Psalm 5: The In the Morning Prayer Psalm

Psalm 5: The "In the Morning" Prayer Psalm

Psalm Five Stats:  Superscription:  "To the Chief Musician with Wind Instruments*, A Psalm of David"   Book I     # of Verses: 12 *Flutes

First Verse:  "Give ear to my words, O LORD; consider my meditation (sighing-groaning)."

Final Verse:  "For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous with favor wilt thou compass (surround) him as with a shield."     

Mark It! My and Thy Parts:   My: (David) my words, my meditation, my cry, my King, my God, my voice, my prayer, my face.    Thy: (The LORD) thy righteous, thy way, thy house, thy holy temple 

A Morning Prayer:  In the morning, says verse three, David would direct his prayer unto the LORD, and look up.  Does the Lord hear your voice in the morning?  

Mom's Morning Prayer Time:  Every morning my mom got down on her knees beside her bed.  Always first she would cover her head with a small handkerchief for mom believed this scriptural.  Little feet would interrupt her many times, but faithful mom always kept her on-her-knees morning prayer time each and every day but Sunday.  How blessed was I to have had a mother who demonstrated prayer and Scriptural reading all the days of her life.  How I thank the Lord over and over for her godly example!     

Illustrate It!  Draw a picture of King David surrounded by an upward pointing arrow frame as he prayed to his King and his God.

Note It!  The Evil Vs. The Righteous:  David noted that God took no pleasure in wickedness.  The foolish, says David, won't stand with you God.  But, David ends with you Lord will bless the righteous.

Psalm 5's Five Stanzas:  This psalm has five parts three positive, and two negative.  Verses one-three finds David directing his morning prayer up to the Lord.  Verses four-six describe God isn't pleased with wickedness-- the workers of iniquity.  Verses seven, eight is positive again for David says, "as for me, I will come into thy house ... I will worship toward thy holy temple ... make thy way straight before my face ...."  Verses nine, ten change once again that the wicked are not faithful ... they have rebelled against God.  Finally, verses eleven, and twelve end with "But let all those trust in thee rejoice.... bless the righteous."

Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down!  Read aloud Psalm 5 with video.  Discuss which parts or sections deserve and thumbs up, or a thumbs down.  Practice reading Psalm using the thumb signal.  See photo. Click here to listen to Psalm 5 audio.  Bing Videos

A Psalm Story Con-verse-sation Starter:   I have a book, a more than a hundred and forty-year-old book, from the reign of Queen Victoria who died at 81 in 1901--one of the longest reigning monarchs of the UK.  Its black cover title is nearly unreadable except for the words "Church Hymns" at the bottom, but its inner pages though a bit tattered are not.  Its exact title is: The Book of Common Prayer and Administration of the Sacraments and other Rites and Ceremonies of the Church of England:  Together with the Psalter or Psalms of David ...."  Its first section is "The Order for Morning Prayer" while the second section is "The Order for Evening Prayer."     

This prayer book belonged to my Uncle John who lived in Burnley, England.  He must have been a young man when he used this book as he came via boat to the United States about 1911 just before the Titanic sank.  What a treasure and conversation starter for our grandchildren to talk about.   

Con-verse-sation Starter:  Explain that the Book of Common Prayer has many parts.  One is "The Order for Morning and Evening Prayer" Now often the content of these prayers is straight from Scripture, while other times it is a prayer someone has written.  Many of the prayers often tell you when to sit, and when to stand, and what to answer.   

However, often while performing ritual like prayer that the more one repeats the same thing over and over the more one may not pay attention to what they are saying, and the prayers then become rote repetition or vain repetition. Be aware often some churches use endless ritual rather than the sure Word of God.  

May the Lord hear our voices in the morning with prayers that come from our hearts.  And like David may we put our trust in the Lord and in the morning may we direct our prayer to him and look up!   

Parent Note: Often those who practice yoga lift up their eyes to the morning sun as do yogis, but may we direct our prayer to the Son of God.  For more thoughts see the article from the series here:  "ABC: Bible Meditation for Me!  S Is for Sun!"

Learn to Discern Granny: ABC: Bible Meditation for Me!: S Is for Sun!  (Click on this line to read "S Is for Sun!"    Very informative!)

Stat Mat Statistics:  View the Stat Mat at the bottom; click to enlarge.  Note its statistics--it's a Book I Psalm of David lament with twelve verses.  Look at the REF. suggested from Ps. 55:17 which begins with Evening Prayer to Morning Prayer to Noontime Prayer.  Make a bright bookmark with a moon, rising sun, and noontime sun--click on the stat photo to see a closeup.  Note the small pic of Wee Sing Bible Songs (1986); find it online here: 

Bing Videos

Illustrate or use a color book pic of David the author of this psalm.  How many Psalms of David are there?  Define "lament" --use a Bible concordance or online dictionary.

Chat Mat #1:  At the start of this Psalm study, I found a bag of foam/sticker musical symbols to use round the mat in a variety of ways.  Using page 37 from my Wee Sing Book I colored and popped up kids praising the Lord.  Cutting round parts of pics is something younger kids enjoy as they move the figures while singing or repeating Scripture.  See the little David with his tactile gear--his sword is movable, and his bottle top shield helps kids understand that a shield can be moved about to protect oneself.  Note the last verse of the Psalm that uses the word--shield.  Truly as another Psalm says the Lord is a shield for me, the lifter of mine head!

Chat Mat #2:  This mat centers round comparing yogic salutations or greetings in the morning compared to Biblical ones said in morning prayers.  Here is a terrific opportunity to teach your kids the difference.  Youngsters and oldsters can easily learn to whom one should pray!  Will one pray to the Hindu sun God Surya or the Biblical Lord?  Many kid books make yoga poses into cute little exercises but that is not what they really are.  Recall the commandment "Thou shalt have no other gods before me." or the Verse from Deuteronomy which clearly tells one not to worship the sun, moon, or stars.  By the way:  What is the role according to Ps.148 of the sun, moon, and stars.?  

Chat Mat Suggestion:  Personalize this mat to fit the needs of your friends/family.  As I possess a treasure trove of old books with interesting family history and history of England this is a great opportunity to share many scriptural prayer psalms and verses.

Action Rhyme for Kids

In the Morning Let's 

Take a Psalm Break!

In the morning let's take a Psalm break!

A lift up your palms break.

An everyone be calm break.

A look up to God break, to pray:

"Hearken to the voice of my cry,

my King, and my God: for unto

thee will I pray.  My voice shalt thou

hear in the morning, O LORD:

in the morning will I direct my prayer

unto thee and look up."  (From Ps. 5:2-3)

                                                           LEP

Motions:

  

Lift up palms.  Cross arms; sway.

Fold hands.  Pray.  Touch lips.  Point up.   

 

          

 

              

 

       

   

    

   

  

 

Psalm 139: One of the Most Awesome Psalms of the Psalter!

Psalm 139: One of the Most Awesome Psalms of the Psalter

Often labeled one of the grandest Psalms of the Psalter Psalm 139 would have to have a five-star rating and then some.  Filled with amazing verses the Psalm celebrates God's all-knowing watch care over his creation.  Called an omni-psalm by some it zeroes in on his omniscience, his omnipresence, and his omnipotence. 

Psalm Stats:  This Psalm, part of Psalms 107-150 or Book V, is titled "To the chief musician. A psalm of David."  Just twenty-four verses in length its contents from its first to its final verse make a super word-search chapter in which to put together a Psalm 139 ABC!  And if you do this (See exercise below!) you'll find one of the verbs used right away is "to know!"

The All-About the Word Lady: Jeanie #2:  This Psalm is a favorite of a dear friend I've dubbed Jeanie #2--recall Jeanie #1, the Okahumpka Psalm Lady-- who inspired this series.  Now, Jeanie #2 is much like Jeanie #1--an "all about the word lady" who is an avid prayer-warrior.  Jeanie and I love to have con-verse-sations about the Word.  Invariably she and I will be talking, and she'll begin a verse, and I'll finish it, or vice versa I'll begin a verse, and she finishes it.  And we'll often laugh when we do this.  Perhaps, verse 17 would be one of our fav verses where the Psalmist exclaims "How precious also are thy thoughts unto me, O God!  How great is the sum of them!"  Jeanie's fav verse, by the way, is verse fourteen which says, " ... I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well."  

God Knows, God Sees:  An old childhood song I once sang rings so true: "He sees what we do, He hears what we say, My God is watching all the time, time, time; He sees what we do, He hears what we say, My God is watching all the time."  The song I sang was a variation of "Writing All the Time" from Hymnary.org.

O Lord, You Know Me!  From Psalm139:1-4:  Here is a little action rhyme I wrote for little ones some years ago:

O Lord, You Know Me!

O Lord, you know me!  (Point up; then to yourself.)

You know when I sit; (Sit.)

You know when I stand.  (Stand.)

Even my thoughts you understand.  (Hands to head.)

O Lord, you know me!  (Point up; then to yourself.)

You know when I go out; (Walk in place.)

You know when I'm in bed.  (Place hands together next to one cheek.)

You know every word before it's said.  (Touch mouth.)

O Lord, you know me completely! (Point up; then to yourself.)

                                                                                                          LEP

(Shining Star Publications. C. 1998)

God Sees a Black Ant:  Mr. John Fannan, an older Scotchman, from my childhood each week in Sunday School would repeat this little thought:  "God sees a black ant on a black rock on a black night, and God sees you."  Perhaps verses eleven and twelve may have been two of his favorites.  Listen: "If I say surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me.  Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the night shineth as the day: the darkness and light are both alike to thee."    

A Celebration of Life Psalm:  If you need a verse that celebrates life this Psalm is the one to quote for the beautiful verse 14 expresses it so perfectly:  "I will praise thee: for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvelous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well (very well)."   By the way this is the only verse where "praise" is used in this Psalm.  

A Psalm Song Video/Story of "Search Me O God":  The well-known hymn "Search Me O God" is based on Psalm 139:23-24 which reads: "Search me, O God and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting."  It was written by a man named James Edwin Orr.  See images of Orr here: imgurl:https://th.bing.com/th/id/OIP.CKEqugNFCahQXnNJa-PjYwHaIO?rs=1&pid=ImgDetMain - Search

Listen to this kids' song video complete with children's photographs.  Click here. Bing Videos

Sing it with your children, or grands.  Ask children if the words of Orr's song exactly match the words of Scripture?

Willmington Wraps It Up:  "Psalm 139: God's Knowledge, Presence n' Power"

In his informative book Willmington's Survey of the Old Testament (Victor Books, c.1987, p.278-273) Harold L. Willmington explains that Psalm 139 divides nicely into four sections: Vv. 1-6 "Lord, You Know Me;" Vv. 7-12 "Lord, You are with me;" Vv.13-18 "Lord, You Created me;" and Vvs.19-24 "Lord Your cause is my cause."  Additionally, he notes that verses 23-24 David ends with six imperatives (calls for action): "Search me, know my heart, try me, know my thoughts, see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." 

A Challenge:  Discover Psalm 139's ABCs!

If you want to really to dig into Psalm 139 go through it over and over putting together its words into ABC order.  To do this means having a pencil, and notebook in hand searching through all twenty-four verses for a particular letter and writing down the words beginning with that letter.  For example, you'll find "K" has 6 words. Besides notice the questions, exclamations, and Selahs as well.   Reading through the Psalm so many times brings out words and ideas you did not notice before.  If you have time, try it it's guaranteed to familiarize yourself with this grand Psalm in an intimate way! 

The Stat Mat:  View the Stats Mat here. Notice King David in the upper left corner of whom the superscription mentions before the Psalm: "To the chief musician, A Psalm of David."  Ps.139 is in the last section or Book V.  It has twenty-four verses.  One of its NT references can be found in Matthew 9:4. Find it!  See the word "Praise" that is quoted only once in the entire text.  View also the Latin word "omni."  What does it mean?  What do the words below mean?    Click on photo and view mat here: 

The Chat Mat:  Look at the Chat Mat pics.  Find the word "know" or its variations six times in the Psalm.  Read the little action rhyme "O Lord, You Know Me!"  See how the pics are popped out.  Share this with someone who has young children or grands.  Read about my old friend "Mr. John Fannan" and his little quote he would repeat every Sunday when I was a small girl. See the ant on the dark rock!  Be sure to listen to "Search Me O God" too!  Oh, do memorize this awesome Psalm.  Look at the mat below: click on it to make it larger!

Do you homeschool?  Make your own mats.  Let your kids contribute.  What else might you include on your mats?  What is your favorite verse(s)?      

Psalm Two: An Often-Quoted Psalm in the New Testament

Psalm Two:  An Often-Quoted Psalm in the New Testament

Did you know that Psalm two is often quoted in the New Testament?  Now, I really hadn't realized how many times Psalm two was referenced until I decided to search through the entire NT noting which Psalms were mentioned throughout its pages.  Right away Psalm Two seemed to stand out.  Not only was it in the gospels, but from Acts to Revelation as well.  To find out more let's dive into its Psalm Statistics.  

 

Psalm 2 Stats:  Book I:  Royal or Messianic Psalm: Psalm 2 Refs.: Acts 4:25-27: # of Verses: 12 (Click on photo to enlarge!)

First, Second Verses:  Its very first verse starts with a question:  "Why do the heathen (nations) rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?"   It's second verse reads, "The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together against his Anointed, saying ...." 

Final Verse:  "Kiss the Son, lest he be angry, and ye perish from the way, when his wrath be kindled but a little.  Blessed are all they that put their trust in him." 

 

Who Is the Heathen? Verse one asks why the heathen, or the nations are angry and imagine or plan trouble.  Verse two answers telling us that the kings of the earth and the rulers plan evil against the Lord and his anointed or the Messiah-Jesus.

Kings of Earth, &The Rulers:  These words were appropriate in the Psalmist's time, and like then they are "for such a time as this words" today!  Think about our country and others this very day.  Be ever discerning, and ever learning what is happening all around you.

 

A New Testament Ref to Read:  Mark 3:6 refers to Psalm 2:2. It says: "And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took counsel (plotted) with the Herodians against him that they might destroy him."  Who is him?  Jesus

     

An Acts Example to Check Out:  Turn to Acts 4 to read Acts 4 aloud and some key Acts verses.  Find out how Peter and John were treated by the rulers in their day.  What was their punishment for their being bold to proclaim the gospel and to heal in Jesus' name?

Highlight Psalm: 2:1-2!  Read and highlight Acts 4:25,26 which is almost all in caps in my Bible denoting it's being quoted from the OT.  The verses say:  "Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, WHY DID THE HEATHEN RAGE, AND THE PEOPLE IMAGINE VAIN THINGS?  THE KINGS OF THE EARTH STOOD UP, AND THE RULERS WERE GATHERED TOGETHER AGAINST HIS CHRIST."

   

A Challenge:  Search the NT Scriptures to uncover which Psalms are quoted by Jesus in the gospels, and by other NT writers.  Which ones are used the most?  What did you discover doing this?   Older kids can do this, while younger ones can count and look at a chart of your findings.  See to it they have a Bible with a center reference area or areas just below the verses.  Contrast versions with references, and those without them--show the children.  For example, I purchased a KJV girls' Bible, but sadly it had no references but did have a good dictionary-concordance.

   

Do begin early teaching your youngsters how to use the middle of the page reference area, or references below the verses.  It's a skill often neglected but pays great dividends seeing the continuity of the Scriptures!  Try it!  I have met so many Christians who desire only a few minutes of someone else's devotionals!  Acts 17:11 reminds us to: "search the scriptures daily." 

 

An Advocate for Truth: The "I Know God" Man

John Amanchukwu whose Nigerian surname means "I know God," is a writer, pastor, and advocate for truth who takes a stand against organizations/school systems that use materials that should never be read by youth comments regarding Psalm 2:1-3, 12 in his recent work Hoodwinked this way:  "In case you haven't been paying attention, this is where we are right now, The nations, the culture, and the elite among us--they're all raging against the Lord.  And many who claim the name of Christ are joining in through their affirmation of sin and celebration that breaks Heaven's heart. ...."  He continues, "... I hope you have chosen to take refuge in Him.  ... we need men and women who love the Lord to stand firmly for truth, to push back against lies, and to be willing to suffer for truth if need be."  (P.157) 

         

Bill Randles & His Psalm 2 Phrase

The late Pastor Bill Randles was an all-about-the-word-man who loved Scripture.  What a gifted godly preacher he was!  Often, he'd quote from Psalm 2 especially the phrase: "the kings of the earth and the rulers."  In fact, one of his last recorded sermons touches on it.

  

In addition, he wrote books and articles.  One article "The Fate of the Nations--Then and Now" ("Lighthouse Trails Research Journal"-Volume 1-Spring 2020) not only expounded on Psalm 9 but he concluded once more recalling "the kings of the earth and the rulers" from Psalm 2.  The Fate of the Nations—Then and Now (Psalm 9) - Lighthouse Trails Research Project

And we have only to look around us to see our current kings and rulers and their followers are much like those named in both Psalm 2 and 9.  The Bible, however, shows us that the Lord is our King of Kings, and Lord of Lords, who in the end will judge them.  Therefore, let us pray for those in authority, for our country, and for all of its leaders that some may turn and come to know the Lord Jesus.  May we recall Psalm 9:20 which states:  "Put them in fear, O LORD, that the nations may know themselves to be but men."

 

A PSALM Con-verse-sation:  Just how might one use the phrase "the kings of the earth, and the rulers" in a "con-verse-sation?"  If speaking with youth you might show current leaders' photos and discuss the fact that regardless of what they do like the elite of the Psalmist's Day in a future day all rulers will answer to the Lord of Lords, and King of Kings.  May we submit to the Lord's authority, and as Psalm 2:12 says, "... Blessed are all they that put their trust in him."

View the "Stat and Chat Mat Photos here:

Psalm Stat Mat:  Psalm Statistics:  Psalm 2, Book #, # of verses, type of Psalm, and so on.  Notice Psalm 2 has no superscription, but two Acts refs reveal its author and quotes directly from the OT.

Psalm Chat Mat Hints:  Conversation about the Psalm's contents, conclusions, and relevance to us today.  Here is the opportunity to have a book, photos, small item, mag article, booklet, map, etc. pertaining to the Psalm to share with your listeners.  If you have a homeschooling family or Christian classroom others can contribute drawings, or other articles.  Recall the teeny tiny present from Psalm 117 the shortest Psalm, or the flashlight from Psalm 119.  Also include at least one applicable NT reference!  Do notice the insert with the greater than symbol from Amanchukwu's cover that reminds us that God is greater than government! 

 

Penny's Favorite Saying!  Penny lived in Pilot Mountain, N.C. with a clear view of Pilot Mt.'s famed knob.  Always she was kind, consistent, and trustworthy.   As she grew older, she began to earnestly read her Bible.  At ninety-nine she joined me in reading Jeremiah as I wrote my blog lessons.   During each and every letter and phone call she'd repeat to me:  "The Lord's in charge!"  Yes, He is!  He's sovereign!  He reigns!  

Click on photos to enlarge!!!

                                

   

   

   

 

  

       

  

        

 

Psalm 119--A Maxi Psalm--176 Verses

Psalm 119--A Maxi Psalm-- The Longest Psalm with 176 Verses!

What a Psalm!  From a mini-Psalm-- the two-verse Psalm 117-- to a maxi-Psalm of one-hundred-and seventy-six verses with twenty-two stanzas all beginning with successive Hebrew letters this Psalm could keep one busy for weeks with its many verses and topics.  

This ABC Psalm or acrostic Psalm starts with Aleph and ends with Tau.  Some Bibles even include the Hebrew symbol beside the letters.  Each part is eight verses in length. How perfect it is for learning the eight times table!

This Psalm has one grand theme that is in almost every verse--but 84, 121, and 122-- centers round "The Word of God!"  Throughout its entire length it uses seven or eight synonyms for the Word of God.  In this article we'll use these seven synonyms: law, word, statues, precepts, judgments, testimonies, and commandments.   

Our story for Psalm 119 revolves around "The Psalm Lady"--Jeanie of Okahumpka.  If you read the intro lesson, you'll recall she had a plan to memorize all of Psalm 119.  Though I never learned if she actually accomplished her mission, one thing I know she inspired me to memorize more of the word!  On top of all her memorization aspirations she was also a strong prayer warrior!

While digging into the Psalms I began to use round woven placemats to visualize these Psalms--called "The Stat Mats"-- which contain the basic statistics of a particular Psalm: its superscription, its book location, its number of verses, its Selah's, its history, and so on.  After the Stat Mats came "The Chat Mats."  Chat Mats have objects, and verses, and interesting photos and pictures that make the Psalm con-verse-sations come alive.  Anyone can make them and use them.  This one has a new addition to its Chat Mat, that is a Kid Extension which focuses in on a particular part of the Chat Mat.

Remember in order to view either type of mat up close click on the photograph and you will be able to see a larger version of it.

Psalm 119 presents older and younger people with great opportunities to increase Biblical knowledge, vocabulary, and math skills at every turn. Besides, what a variety of verses to memorize as well.   As a long-time educator, mother, and grandmother I can't say enough about early memorization of as much Scripture as possible!!  That is the legacy you can leave with your children or grandchildren that can't be taken away from them--for as Psalm 119:11 tells us "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."  Should every Bible be banned it cannot be removed from one's heart.  Ditto this for singing the Psalms as well. 

Stat Mat:  Psalm 119: 22 parts: 176 Vvs.: Book V: (Teach kids Roman numerals!): 8Xs table (8, 16, 24 etc.): acrostic (Define!), and A to Z (Aleph-Tau).  Notice the music note background.  

Chat Mat n' Kids' Extension  

The yellow mat begins at the right with Aleph (Hebrew reads right to left; English left to right.) and next is Beth.  Then it skips to Mem and Nun and Tau.  Also notice the magnifying glass, honey jar, and red flashlight on the left while on the right is the Trinitarian Bible Society Colourbook 14 with its Ps.119:105 train picture.  Also, this neat little color book is entitled "The Word of God"--the theme of Ps.119!  This The Word of God coloring book is part of a larger series of color books that both children and adults can use.  Order books here:      Series 2 Coloring Book։ The Word of God [CB2] - Trinitarian Bible Society - USA (tbsbibles.org)

In the center circle of the mat is a pic of a Bible scroll and a Bible which is the focus of our psalm. See the seven synonyms arranged from the three-letter "law" to the twelve letter "commandments" and the other five in between.  The youngest can count the letters or match other word cards to them.  By the way "thy law" is the synonym most often mentioned in the text. 

A Psalm 119:105 Story:  Many years ago, when I was in junior high school, I joined a girls' club known as "Pioneer Girls."  Complete with uniforms, a guidebook, and badges it was saturated with Scripture memorization as a part of every activity. Our guides were godly mentors, and each of us girls were also assigned a special older lady that wrote to, prayed for, and met with us.  It was in Pioneer Girls where I found some wonderful young Christian friends.  Two of our key verses were Psalm 119:11 and 105 which I've never forgotten. Surely, I can attest to this club's major impact on my young life.  Always I am thankful for the gospel verses so easily memorized then.  Timothy reminds us that from a child one can know the Holy Scriptures which are able to make one wise unto salvation. 

A Psalm 119 Color Book Cover and Page:  Its train cover picture reminded me of some Swiss trains on which our family traveled through both winding alpine tunnels, and across some very high mountain bridges.  It also reminded me of the brightly lit Austrian silver mine carts we took inside some inky dark underground passages.  For as Psalm 119:105 tells us God's word will guide us and provide light for our way.   

The Psalm 119 Psalm Stanza or Section Names include:  Aleph, Beth, Gimel, Daleth, He, Vau, Zain, Cheth, Teth, Jod, Caph, Lamed, Mem, Nun, Samech, Ain, Pe, Tzaddi, Koph, Resh, Schin, and Tau.  How many sections are in Ps. 119?  How many letters are in the Hebrew Alphabet?  In our Alphabet?  What section is first? last?  How many verses are in each part?  Do number the sections in your Bible. 

Chat Mat Stanzas: Here are the sections highlighted on our Chat Mat:  Aleph, Beth, Mem, Nun, and Tau. 

Aleph:  Psalm 119 begins with Aleph.  Its first three verses are a special introduction to the whole Psalm. Two of verses begin with "Blessed" or "Happy."  What is the last verse in Aleph?  

Beth:  After Aleph is Beth.  Once again it has eight verses altogether.  It begins with a question.  What is it? Beth has a very famous Ps. 119 verse--verse 11.  It reads: "Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee."  What is the "Word of God" synonym in this verse? "Thy word."  Do memorize this verse!! 

Mem:  Now we'll skip ahead to stanza thirteen or Mem.  This section has two "how" verses which incidentally I used as valentine verses that I made for our granddaughters.  Especially I like Mem's first verse: "'O how I love thy law, it is my meditation all the day."  By it on the Chat Mat is a small heart for love--see how the verse is used in the mat extension.

O How I Love!  Tune: "Brother John" 

O how I love, O how I love,

Love thy law, love thy law,                                                              

It's my meditation, it's my meditation,

All the day, all the day!

Motions:  Line 1; Form heart with index fingers, and thumbs.  Line 2; Make a hand scroll.  Hold hands with palms up and slide four right hand fingers under left hand fingers; raise thumbs.  Line 3:  Tap head with both hands.  Line 4: Raise hands; sway.  When finished repeat verse aloud!

Make sure kids/adults alike understand what true meditation involves-- thinking and turning words over in one's mind and not chanting and emptying it. For more read this brief but especially helpful article.

ABC: Bible Meditation for Me!: M Is for Muse!    Learn to Discern Granny: ABC: Bible Meditation for Me!: M Is for Muse! (whputnam00.blogspot.com)

A second Mem verse to converse about is:  Psalm119:103:  "How sweet are thy words unto my taste! yea, sweeter than honey to my mouth."  Taste some honey--discuss words.  Can you discover another Psalm 34 verse that talks about the word "taste?"  What is at the end of both sections of this verse as well as verse one?  Exactly, an exclamation mark.  How then should we read these verses?   

Nun:  The very first verse of the Nun section is the Pioneer Girl Club verse: Ps. 119:105 which reads: "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path."   How special to have this verse featured on the cover of the Trinitarian Bible Society Scripture color book.  View the page I colored and cut apart.   Before you leave Nun do repeat the verse, sing it, color it, and discuss it.  Listen to the verse sung here:  Bing Videos

Tau:  Ps.119 ends with Tau Passage. Do take apart this prayer stanza two verses at a time.  Look for its "let" lines, its "lips/tongue" lines, its "I" lines, and lastly its "let" and its final line!   In verses 169/170 the psalmist cries "Let my cry come before thee...."  and "Let my supplication (request) come before thee ...."  These cries and requests ask the Lord "give me understanding" and deliver me" followed by "according to thy word."  Next in verses 171/172 it says: "My lips shall utter praise ...." and "My tongue shall speak of thy word."  In 173/174 The writer says: "I have chosen thy precepts.... " and "I have longed for thy salvation."  Finally, in verses 175 he asks the Lord to: "let me live and I'll praise you, and let thy judgments help me."   In v/176 "I've gone astray like a lost sheep, but I do not forget thy commandments."  May these lines be our prayer as well.  How we need these reminders like this powerful psalm in this mixed-up world."  May we remember we have a Shepherd the Lord Jesus to guide us.

How I would challenge you to set aside a period of weeks to ponder each and every stanza in this amazing maxi-Psalm, and may you be blessed as you do!  Perhaps, your goal, may be to memorize one key verse from each of its twenty-two sections!              

           

             

  

   

       Always click on the photographs to make them much larger!

A Mighty Mini Psalm-Psalm 117

A Mighty Mini Psalm-Psalm 117   

Have you read the mini psalm--Psalm 117-- that begins with an "O," has thirty-three words in all, and is referenced by Paul in Romans?  Do you recall it?  It's a distinctive psalm for several reasons.  Take the quiz below to find out!

Write true or false after the statement.

1.  Psalm 117 is the shortest Psalm in the Psalter.  

2.  Psalm 117 is part of the group of Psalms known as the "Holler Psalms." 

3.  Psalm 117 has only three verses.  

4.  Psalm 117 is the middle chapter of the KJV Bible.  

5. Psalm 117 is quoted by Paul in Romans 3.  

6. Psalm 117 has 35 more Psalms after it.  

7. Psalm 117 has 33 words in it.   

8. Psalm 117 is part of Book V of the Psalms.   

9.  Psalm 117 has an important message for Gentiles.

10.  Psalm 117 is recited on some Jewish holy days.  

Find answers at the end. 

Psalm 117 Stats:  Book V:  # of verses: two: A Hallel Psalm: Shortest Psalm:  Shortest Chapter in Bible: Middle Chapter of the Bible 

 

First Verse:  "O PRAISE the LORD, all ye nations (Gentiles*): praise him, all ye people." 

*  Gentile (or its plural) refers to people or nations other than Israel. 

Final Verse:  "For his merciful kindness (loving-kindness) is great toward us: and the truth of the LORD endureth for ever.  Praise ye the LORD."  

Notice in this Psalm that there is a call, a cause, and a conclusion.  The verses: a. "For his loving-kindness and ... truth that lasts forever ..."; b. "Praise the LORD all nations, ... people; ..." c. Praise ye the LORD.  Which part is the call, the cause, and the conclusion? (Willmington's Survey of the OT p.273; see below!) 

Answers: The call: b.  Praise the LORD... The cause: a. for his merciful kindness ... truth The conclusion: PYTL.  By the way I like to write "Praise the Lord." as PTL and "Praise ye the Lord." as PYTL.  

The Story:  "The Draw-Bridge Lady" or "The Praise the Lord Lady!"   

Many years ago, a very happy older lady would occasionally visit our church during our Sunday night gospel service.  While I can picture what she looked like these many years later I can't recall her name, so because her family operated a draw bridge from Longport, NJ to the nearby city of Ocean City, I will call her "The Draw-bridge Lady."

In our PB assembly* men were free to say aloud a hearty "Amen!"  But ladies did not, they stayed silent.  So, when the "Draw-bridge Lady a.k.a. The Praise the Lord Lady" came it wasn't long before we heard some passionate "Praise the Lords " from wherever she was seated. For this sweet lady just could not contain herself--she had to praise the Lord.

*Plymouth Brethren

As a young girl this did not escape my notice.  Ditto that for the jolly bus driver Razzi dad's special bus driver friend.   And as I grew oh the joy, I found in meeting ladies just like this dear lady who would say aloud, "Thank-you Jesus! or Praise the Lord!'  

 

Psalm 117, as some have said, may be short, but big things often come in small packages.  In Willmington's Survey of the Old Testament (p.273) he devotes a whole page titled: "Psalm 117: A Short Psalm with a Big Message." Why?  Well, for starters as the shortest Psalm it has this distinction--it is the only Psalm especially written for Gentiles in the entire 150 chapters of the book of Psalms.  

While it may be mini, it has a message that the Apostle Paul would quote in the book of Romans as well!  What was the important message?  It was that the Gentiles too would be part of the family of the Lord.  Yes, the good news of the Messiah was for them as well.  For Romans 3:15 says, "And again, PRAISE THE LORD, ALL YE GENTILES: AND LAUD HIM ALL YE PEOPLE."  (Ps.117:2)   A note in my Bible* on p.1757 explains that Paul quotes from the Psalms, the Law, and the Prophets.  Check it out in your Bible.  Oh, and one other point "Laud" means to praise or exalt.  Always remember too the Gentiles did not replace or supersede God's Jewish people!

*King James Study Bible, Thomas Nelson, 1986 

View this brief video:  "What Is the Meaning of LAUD?"  Click to see here: Bing Videos   A second informative great video is: Laud Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

Do point out that this shortest of all Psalms is known as the "Laudate Dominium" which in Latin means "Praise the Lord!  Challenge:  What musician wrote a choral piece of music known as "Laudate Dominium?"

Kids' Project:  This little Psalm is the perfect con-verse-sation starter. Discuss how unique this little psalm is yet how big is the message.  Include on your mat a teensy package, and a little Bible such as the key chain one photographed here.  Beside the mat, if you have one, lay this Lighthouse Trails booklet: Truth or Consequences.  In the booklet author Warren B. Smith highlights Ps.117:1 twice!  Its conclusion reads: "Truth or consequences.  The stakes are high, but one thing is for sure: Truth prevails in the end because Jesus Christ is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6) and His truth endures forever (Psalm 117:1-2)."  Order the booklet here:  NEW BOOKLET - Truth or Consequences - Lighthouse Trails Research Project

Especially for Lil' Kids:

Have younger kids count to 117.  Have them count the words in the KJV version.  How many did they find?  Read aloud the "two" verses.  Can they find a three verse Psalm?  Turn to the NT and find Romans 15:11!  Learn a new word!  "Laud!"  Take a "Laud Pause."  Memorize it!      

Let's take a 'Laud Pause!"  

I laud, you laud, we all 

laud the Lord.  Praise the Lord!

Romans 15:11: "Praise the LORD

all ye Gentiles, and laud him, all 

ye people!"

Glory, Laud, & Honor!

Glory laud, and honor to the Lord proclaim,

Bowing down before him, bless his holy name.

Give him praise and glory as creator of all things,

Worship and adore him, crown him King of Kings!

                                                                         LEP

Actions:  Point up; bow down on knees, lift hands,

lift voice at end. 

 

Answers: 1. T   2. F   3.  F 4. T   5. T   6. F   7. T   8. T   9. T 10. T. 

Stat/Chat Mat Combo:  Since this is such a short Psalm I am using one mat.  View it noting its statistics and its distinctives.  See the mini package.  Research its Romans Ref.  Look up "The Truth Booklet."      

 Coming Soon! Look for the "Amazing Maxi ABC Psalm: Psalm 119" next! 

Some Psalm Con-verse-sations! Psalm Lessons/Verses/Stories/Projects for Adults/Kids

Some Psalm Con-verse-sations!  

Psalm Lessons for Big n' Little Kids 

In this chaotic world what a treasure the Book of the Psalms is from its first chapter right up to its final one.  In fact, to begin with Psalm One or "The Preface Psalm" is to find oneself asking which path of life am I on?  Whose side do I stand with?  In whose words do I delight?  In whose words will I meditate?  Truly, Psalm 1 is a "For Such a Time as This Psalm." 

The Introduction:  How much do you know about the Psalms?  Take the quiz.   

The Psalm Quiz:  Circle the correct answer.

1.  The book of Psalms is found in the OT or NT?

2.  The word Psalms means "book of promises" or "book of praises?"

3.  The book of Psalms is the 19th or 20th book of the Bible?  

4.  The first and last Psalms each have five or six verses?

5.  The shortest Psalm is Psalm 100 or Psalm 117?

6.  There are five or six books within the Psalms.

7.  The correct abbreviation for one Psalm is Ps. or Pss.? 

8.  An abbreviation for more than one Psalm is Ps. or Pss.?

9.   The book before the Psalms is Proverbs or Job?

10.  A note above a Psalm is called a subscription or superscription?

11.  The book that isn't part of the books of Wisdom is Jeremiah or Psalms?

12.  The person who isn't a Psalm author is King David or Samuel?

Find the answers to the quiz at the end of the lesson. 

Intro to the Psalms for Kids:  

Use activities suitable to the age of your group!  These lessons are brim full of learning all sorts of terms and include lots of early math skills as well.  e.g.  Count by tens to Psalm 150.  Or count the books in the OT; which one is the Psalms?  Or learn a word like abbreviation!  e.g.  Know the abbreviation for Psalm and Psalms.  

1.  Take a look at the word Psalm. If you cross off the "Ps", what word do you find?  What does it mean?  If you cross off just the "s", what word do you see?  What does it mean?

2.  How many letters does Psalm have?  What letter is quiet or silent?  What sound do you hear at the beginning?  What sound do you hear at the end?  How do you pronounce it? 

3.  Where in the Bible is the Book of Psalms?  The OT or NT?  Turn to the Table of Contents in your Bible.  Find the word Old Testament.  Highlight or circle it.  Find the book of Psalms.  Highlight or circle it.

4.  What OT Book is before the Psalms?  after it?  Dot them.  

5.  What number is the book of Psalms? Use a pencil/pen tip beginning with Genesis and count down to the Psalms?  What book # did you get?   If you wish write 1-19 before each book. 

6.  In the OT the Psalms is part of the five books of Poetry: Job, Psalms, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon.  Make a box around these five books.

5.  What do all Bible book names begin with?  If you don't want to write out the name of a Bible book, we use an abbreviation.  That makes less writing.  Psalm is Ps. and Psalms is Pss.

6.  There are many ways to sort out the Psalms.  Sometimes, I give personal names as "Mom's Psalm Verse" or "The Bridge Lady's Psalm" and so on.  Above most Psalm words describing the psalm are known as the "Superscription."  However, sometimes some psalms don't have one while others have lengthy ones.  

7.  The Psalms have different writers as David, Solomon, Asaph, and the Sons of Korah.  and some Psalms don't mention who wrote them at all.  e.g. King David has 73 Psalms that he wrote. 

Tools to Use:

1.  Using a large white board is a great tool for a teacher to use whether with older folks or younger ones.  Kids would enjoy having their own individual white boards to hold up.

2.  Each child should have a large size KJV Bible if very young.

3.  For adult study I compile all my KJV and NKJ Bibles to use.  I also use a number of other resources, and online sources as well.  Click on the videos/online sites in the lessons for easy to access psalm resources! 

Answers to Quiz:  1. OT 2. Book of Praises 3. 19th 4. six 5. 117 6. six 7. Ps. 8. Pss. 9. Proverbs 10. superscription 11. Jeremiah 12. Samuel 

Be sure to click on all photographs to enlarge them! 

Lesson 1:  Psalm 1 and Psalm 150- The First and Last Psalms

Psalm One Stats:  Book I:  Psalm 1-41 # of Vv. 6  Superscription: None   In each Psalm lesson the abbreviation for one verse is V. whereas the abbreviation for more than one verse is Vv.!       

First Verse:  Psalm 1:1:   "Blessed (happy) is the man that walked not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful."

Last Verse:  Psalm 1:6:  "For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish."

Psalm One: Unscramble Vocabulary Words:

Cross off word as you find them:  blessed--walketh--delight--scornful--ungodly--sinners--prosper--perish--righteous-chaff--meditate-knoweth       

1,  ethwalk   2.  debless   3.  lighted   4. dimetate   5.  godlyun   6.  affch    7.  sinnres   8.  perpros

9.  teousright   10.  fulscorn   11. ishper   12.  ethknow 

Answers:  At end of lesson.

Search It: Dot the Not, and the Nors:  Psalm 1:1 has three things a blessed or happy man should not do:  walk in the counsel or advice of the ungodly, stand in the way of sinners, or sit or hang out with the scornful or mockers.  Underline the three verbs.  Which three words describe the kinds of people one should avoid? 

Delightful Day n' Night Meditation:  Psalm 1:2 declares the happy man will delight or take pleasure in reading and meditating in God's word or law.  I like that word "delight" don't you?  Kids/adults will enjoy making a simple "Delight" illustration with outline letters.  Inside the uppercase D make a smiling person.  In the rest of the lowercase letters make happy faces.  Then, check out these five Ps.119:24,77,92,143, and 174 "delight" verses!  

Psalm 1: Verses One and Two 

Vv. one and two are verses for you to write, recite, and delight in!

So let's do it!  Here are the Vvs.  "Blessed is the man that walked not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.  But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and his law doth he meditate day and night."    

Discuss It: By the way exactly what is meditation?  Click on this Learn to Discern Granny page: for a description of Bible meditation as opposed to worldly meditation for is filling one's mind, and the other is emptying one's mind.  Which kind should one not do?  Which is scriptural? 

Learn to Discern Granny: ABC: Bible Meditation for Me!: B Is for Breath! (whputnam00.blogspot.com)  This article "ABC: Bible Meditation for Me!: B Is for Breath!" is part of a series.  See how it relates to Ps.150!!

Draw It:  The righteous man is like a well-watered tree that has much fruit on it, and whose leaves don't shrivel or wither up.  On the other hand, the ungodly man is like the seed leftovers called chaff that the wind blows away.  Draw tree, and dots or bits of chaff flying away in the breeze.  Say which are you like?

Tell It!  The Which Path or Road Psalm n' The Broad n' Narrow Road Portrait:    

The date was the last Saturday in January in the mid 1950s. The event was the annual Sunday School Program held in the "Red Room" at the Gospel Hall Home* in Longport, New Jersey. The children in the program were the Chelsea Heights, NJ Sunday School kids that met every week at 1PM Sunday with classes in every room of our little bungalow.  It was there in our home led by my parents that we'd carefully practiced our verses, psalms, and pieces.  

It was on this special night that dad would hire a bus to take us kids, parents, and visitors down to Longport.  Eagerly we all awaited that evening when the bus would pull up in front of our home.  Often its driver would be dad's jolly Christian friend and co-worker Razzi.

Onto the bus would be loaded boxes of goodies especially purchased and prepared for each child. In the boxes were white tissue paper wrapped gifts with red gummed name stickers on them.  Inside were Bibles, Christian books, or Bible verse wall texts.  Besides these Sunday School gifts there were personal gifts for each youngster -- a small toy, color book, or other like gifts.  Loaded onto the bus as well were boxes of homemade cookies and brownies plus other cartons of program props and signs.  

By the time the bus was ready kids, and their parents and visitors began appearing all dressed in their very best.  Once all were on board dad would pray, and off we'd go on the half hour ride to the end of the island near the ocean at Longport.  Here everyone would troop off the bus and up the steps into the Home.  Soon the red meeting room was packed to the gills, and the program would begin.  Excitement ran high for at the end all would receive the gifts and refreshments. But before the food could be eaten, or the gifts opened the children would say their pieces, and verses.  Afterwards a visiting preacher would give a clear gospel message.         

It was on a night like this that I stood before the audience to recite Psalm 1--just six verses--but verses so pivotal they would make a lasting impression and impact on my life.  For you see down in the Home's dark basement library where I often played hung a portrait of the board way, and the narrow way taken from the gospels, much like the roads named in Psalm one.  And whenever I looked at that portrait it gave me pause.  So along with the Psalms learned, the Scriptures memorized, and the forever remembered painting soon thereafter I at nine in the Home's new, but not red, airy auditorium, trusted Jesus as my Savior and now was on the path known as the narrow way-the Jesus way!

*Home for Aged Christians known as the Longport Gospel Hall Home that had a church also meeting there.             

The "Two Paths to Consider" Chart:  On P. 911 The Word in Life Study Bible (Thomas Nelson, Inc. 1993,1996) has a terrific chart that sums up Psalm one with its opposite choices each of us must make--which way should we go, whom should we hang out with, and what is the way to have a happy life.    

Which Path Will You Choose? Psalm Con-verse-sation:  Using this photo from above Bible chart discuss with your listeners the two ways named in Psalm one.  Ask which way or path is the best choice? Now. the portrait I viewed in that old library was indeed graphic, but one not forgotten by me to this day.  Truly a picture, as the old saying goes, is worth more than a thousand words.  Such old images still exist online, and if you wish share one with your listeners. 

Psalm One Stat Mat:  Use a table mat, music sticker background, and various Psalm statistics strips to describe the number of verses, book number of Psalm, and so on.  See photo below.   Recall that there are five major books in the Psalms:  Book I: Psalm 1-41; Book II: 42-72; Book III: 73-89; Book IV: 90-106; and Book V: 107-150.  These Books or divisions are indicated with Roman Numerals.  Lighthouse Trails carries a "Books of the Bible" Color book (Colouring Book No.4 from the Trinitarian Bible Society of London.)  Order it here: 

Books of the Bible Coloring Book 4 - Outline Texts (lighthousetrails.com)

Psalm One Chat Mat:  Use a second mat to show parts of the Psalm, and things you'd like the listener to recall.  The Verse Conversation or Con-verse-sation you will share will be the verse two verses plus the chart from the The Word IN Life Bible (see photo).

Answers: 1. walketh 2. blessed 3. delight 4. meditate 5. ungodly 6. chaff 7. sinners 8. prosper 9. righteous 10. scornful 11. perish 12. knoweth

     

Psalm 150 Stats:  The Last Psalm:  Book V: Ps.107-150   # of Verses: 6   Superscription:  none:  The Final Hallel Psalm 

First Verse:  "Praise ye the LORD.  Praise God in his sanctuary:  praise him in the firmament of this power."

Final Verse:  "Let everything that hath breath praise the LORD, Praise ye the LORD."  

The Doxology Psalm:  Known as "The Doxology Psalm" this 150th. Psalm is a resounding finish to the entire Psalter.  

What's a Doxology?  Meriam Webster says a doxology is a liturgical expression of praise to God. Often  many sing "Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow" every week at their church.  In my denomination this song wasn't used like this, but at the end of celebrations often we'd all stand and enthusiastically sing it.  Do you sing it at your church?  What word is sung at the very end?  

Kids' Psalm 150 Investigation:  Prepare a sheet of activities revolving round counting/examining various parts of the Psalm.  Let kids find Psalm 150.  Write the page number when found.  Next, count by 10s to reach 150.  

Circle all the "praise words." How many did you find.  Do the same for "praise him." How many times does "praise" occur in every verse?  Count the specific instruments.  How many do you notice?  Which isn't an instrument?  Which instrument is named twice?  

Find the four doxologies after Book I-IV.  Write the Roman Numerals I-V.  Turn to each scripture doxology given here compare and what does each one have?   Book I: Psalm 41:13; Book II: Psalm 72:18-20; Book III: Psalm 89:52; Book IV: Psalm 106:48; and Book V: Psalm 150. 

Book I: Psalm 41:13 "Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting, and to everlasting.  Amen and Amen."

Book II:  Psalm 72:18-20 Blessed be the LORD God of Israel, who only doeth wondrous things.  And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen and Amen.  The prayers of David the son of Jesse are ended."

Book III:  Psalm 89:52 "Blessed be the LORD for evermore.  Amen and Amen."

Book IV:  Psalm 106:48 "Blessed be the LORD God of Israel from everlasting to everlasting: and let all the people say, Amen.  Praise the LORD."

Book V:  The entire Psalm is the Doxology.    

Lastly, research the famous "Praise God from Whom All Blessings Flow" author, and story.  Older kids and adults hear the story here from Worship 101:  "The Doxology Hymn Story with Lyrics-The Story Behind the Hymn-Thomas Ken."  Click to listen: 

     The Doxology Hymn Story with Lyrics - Story Behind the Hymn - Thomas Ken (youtube.com)     

A Psalm Activity Poem to Enjoy 

Praise God in His Sanctuary!            

Praise God in his sanctuary, and under his firmament* wide,

Praise him in the morning when you are outside,

Praise him with instruments as a trumpet** loud.

Praise him everybody; join our praise crowd.

Praise him, O, praise him, to him your praises bring,

Praise him, O, praise him, worship the King!

                                                                                         LEP

"Let every thing that hath breath, praise the LORD.  

Praise ye the LORD!"  (Psalm 150:6)

* Firmament-heavens or expanse of sky.                                      

** Blow a toy trumpet.  Ring a hand bell.  

Shake a tambourine. Beat a drum.   Bang cymbals.

Psalm 150 Stat Mat Project:

Needed:  table place mat, music stickers, statistics as Ps. number, # of verses, # of Selahs, first/last verse references, vocabulary words as "doxology," Book # in which Psalm is found, and so on.

View Psalm 150 Photo here:

A mat such as this can be left on a table for a few days as a specific Psalm is studied, and other items can be added to it as each is studied.  Another example might be the sections or parts of a Psalm.  Even illustrations might be added: as pic of a Bible time instrument.  What other things will you add? 

Coming Next:  From this point on the lessons will be individual lessons each having a Stat Mat and a Chat Mat plus other relevant online resources.  The next lesson will be "A Mighty Mini Psalm" (Ps.117) This will be followed by a "A Not to Be Forgotten Maxi Psalm" (Ps.119) Don't miss them!