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Old Testament Field Guide

  1. Lesson One
    Getting Ready
    19 Activities
    |
    4 Assessments
  2. Lesson Two
    Geography and Religion
    11 Activities
    |
    3 Assessments
  3. Lesson Three
    Geopolitical History
    15 Activities
    |
    2 Assessments
  4. Lesson Four
    Ancient Near Eastern Sources
    11 Activities
  5. Lesson Five
    Impact of the Old Testament
    11 Activities
  6. Course Wrap-Up
    Course Completion
    1 Activity
    |
    1 Assessment

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Old Testament Field Guide Getting Ready In | The Psalms: Ancient Poetry
Lesson 1, Activity 9

In | The Psalms: Ancient Poetry

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The Psalms have been a tremendous source of comfort as well as conviction, insight and more over the centuries. They are among the most-read poems of all time. 

Scenario

Psalm 23 is right up there at the top of the list of popular Psalms:

The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. Psalm 23:1-3 (NIV)

The Psalms are full of familiar phrases including:

In the shadow of the Almighty. Psalm 91:1 (NIV)
You have searched me, LORD, and you know me. Psalm 139:1 (NIV)
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10 (NIV)
Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Psalm 37:4 (NIV)

Additionally, the Psalms were meant to be sung… and they have shown up in many songs over the years. Here are just a few examples:

40: U2
“I waited patiently for the LORD …” Psalm 40:1
“Biblical Songs” (Opus 99): Antonin Dvořák
“The LORD is my Shepherd …” Psalm 23:1
Nabucco (opera): Giuseppe Verdi
“By the waters of Babylon …” Psalm 137:1
Joy to the World: Friedrich Handel (attributed)
“Joy to the world …” Psalm 98:4 (adapted)