, the downtrodden, the righteous, helpless, afflicted, father of the fatherless, and more. God is infinitely caring for the poorest and wants to meet every need. He is compassionate, forgiving, loving, blessing His people.
3. God is a God of justice. He is expected to remove the wicked, evil, bloodthirsty, and deceitful, and bring righteousness to bear. He is called upon to destroy those who speak lies, make them fall into the pit they have made, blot out their names, break the arms of the wicked, and make them lick the dust.
4. The psalmist had forever in mind. A lasting ruler. A lasting kingdom. A lasting righteousness. Yahweh is from everlasting to everlasting. His mercy is forever. The Davidic Covenant is forever. Yahweh sits enthroned forever. Man’s days, in contrast, is brief, like a watch (3-4 hours) in the night. What is man, that He takes notice of him? How majestic is Your name.
5. The psalmist has many names for God and His protection for His people. Refuge, fortress, shield, a stronghold in time of trouble, and more. His names reflect the care He has for His people, a shepherd to care for them and keep them safe.
6. God is not lacking in weapons against the wicked. He whets His sword, readies His bow, makes His arrow fiery shafts. The wicked are caught in their own snares, their feet in their own nets. He rains coals on the wicked, fire and sulfur and scorching wind.
7. Because of all of the above, God is worthy to be praised. Of all the gods there could be, we got the very best possible one. There is no other God. This God who created us will carry us throughout life, giving rain and sun, fields and flowers, food and drink, shelter and rest, and a glorious tomorrow in His everlasting presence, rejoicing in His ruling of righteousness and justice.
8. Laments (expressions of sorrow, fear, and grief) outnumber the praises. The Psalmists are troubled for a variety of reasons. Enemies rise up against them; enemies defame them; the psalmists weep in grief, in fear of the future, for their enemies to take advantage of their weaknesses. They ask for mercy, deliverance, healing, relief from chastening, to bring judgment on their enemies, for understanding why the wicked prosper. The Psalms are models of prayer for how we can express our own sorrows and fears, and how to praise God for who He is and for His mighty works.
