Monday, August 17, 2026

Come, Follow Me Family Study August 17–23: The Lord Is My Shepherd

Come, Follow Me Family Study

August 17–23: “The Lord Is My Shepherd”

Psalms 1–2; 8; 19–33; 40; 46

Weekly Theme: Jesus Christ Is Our Strength, Shepherd, and King

Weekly Truth: Jesus Christ is our sure place to turn. We can trust Him to guide us, forgive us, strengthen us, and give us peace.

The Psalms were an important part of ancient Israelite worship, and the Savior Himself often quoted them. They express experiences such as fear, sorrow, gratitude, repentance, worship, and trust in God—feelings that still make them meaningful to us today. This week's Come, Follow Me manual especially invites us to notice the repeated invitations to trust the Lord and the blessings He gives to those who do.

Study Together

Read the scriptures together, discover what they mean, and learn how they point to Jesus Christ. Each day's study includes a short summary, discussion questions, and simple invitations to help your family grow closer to the Savior.

Monday — Choose the Lord's Way

Reading: Psalms 1-2; 8
Focus Scripture: Psalm 1:3

Short Summary

Psalm 1 contrasts two ways of living. Those who delight in God's word are compared to a strong tree planted near water, while the wicked are compared to chaff that blows away.

Psalm 2 teaches that people and rulers may oppose the Lord and His Anointed, but they cannot stop God's purposes. The New Testament connects this psalm with Jesus Christ (Acts 4:25-28; 13:33).

Psalm 8 then turns our attention to God's greatness. The God who created the heavens also remembers and cares for His children.

Questions

What makes the tree in Psalm 1 strong and fruitful? What might help us become spiritually strong?
What does Psalm 2 teach us about the power of the Lord compared with the power of people?
Why do you think David was amazed that the Creator of the heavens cares about mankind?
What do these psalms teach us about who Jesus Christ is?

Christ-Centered Focus

Jesus Christ is the Lord's Anointed King and the Creator of the earth. Psalm 1 helps us see the strength that comes from choosing God's way, while Psalms 2 and 8 help us recognize the greatness and authority of Christ. We can build our lives around Him and His teachings.

Family Invitation

Choose one teaching of Jesus Christ that your family wants to follow more intentionally today.

Tuesday — Look to the Lord for Strength

Reading: Psalms 19-21
Focus Scripture: Psalm 20:7

Short Summary

Psalm 19 teaches that God's creations show His glory and that His word teaches, warns, and guides us. David values God's teachings more than gold and asks that both his words and the thoughts of his heart will be pleasing to the Lord.

Psalms 20-21 focus on trusting God's strength. Psalm 20 contrasts trusting in military power with trusting in the Lord. Psalm 21 praises God for the strength, salvation, and blessings He gives to the king.

Questions

What can we learn about God by looking at His creations?
Why might God's word be more valuable than something expensive like gold?
What are some things people rely on today instead of relying on God?
What would it look like for us to trust Jesus Christ more?

Christ-Centered Focus

Jesus Christ is our Creator and Redeemer. He gives us truth to guide our lives, and His power is greater than anything the world can offer. We can look to Him rather than relying only on our own strength.

Family Invitation

When you face something difficult today, quietly pray: “Jesus Christ, help me trust Thee.”

Wednesday — The Savior Who Suffered and Shepherds Us

Reading: Psalms 22-24
Focus Scripture: Psalm 23:4

Short Summary

Psalm 22 describes intense suffering, rejection, and a plea for God's help. Many details have powerful connections to the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Jesus quoted Psalm 22:1 on the cross, the people who mocked Him used language similar to Psalm 22:7-8, and John connects the dividing of His clothing with Psalm 22:18. The Come, Follow Me materials specifically identify Psalms 2 and 22 as psalms that teach about Jesus Christ.

Psalm 23 presents a very different picture: the Lord as a shepherd who provides, guides, protects, and remains near. Psalm 24 asks who can enter the Lord's holy place and teaches the importance of clean hands and a pure heart before ending with the triumphant arrival of the King of glory.

Questions

What details in Psalm 22 remind you of Jesus Christ?
What does a good shepherd do for his sheep? How does Jesus do those things for us?
What do you think “clean hands, and a pure heart” means for us?
How does Jesus Christ help us become clean enough to return to God's presence?

Christ-Centered Focus

These three psalms give us several beautiful pictures of Jesus Christ. He is the Savior who suffered for us, the Good Shepherd who cares for us, and the King of glory. Because of His Atonement, we can be cleansed and eventually return to God's presence.

Family Invitation

Look for one way today that the Good Shepherd has cared for you. Share what you noticed with your family.

Thursday — Teach Me Thy Way

Reading: Psalms 25-27
Focus Scripture: Psalm 27:14

Short Summary

Psalm 25 shows David repeatedly turning to God for guidance, forgiveness, protection, and help. He trusts that the Lord will teach those who are humble and asks God to show him the right way to go.

Psalm 26 is a prayer asking God to examine David's life. David describes his desire to live with integrity, avoid wickedness, and worship the Lord. Psalm 27 continues the theme of trust. David describes the Lord as his light, salvation, and strength. He seeks God's presence, asks Him for guidance, and ends by encouraging those who wait for the Lord to have courage, with the promise that the Lord will strengthen their hearts.

Questions

Why do we need the Lord to teach us His way?
What does it mean to have integrity?
What might change if we remembered that Jesus Christ is our “light” when we don't know what to do?
According to Psalm 27:14, what does the Lord promise to give those who courageously wait for Him?

Christ-Centered Focus

Jesus Christ doesn't only save us at the end of our lives—He can lead us now. He teaches us God's way, offers forgiveness when we sin, gives light when we need direction, and strengthens us as we wait upon the Lord.

Family Invitation

Before making choices today, practice asking: “What would Jesus Christ want me to do?”

Friday — Cry to the Lord

Reading: Psalms 28-30
Focus Scripture: Psalm 30:5

Short Summary

Psalm 28 begins with David crying to the Lord and asking Him to hear his prayer. Later, David praises God because He has heard him and describes the Lord as his strength and protection. Psalm 29 praises the Lord's great power. David uses powerful scenes from nature to help us understand the greatness of the Lord's voice, then teaches that the Lord gives His people strength and peace.

Psalm 30 praises God for deliverance, healing, and joy after sorrow. The Joseph Smith Translation of verse 5 adds an important truth: God's anger is kindled against the wicked, but when they repent, His anger is turned away and they receive His favor and life. The JST of verse 9 also clarifies that although the body returns to dust at death, the soul continues to praise God. The current Come, Follow Me lesson highlights Psalm 30:5 to teach that Jesus Christ can turn sadness into joy.

Questions

What do Psalms 28-30 teach us about where strength comes from?
What does the JST of Psalm 30:5 teach us about repentance?
What does “weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning” teach you about difficult times?
How has Jesus Christ brought joy or hope into your life?

Christ-Centered Focus

Jesus Christ makes repentance and forgiveness possible. He gives strength and peace, and because of His Resurrection, death is not the end. The sorrow we experience now will not last forever because of Him.

Family Invitation

Think of something Jesus Christ has done that brings you joy. Tell Him about it in your prayer tonight.

Saturday — Trust, Repent, and Rejoice

Reading: Psalms 31-33
Focus Scripture: Psalm 32:1

Short Summary

Psalm 31 shows David continuing to trust God through grief, danger, and opposition. He asks for mercy and deliverance and ends by encouraging God's people to love the Lord and continue hoping in Him. Jesus later used the words of Psalm 31:5 on the cross: “Into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46).

Psalm 32 teaches about the blessing of forgiveness. The JST of verse 1 clarifies that when sins are forgiven, they are not merely covered or hidden. David describes acknowledging his sin to God and receiving forgiveness. Psalm 33 then turns to joyful praise, teaching that God's word is right, His works are good, His purposes stand, and His power is greater than human strength.

Questions

What does it teach you about Jesus that He used the words of Psalm 31 while on the cross?
Why is honestly acknowledging our sins an important part of repentance?
How is being forgiven different from simply hiding something we've done wrong?
What reasons for praising God can you find in Psalm 33?

Christ-Centered Focus

Jesus Christ makes true forgiveness possible. We do not need to hide our sins from God. We can come honestly to the Savior, repent, and receive His mercy. Because He is trustworthy and powerful, we also have reason to rejoice and praise Him.

Family Invitation

Take a quiet moment to pray individually. Thank Heavenly Father for Jesus Christ and ask Him to help you recognize anything you need to change.

Sunday — Be Still and Trust the Lord

Reading: Psalms 40; 46
Focus Scripture: Psalm 46:10

Short Summary

Psalm 40 begins with David remembering how the Lord heard and delivered him. It teaches about trusting God and delighting in doing His will. Hebrews 10:5-10 applies Psalm 40:6-8 to Jesus Christ, who came to perfectly do the Father's will.

Psalm 46 teaches that God is a refuge and source of strength even when everything around us seems to be in turmoil. He is with His people and has power greater than the conflicts of the earth. The psalm ends with a simple invitation: “Be still, and know that I am God.” The current Come, Follow Me manual specifically encourages families to practice being still and consider how quiet moments can strengthen their relationship with God.

Questions

What does Psalm 40 teach us about Jesus Christ's willingness to do the Father's will?
What does it mean for God to be our refuge?
Why might being still help us remember and trust God?
When life feels noisy or confusing, what can help us turn our attention back to Jesus Christ?

Christ-Centered Focus

Jesus Christ perfectly submitted His will to the Father. He is also a sure refuge when life around us feels uncertain. We can stop, become still, remember who He is, and trust His power rather than allowing fear to control us.

Family Invitation

Spend one quiet minute together with no talking or distractions. Think about Jesus Christ and one reason you trust Him. Afterward, let anyone who wants to share what they thought about.

Teach Together

Continue your study with resources designed for families, teachers, and leaders. Use the memory scripture, object lesson, Christ-centered insights, and testimony to help teach with confidence and strengthen faith.

Memory Scripture

Psalm 46:10 — “Be still, and know that I am God.”

This short verse captures an important message running throughout the week's Psalms. We don't have to rely entirely on ourselves. We can stop, turn toward God, remember who He is, and trust Him. It is also the memory scripture emphasized for children in this week's Come, Follow Me resources.

Watch for Christ

Look for all the different ways the Psalms describe what the Lord is to us.

Watch for descriptions such as King, Shepherd, light, salvation, strength, refuge, help, shield, and Deliverer.

Each description teaches us something different about Jesus Christ. By the end of the week, you could make a family list titled “Who Is Jesus Christ to Me?”

Object Lesson

A Place to Stand

You need: a sturdy chair or step stool and a pillow or couch cushion.

Put the cushion on the floor and have someone carefully stand on it. Ask them how steady they feel. Then have them stand on the solid floor or another safe, firm surface.

Read the image David uses in Psalm 40:2: the Lord brought him out of the miry clay and “set my feet upon a rock.”

Explain that throughout this week's Psalms, people experience enemies, sorrow, sin, fear, uncertainty, and trouble. The answer isn't that those difficulties never happen. Again and again, the psalmists choose to trust the Lord in the middle of them.

Jesus Christ is our firm place to stand. When other things feel unstable, we can turn to Him, follow His teachings, repent when we sin, pray for His help, and trust His promises.

Finish by asking:

“What could we do this week to put our feet more firmly on Jesus Christ?”

This Week We Learned About Jesus Christ

He is our King. His authority and purposes cannot ultimately be overcome (Psalm 2).
He is the Good Shepherd. He guides, cares for, and remains with His people (Psalm 23).
He suffered for us. Psalm 22 contains powerful connections to His suffering and Crucifixion.
He is our Redeemer. Through Him we can repent and truly be forgiven (Psalms 19; 25; 32).
He gives strength and peace. We can trust Him instead of relying only on ourselves (Psalms 27-29; 46).
He perfectly did the Father's will. Psalm 40 points toward Christ's willing obedience and saving mission.

Closing Testimony

I testify that Jesus Christ is everything these Psalms teach us He is—our Shepherd, King, Redeemer, strength, refuge, and source of peace. He knows when we are afraid, when we have sinned, when we are waiting, and when we need direction. We can turn to Him in every part of our lives. As we learn to trust Him, follow His way, and become still enough to recognize His presence, He will lead us closer to Heavenly Father.

Live the Gospel

Learning the gospel changes us as we live it. Accept this week's invitation to apply what you've learned, follow the Savior, and discover the joy that comes from becoming more like Him.

This Week's Invitation: Turn to Christ

Each day, notice one moment when you need something the Psalms teach that Jesus Christ can give—guidance, forgiveness, strength, protection, peace, hope, or help.

Instead of immediately trying to handle it alone, turn to Him first. Say a prayer, remember a scripture from this week's reading, or simply become still for a moment and remember:

Jesus Christ is my Shepherd. He is my strength. He is my refuge. I can trust Him.

Psalms 1-46 CHAPTER SUMMARIES

PSALMS CHAPTER SUMMARIES

August 17-23 “The Lord is My Shepherd”

Psalms 1-2, 8, 19-33, 40, 46

Psalm 1

Psalm 1 contrasts two ways of living. Those who delight in God's word are pictured as a strong, fruitful tree, while the wicked are compared to chaff blown by the wind. Jesus Christ leads us in the way of righteousness, and as we follow Him and His teachings, He can help us become spiritually rooted, strong, and fruitful.

1-2 Delighting in the Law of the Lord

The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly or join with sinners and the scornful. Instead, he finds joy in the Lord's law and continually thinks about His teachings.
Words to Know:

Ungodly: those who do not follow God's ways.
Scornful: those who show disrespect or contempt.
Meditate: to think deeply and carefully about something.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ perfectly followed the will of His Father. As we learn God's word and choose His ways, we can learn to follow the Savior more faithfully.

3 Like a Tree by the Water

A person who delights in God's law is compared to a tree planted beside rivers of water. The tree produces fruit at the proper time, its leaves do not wither, and it prospers.
Background: In the dry climate of the biblical world, a tree planted near a dependable source of water had what it needed to remain healthy and fruitful. This helps us understand the picture of strength and stability in this verse.
Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ gives us the spiritual nourishment we need to grow and bear good fruit. This imagery connects beautifully with Christ's later teaching that those who abide in Him can “bring forth much fruit” (John 15:5).

4-5 The Wicked Are Like Chaff

The wicked are different from the fruitful tree. They are compared to chaff that is blown away by the wind. They will not stand in the judgment or have a place in the congregation of the righteous.
Words to Know:

Chaff: the light, unwanted covering separated from grain during harvesting. Because it was very light, the wind could easily blow it away.
Congregation: a gathering or group of people.

Background: Grain was often tossed into the air so the wind could carry away the lightweight chaff while the heavier, useful grain fell back to the ground. This creates a strong contrast with the firmly planted tree in verse 3.
Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ offers us something lasting and secure. As we build our lives upon Him and His teachings, He can help us become firmly rooted rather than easily carried away.

6 The Lord Knows the Way of the Righteous

The Lord knows the way of the righteous, while the way of the ungodly will perish.
Words to Know:

Perish: to be destroyed or come to an end.

Christ-Centered Thought: The Lord knows those who seek to follow Him. Jesus Christ leads us in the way of righteousness and invites us to follow the path that leads to eternal life.

Psalm 2

Psalm 2 teaches that people may oppose God and His Anointed One, but they cannot overthrow His purposes. Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the promised King with authority over all the earth. Rather than resisting Him, we are invited to serve Him, trust Him, and find blessing in following Him.

1-3 Nations Rebel Against the Lord

The nations are in an uproar, and their rulers join together against the Lord and His Anointed One. They want to free themselves from His rule.
Words to Know:

Heathen: nations or peoples; here, nations outside Israel.
Anointed: someone chosen and set apart by God. The Hebrew word is mashiach, or Messiah.

Christ-Centered Thought: The New Testament connects these verses with Jesus Christ and those who opposed Him (Acts 4:25-28). Jesus is the Lord's Anointed One. Even when people fight against Him and His work, they cannot stop God's purposes.

4-6 God Establishes His King

The Lord is not threatened by those who oppose Him. He responds to them in His anger and declares that He has established His King in Zion.
Words to Know:

Derision: ridicule or scorn.
Vex: to trouble, disturb, or terrify.
Sore displeasure: great anger.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ is the King appointed by God. Human opposition cannot take away His authority or prevent God's purposes from being fulfilled.

7-9 The Lord Declares His Son's Authority

The Lord declares the king to be His Son and promises to give him the nations as his inheritance. His authority will extend throughout the earth, and he will have power over those who oppose him.
Background: Psalm 2 is a royal psalm, meaning it speaks about a king of Israel. The New Testament also applies its words to Jesus Christ (Acts 13:33; Hebrews 1:5; 5:5), helping us see their greater fulfillment in Him.
Words to Know:

Begotten: brought forth or fathered. Verse 7 is quoted several times in the New Testament in reference to Jesus Christ.
Uttermost parts of the earth: the farthest reaches of the earth.

Christ-Centered Thought:
Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the promised King. His authority is not limited to one people or nation—it extends throughout the earth.

10-12 Serve the Lord and Trust Him

The kings and rulers of the earth are warned to be wise. They are told to serve the Lord with reverence and submit to Him rather than continue in rebellion. The psalm ends by declaring that those who put their trust in Him are blessed.
Words to Know:

Admonished: warned or instructed.
Kiss the Son: an expression of honoring or submitting to the king.

Christ-Centered Thought: Instead of resisting the Lord, we can choose to follow and trust Jesus Christ. He is our King, and there is safety and blessing in turning to Him.

Psalm 8

Psalm 8 marvels that the God who created the vast heavens also remembers and cares for His children. He has given mankind honor and responsibility within His creation. The New Testament helps us see an even greater fulfillment of this psalm in Jesus Christ, who humbled Himself to come to earth and is now crowned with glory and honor.

1-2 The Lord’s Name Is Excellent

David praises the Lord, declaring that His name is excellent throughout the earth and that His glory is above the heavens. He also says that God has established strength through babes and infants because of His enemies.
Words to Know:

Excellent: majestic, great, or worthy of praise.
Babes and sucklings: babies and very young children.
Avenger: someone who seeks revenge or punishment.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus later quotes verse 2 after children praise Him in the temple (Matthew 21:15-16). Their praise helps testify of who He is. Jesus Christ is worthy of the praise and honor described in this psalm.

3-4 God Remembers His Children

As David looks at the heavens—the moon and stars that God created—he wonders why mankind is important enough for God to remember and care for them.
Words to Know:

Mindful: remembering, noticing, or giving attention to.
Visitest: to come to, care for, or give attention to.

Christ-Centered Thought: The God who created the heavens also knows and cares for His children individually. Jesus Christ is one of the greatest demonstrations of that care: God sent His Son to save us and bring us back to Him.

5-8 Given Honor and Dominion

God has made mankind a little lower than the angels, crowned them with glory and honor, and given them dominion over the works of His hands. The animals of the land, birds of the air, and creatures of the sea are placed under their stewardship.
Words to Know:

Crowned: honored or given a position of dignity.
Dominion: authority or responsibility to rule over something.
Fowl: birds.

Background: These verses reflect the language of the Creation, when God gave Adam and Eve dominion over the animals and the earth (Genesis 1:26-28). Hebrews 2:6-9 later quotes Psalm 8:4-6 and applies these words to Jesus Christ, who was made “a little lower than the angels” and then “crowned with glory and honour.”
Christ-Centered Thought: Psalm 8 speaks about the honored place God has given mankind, but the New Testament also helps us see Jesus Christ in these verses. Jesus humbled Himself by coming to earth and experiencing mortality, and He is now crowned with glory and honor (Hebrews 2:9).

9 The Lord’s Name Is Excellent

David closes the psalm by repeating his opening praise: “O Lord our Lord, how excellent is thy name in all the earth!”
Christ-Centered Thought: Psalm 8 begins and ends with praise. As we recognize God’s creations, His care for His children, and the glory of Jesus Christ, we have many reasons to praise His name.

Psalm 19

Psalm 19 teaches that we can learn about God through both His creations and His word. His teachings give light, wisdom, and direction, while also helping us recognize where we need to change. Jesus Christ is our Creator and Redeemer, and through Him we can seek to have both our words and the thoughts of our hearts become acceptable before God.

1-6 The Heavens Declare God’s Glory

The heavens show the glory of God, and the sky displays His work. Day after day and night after night, creation continually reveals knowledge of Him without using words. David compares the sun to a bridegroom coming from his chamber and to a strong man joyfully running a race. It travels across the heavens, and nothing is hidden from its heat.
Words to Know:

Firmament: the sky or heavens.
Uttereth: speaks or pours forth.
Tabernacle: a tent or dwelling place.
Bridegroom: a man who is being married.

Christ-Centered Thought: God’s creations testify of His power and glory. Jesus Christ was the Creator under the direction of the Father (John 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:1-2). As we notice the beauty and order of creation, we can remember the Savior who helped create it.

7-11 The Lord’s Word Is Good

David describes the Lord’s law as perfect, His testimony as sure, His statutes as right, His commandment as pure, and His judgments as true and righteous. They can change the soul, make the simple wise, bring joy to the heart, and enlighten the eyes. David values the Lord’s teachings more than gold and describes them as sweeter than honey. They warn God’s servant, and keeping them brings great reward.
Words to Know:

Testimony: God’s instruction or revealed truth.
Statutes: laws or commands given by God.
Precepts: instructions or commandments.
Judgments: God’s decisions, laws, or ordinances.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ perfectly teaches and lives the truth of God. His words give us light and show us how to live. As we follow Him and His teachings, He can bring wisdom, joy, and spiritual strength into our lives.

12-14 A Prayer to Be Clean Before God

David recognizes that he may not see all of his own errors. He asks God to cleanse him from hidden faults and keep him from willful sins so they do not have power over him. He ends by asking that both his words and the thoughts of his heart will be acceptable to the Lord, whom he calls his strength and redeemer.
Words to Know:

Secret faults: wrongs or errors that are hidden or not recognized.
Presumptuous sins: deliberate or willful sins.
Dominion: power or control.

Christ-Centered Thought: David ends by calling the Lord his Redeemer. Jesus Christ can cleanse us from sin—including weaknesses we may struggle to recognize or overcome ourselves. Through Him, we can seek not only better actions but also a heart and mind that are pleasing to God.

Psalm 20

Psalm 20 is a prayer for the Lord to help, protect, and give victory to His anointed king. It contrasts trusting in military power with trusting in the name of the Lord. The psalm reminds us that our greatest confidence should not be in earthly strength but in God. Jesus Christ is the source of our salvation, and we can look to Him for help and place our trust in Him.

1-5 A Prayer for the Lord’s Help

David asks that the Lord will hear and protect His anointed in times of trouble, send him help, remember his offerings, grant the desires of his heart, and fulfill his plans. The psalm expresses rejoicing in God’s salvation and confidence that the Lord will answer.
Words to Know:

Sanctuary: a holy place dedicated to God.
Burnt sacrifice: an offering that was completely burned on the altar as an offering to God.
Banners: flags or standards raised as a sign of identity, celebration, or victory.

Christ-Centered Thought: These verses express confidence that help and salvation come from God. Jesus Christ invites us to turn to God in times of trouble and makes salvation possible for us. We can pray for His help and trust Him with the desires and concerns of our hearts.

6-8 Trust in the Lord, Not in Earthly Strength

David expresses confidence that the Lord saves His anointed and will answer him with His saving strength. Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but God’s people remember and trust in the name of the Lord. Those who depend on earthly strength fall, while those who trust the Lord rise and stand upright.
Words to Know:

Anointed: someone chosen and set apart for a special purpose. Israel’s kings were anointed with oil when they were appointed as king.
Chariots: horse-drawn vehicles used in battle and a significant source of military strength.

Christ-Centered Thought: Chariots and horses represented impressive human power, but David declares that his trust is in the Lord instead. We may be tempted to rely completely on our own abilities or other sources of security, but lasting salvation comes through Jesus Christ. He is the One in whom we can ultimately place our trust.

9 A Plea for the King to Be Heard

The psalm ends with a plea for the Lord to save and for the king to hear when the people call.
Christ-Centered Thought: The final verse returns to the central prayer of the psalm—a plea for salvation and an answer from the Lord. Through Jesus Christ, we can turn to God and seek His saving help.

Psalm 21

Psalm 21 praises God for giving the king strength, salvation, blessings, and honor. It also declares that those who oppose the Lord will not succeed. The psalm points our attention toward Jesus Christ, the perfect King, whose strength and power are greater than all opposition and who is worthy of our praise.

1-7 The King Rejoices in the Lord’s Strength

The king rejoices in the Lord’s strength and salvation. God has given him the desires of his heart, blessed him, placed a crown of gold on his head, and given him length of days. Through the Lord’s salvation, the king receives glory, honor, and majesty. The king trusts in the Lord, and through the mercy of the Most High he will not be moved.
Words to Know:

Preventest: to go before or meet someone. Here, the Lord meets the king with blessings. (also see footnote 3a)
Countenance: face or presence.
Most High: a title for God emphasizing His greatness and authority.

Christ-Centered Thought: Psalm 21 describes a king who receives strength, salvation, blessing, and honor from God. These descriptions can also point us toward Jesus Christ, the perfect King. Revelation describes Jesus as the “King of Kings” who is crowned with glory and honor (Revelation 19:12, 16).

8-12 The Lord Will Overcome His Enemies

The Lord will find those who hate Him and destroy His enemies in His anger. Their plans against Him will not succeed. He will cause them to turn back when He prepares His arrows against them.
Words to Know:

Devour: to consume or destroy.
Fruit: in verse 10, descendants or offspring.
Device: a plan or scheme.
Perform: here, to accomplish or carry out.

Christ-Centered Thought: These verses emphasize that those who oppose the Lord cannot ultimately succeed against Him. Jesus Christ has power over evil and will ultimately overcome all opposition to God’s work.

13 Praise the Lord’s Strength

David asks the Lord to be exalted in His own strength and declares that they will sing and praise His power.
Words to Know:
Exalted: lifted up, honored, or praised.
Christ-Centered Thought: The psalm ends where it began—with the Lord’s strength. Jesus Christ has all power, and we can praise Him for His strength, His salvation, and all that He has done for us.

Psalm 22

Psalm 22 describes intense suffering, rejection, and a desperate plea for God's help before turning toward praise and worldwide worship of the Lord. The New Testament directly connects several of its words and images with Jesus Christ, especially His Crucifixion. Rather than ending with suffering, the psalm looks forward to the Lord's rule being recognized throughout the earth and His works being declared to generations yet to come.

1-5 A Cry to God in Suffering

The psalm begins with a cry to God from someone who feels forsaken and far from His help. He calls to God day and night but receives no answer. Even in this distress, he remembers that God is holy and that his fathers trusted in the Lord, cried to Him, and were delivered.
Words to Know:

Forsaken: abandoned or left alone.
Inhabitest: dwells or remains among.
Confounded: put to shame or disappointed.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ spoke the opening words of this psalm while suffering on the cross: “My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46; Mark 15:34). From its very first verse, Psalm 22 has a powerful connection to the Savior and His suffering.

6-11 Despised and Mocked

The suffering person is despised and scorned by others. Those who see him laugh at him, shake their heads, and say that if he trusted the Lord, the Lord should deliver him. He remembers that God has cared for him since birth and pleads with Him to stay near because trouble is close and there is no one to help.
Words to Know:

Reproach: shame, disgrace, or something treated with scorn.
Scorned: treated with contempt or disrespect.

Christ-Centered Thought: These verses strongly resemble what happened to Jesus during His Crucifixion. Those watching Him mocked His trust in God and said, “He trusted in God; let him deliver him now” (Matthew 27:39-43), closely echoing Psalm 22:8.

12-18 Surrounded and Suffering

The psalm uses vivid pictures to describe intense suffering and danger. Powerful enemies surround the suffering person like strong bulls and a roaring lion. His strength is gone, his mouth is dry, and he is near death. His hands and feet are pierced, his bones can be seen, and others divide his clothing and cast lots for it.
Words to Know:

Bashan: a region known for its well-fed cattle. “Strong bulls of Bashan” pictures powerful enemies surrounding him.
Potsherd: a broken piece of pottery. The comparison emphasizes how dry his strength has become.
Cast lots: a way of making a selection or decision using objects somewhat like drawing lots.

Christ-Centered Thought: The details in this section create especially striking connections with Jesus Christ's Crucifixion. His hands and feet were wounded, and the soldiers divided His clothing and cast lots for it. John 19:23-24 specifically identifies the dividing of Christ's garments as a fulfillment of scripture.

19-21 A Plea for Deliverance

The suffering person asks the Lord not to remain far away and calls upon Him for help. He asks to be delivered from the sword and describes the dangers surrounding him with images of dogs, lions, and the horns of wild oxen.
Words to Know:

Darling: here, a person's precious or only life.
Unicorns: in the KJV, a term for a powerful horned animal, generally understood to refer to a wild ox rather than the mythical creature called a unicorn today.

Christ-Centered Thought: The psalm's suffering is accompanied by a continued plea for God's help. Jesus Christ also turned to His Father throughout His suffering and willingly entrusted Himself to Him. His death was followed by His ultimate victory over death through the Resurrection.

22-26 Suffering Turns to Praise

The psalm shifts from pleading for help to praising God. The speaker declares that he will praise the Lord among his brethren and in the congregation. He says that God has not despised the suffering of the afflicted or hidden His face from him but heard his cry. Those who seek the Lord will praise Him.
Words to Know:

Congregation: an assembly or gathering of people.
Abhorred: hated, rejected, or treated with disgust.
Afflicted: suffering or experiencing distress.

Christ-Centered Thought: Hebrews 2:11-12 quotes Psalm 22:22 and applies it to Jesus Christ: “I will declare thy name unto my brethren.” The movement of the psalm from suffering to praise can also point our thoughts toward the Savior's victory following His suffering and death.

27-31 All the Earth Will Turn to the Lord

The psalm looks forward to people throughout the earth remembering and turning to the Lord. All families of the nations will worship before Him because the kingdom belongs to the Lord and He rules over the nations. Future generations will serve Him and tell those yet to be born what He has done.
Words to Know:

Kindreds: families, tribes, or groups of people.
Seed: descendants or future generations.

Christ-Centered Thought: The psalm begins with suffering but ends with the Lord being worshipped throughout the earth and His works being declared to future generations. Through Jesus Christ, God's work of salvation reaches every nation and generation.

Psalm 23

Psalm 23 teaches about God's personal care by comparing Him to a shepherd who provides for, guides, protects, and stays with his sheep. David trusts the Lord even when he faces danger and enemies because he knows that God's care is still with him. Jesus Christ called Himself the Good Shepherd, and Psalm 23 helps us understand what that means: we can follow Him, trust His guidance, rely on His care during difficult times, and have hope of eventually dwelling in God's presence.

1-3 The Lord Cares for and Guides David

David compares the Lord to a shepherd caring for his sheep. Because the Lord cares for him, David trusts that he will have what he needs. The Lord gives him rest and refreshment, renews him, and guides him in the right way to go because He is faithful and good.
Words to Know:

Shepherd: someone who cares for, protects, and leads sheep.
Want: here, to lack something that is needed.
Restoreth: to renew, refresh, or bring back.
For His name's sake: because of who God is and His faithful character.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ called Himself “the good shepherd” (John 10:11). Like the shepherd David describes, Jesus leads and cares for those who follow Him. We can trust Him to provide spiritual nourishment, renew us, and guide us in the right way.

4 The Lord Is With Him in Danger

Even when David goes through places of deep darkness and danger, he does not need to be afraid because the Lord is with him. Like a shepherd who uses his tools to protect and guide his sheep, the Lord's protection and guidance bring David comfort.
Words to Know:

Valley of the shadow of death: a picture of deep darkness and danger, including the danger of death.
Rod: a sturdy stick a shepherd could use to defend and protect his sheep.
Staff: a shepherd's long stick used to guide and help his sheep.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ does not promise that following Him will keep us from every frightening or difficult experience. He does promise to be with those who follow Him. The Good Shepherd can guide and comfort us even when we cannot clearly see what lies ahead.

5 The Lord Honors and Provides for Him

David now pictures the Lord as a host who prepares a meal for him while his enemies are present. The Lord welcomes and honors him by anointing his head with oil and provides for him so generously that David describes his cup as overflowing.
Words to Know:

Anointest: to apply or pour oil on someone. Anointing a guest with oil could be a sign of welcome and honor.
Cup runneth over: a picture of having an abundant amount—more than enough.

Background: The picture appears to change from a shepherd caring for sheep to a host caring for a guest. Providing a meal and anointing a guest with oil were ways of showing hospitality and honor.
Christ-Centered Thought: The presence of David's enemies does not prevent the Lord from caring for and blessing him. Likewise, difficult circumstances do not prevent Jesus Christ from giving us the spiritual blessings, strength, and care we need.

6 David Trusts in the Lord's Continuing Care

David is confident that God's goodness and mercy will remain with him throughout his life. He looks forward to continuing to dwell with the Lord.
Words to Know:

Mercy: kindness, compassion, and faithful love.
Dwell: to live or remain.

Christ-Centered Thought: Through Jesus Christ, we can have the hope of ultimately living in God's presence. The Savior's care is not temporary; He invites us to follow Him throughout our lives and eventually return to our Heavenly Father.

Psalm 24

Psalm 24 teaches that the earth belongs to the Lord, asks who can enter His holy presence, and ends by welcoming the Lord as the King of glory. Jesus Christ is our Creator and King, and through Him we can be cleansed and prepared to return to God’s presence. The psalm invites us not only to seek the Lord but also to recognize and receive Him as our glorious and mighty King.

1-2 The Earth Belongs to the Lord

Everything on the earth and everyone who lives on it belongs to the Lord because He created and established the world.
Words to Know:

Fulness: everything the earth contains.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ took part in creating the earth under the direction of the Father (John 1:1-3; Hebrews 1:1-2). Everything we have is ultimately His, and creation itself can remind us of His power and greatness.

3-6 Who Can Stand in the Lord’s Presence?

The psalm asks who is worthy to come into the Lord’s holy place. The answer describes someone whose actions and heart are clean, who does not turn toward what is false, and who is honest with others. Those who seek the Lord will receive His blessing and righteousness.
Words to Know:

Clean hands: a picture of righteous actions.
Pure heart: a heart with sincere and righteous desires.
Lifted up his soul unto vanity: turning one’s heart toward things that are false, empty, or worthless.
Sworn deceitfully: made a promise or oath dishonestly.
Vindication: The KJV uses “righteousness” in verse 5. In this context, it can include the idea of being declared right or receiving justice from God.

Background: The “hill of the Lord” and His “holy place” likely refer to the place of God’s presence and worship. The questions emphasize that approaching God involves more than simply coming to a physical place—the way a person lives and the condition of the heart matter too.
Christ-Centered Thought: None of us becomes completely clean through our own efforts. Jesus Christ makes it possible for us to be cleansed from sin and become worthy to enter God’s presence. As we seek Him and follow Him, He can help make both our actions and our hearts clean.

7-10 Welcome the King of Glory

The psalm calls for the gates and ancient doors to open so the King of glory can enter. When the question is asked, “Who is this King of glory?” the answer is the Lord, who is strong and mighty. The invitation is repeated, and the psalm ends by declaring that the Lord of hosts is the King of glory.
Words to Know:

King of glory: a title describing the Lord as the glorious and powerful King.
Lord of hosts: a title for God meaning the Lord of armies or heavenly hosts.
Everlasting doors: ancient or enduring doors.

Background: These verses may picture a procession entering a sacred place, although the psalm itself does not explain the specific occasion. The repeated call for the gates to open emphasizes the entrance and majesty of the Lord as King.
Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ is the divine King. Revelation describes Him as “KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS” (Revelation 19:16). Psalm 24’s invitation to welcome the King of glory can also encourage us to consider whether we are opening our lives and hearts to receive Him.

Psalm 25

Psalm 25 shows David repeatedly looking to God for guidance, forgiveness, protection, and help. He trusts that the Lord will teach those who are humble and show mercy to those who seek Him. Jesus Christ makes forgiveness possible and shows us the way to follow God. Like David, we can turn to the Lord, trust Him, and seek His guidance.

1-3 David Trusts in God

David trusts God and asks Him not to let his enemies defeat him. He believes that those who trust and wait for the Lord will not be put to shame, but those who turn against Him without reason will be.
Words to Know:

Wait on thee: to look to God with trust and hope for His help.

Christ-Centered Thought: David places his trust in the Lord and looks to Him for help. We can also put our trust in Jesus Christ and look to Him as our source of help and salvation.

4-7 David Asks for Guidance and Mercy

David asks God to teach him the right way to live and lead him in truth. He also asks God to show him mercy and not hold the sins of his younger years against him.
Words to Know:

Lovingkindnesses: God's faithful love, kindness, and mercy.

Christ-Centered Thought: David asks for both guidance and mercy. Jesus Christ teaches us the way to follow and makes forgiveness possible through His Atonement.

8-11 God Teaches Those Who Are Humble

Because the Lord is good, He teaches sinners the right way to go and guides those who are humble. His ways are filled with mercy and truth for those who keep His covenant. David asks the Lord to forgive his sin.
Words to Know:

Upright: good and morally right.
Meek: humble and willing to be taught.
Pardon: to forgive.

Christ-Centered Thought: These verses show that God is willing to teach people who have sinned. Through Jesus Christ, we can repent, receive forgiveness, and continue learning to follow God's ways.

12-15 The Lord Teaches Those Who Honor Him

The Lord teaches those who honor Him which way to choose. They will live in peace, and their descendants will inherit the land. The Lord shares His counsel with those who honor Him and shows them His covenant. David keeps his eyes turned toward the Lord because he trusts God to free him from danger.
Words to Know:

Fear the Lord: to deeply respect, honor, and reverence God.
Dwell at ease: to live in well-being or peace.
Secret of the Lord: the Lord’s counsel or close communication.
Net: a trap, used here as a picture of danger.

Christ-Centered Thought: The Lord teaches and guides those who reverence Him. Jesus Christ invites us to learn from Him and follow His way. Like David, we can keep looking toward the Lord and trust Him for help.

16-22 David Asks God for Help

David asks God to have mercy on him because he is alone and suffering. He asks the Lord to help him with his troubles, forgive his sins, protect him from his enemies, and keep him safe because he trusts in God. He ends by asking God to rescue Israel from all its troubles.
Words to Know:

Desolate: alone or without help.
Affliction: suffering, hardship, or trouble.
Integrity: honesty and doing what is right.
Redeem: to rescue or deliver.

Christ-Centered Thought: David turns to God for help with both his troubles and his sins. Jesus Christ is our Redeemer. Through Him we can receive forgiveness for sin and turn to God for help during times of trouble.

Psalm 26

Psalm 26 is David's prayer asking God to examine his life and recognize his desire to walk in God's truth. He describes separating himself from wickedness, worshipping and praising the Lord, and loving the place of God's presence. He also asks God for mercy and redemption. Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, and through Him we can seek to live with integrity, worship God sincerely, and receive His mercy.

1-3 David Asks the Lord to Judge Him

David asks the Lord to examine his life. He says he has tried to live with integrity and has trusted the Lord without turning away. He asks God to test his thoughts and heart because he keeps God's loving kindness before him and walks according to His truth.
Words to Know:

Judge: here, to examine and decide whether David's actions are right.
Integrity: honesty and a commitment to doing what is right.
Reins: literally the kidneys; in biblical language, used to describe a person's deepest thoughts and feelings.

Christ-Centered Thought: David is willing to have God examine both his actions and what is inside his heart. Jesus Christ teaches us that righteousness involves both our outward choices and our hearts. We can invite Him to help us recognize what needs to change.

4-8 David Chooses the Lord's Ways

David says he does not join with dishonest or wicked people. Instead, he approaches the Lord's altar with clean hands, gives thanks, and tells about God's wonderful works. He loves the Lord's house and the place where God's glory dwells.
Words to Know:

Vain persons: people who are false or dishonest.
Dissemblers: people who hide their true intentions or pretend to be something they are not.
Innocency: being free from wrongdoing.
Compass thine altar: to go around or approach the altar.
Habitation: a dwelling place.

Christ-Centered Thought: David wants his life and worship to be centered on God. Jesus Christ can cleanse us from sin so that we can worship God with a clean heart and draw closer to His presence.

9-12 David Asks to Be Kept from the Wicked

David asks God not to treat him like those who commit murder, do evil, or take bribes. He chooses instead to live with integrity and asks the Lord to redeem him and show him mercy. He ends by saying that he stands in a secure place and will praise the Lord among His people.
Words to Know: Gather not my soul: do not include me with or give me the same end as.

Mischievous device: an evil plan.
Bribes: money or favors given to influence someone dishonestly.
Even place: a level or secure place.
Congregations: gatherings of people who worship the Lord.

Christ-Centered Thought: David asks for both redemption and mercy even as he seeks to live with integrity. Jesus Christ is our Redeemer, and His mercy makes it possible for us to be cleansed and stand before God.

Psalm 27

Psalm 27 shows David choosing to trust the Lord even when he is surrounded by enemies and danger. He wants to be near God, seeks His guidance and protection, and chooses to wait for Him with courage. Jesus Christ is our light and salvation. We can seek Him, trust His guidance, and continue looking to Him when we are afraid or waiting for help.

1-3 David Trusts the Lord When Enemies Come

David describes the Lord as the source of his light, salvation, and strength, so he does not need to be afraid. Even when enemies come against him or an army surrounds him, he remains confident in the Lord.
Words to Know:

Foes: enemies.
Host: an army or large group prepared for battle.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ declared, “I am the light of the world” (John 8:12). Like David, we can look to the Lord for light, salvation, and strength when we face opposition or fear.

4-6 David Desires to Be Near the Lord

Above everything else, David desires to remain in the Lord's house, where he can enjoy His goodness and seek Him. David trusts that when trouble comes, the Lord will shelter and protect him. Because of this protection, David looks forward to worshipping the Lord with joy and praise.
Words to Know:

Beauty of the Lord: the Lord's goodness, pleasantness, or favor.
Inquire: to seek or learn.
Tabernacle: a sacred dwelling or place of worship.
Pavilion: a shelter or covering.

Christ-Centered Thought: David's greatest desire in these verses is to be near the Lord. Jesus Christ makes it possible for us to draw near to God and ultimately return to His presence.

7-10 David Asks the Lord to Stay Near

David calls upon the Lord for mercy and asks Him to answer. When the Lord invites him to seek His face, David responds that he will. He pleads with God not to turn away from him or leave him. Even if his father and mother were to leave him, David trusts that the Lord would receive him.
Words to Know:

Seek my face: an invitation to seek the Lord and His presence.
Forsake: to abandon or leave.

Christ-Centered Thought: David responds to God's invitation to seek Him. Jesus Christ also invites us to come to Him and seek a closer relationship with God. We can turn toward Him and seek His presence.

11-12 David Asks God to Lead and Protect Him

David asks the Lord to teach him His way and guide him along a clear path because of his enemies. He asks God not to give him over to them because false witnesses have risen against him and threaten violence.
Words to Know:

Plain path: a level or straight path; here, a clear way to go.
False witnesses: people who give untrue testimony or accusations against someone.

Christ-Centered Thought: David turns to God for both guidance and protection from those who oppose him. Jesus Christ can teach us God's way and help us know the path we should follow.

13-14 Wait for the Lord

David believes he will experience the Lord's goodness during his life. He encourages us to wait for the Lord with courage, with the promise that the Lord will give strength to our hearts.
Words to Know:

Land of the living: life here on earth, in contrast with death.
Wait on the Lord: to continue trusting and hoping in the Lord for His help.

Christ-Centered Thought: Waiting on the Lord requires courage, but we do not have to rely only on our own strength. As we continue to trust in Jesus Christ, He can strengthen our hearts while we wait for His help.

Psalm 28

Psalm 28 moves from David crying to the Lord and asking to be heard to praising God because He has heard him. David describes the Lord as his strength and protection and ends by asking Him to save, bless, and care for His people. Jesus Christ is the Good Shepherd, and through Him we can turn to God in prayer, trust Him, and praise Him.

1-2 David Cries to the Lord

David cries to the Lord and asks Him not to be silent. He says that if God remains silent, he will become like those who go down into the pit. He asks the Lord to hear his prayers when he cries to Him and lifts his hands toward His holy place.
Words to Know:

Pit: here, a reference to the grave or the place of the dead.
Supplications: earnest prayers or requests.
Holy oracle: the innermost holy place of the sanctuary.

Christ-Centered Thought: David directs his cries and prayers to the Lord and asks Him to hear. Through Jesus Christ, we can also approach God in prayer and know that He hears us.

3-5 David Does Not Want to Be Counted with the Wicked

David asks God not to take him away with wicked people. He describes the wicked as people who speak peacefully to others while evil is in their hearts. He asks God to give them according to what they have done. Because the wicked do not pay attention to the Lord's works or what He has done, David says that God will destroy them and not build them up.
Words to Know:

Workers of iniquity: people who do evil.
Mischief: here, evil or harmful intentions.
Regard not: do not pay attention to or consider.

6-7 David Praises the Lord for Hearing Him

David blesses the Lord because He has heard his prayers. David trusts God as his strength and protection and says that he has been helped. His heart rejoices, and he praises God with song.
Words to Know:

Buckler: a shield used for protection.

Christ-Centered Thought: David recognizes the Lord as the source of his strength and protection and responds with praise when his prayer is heard. We can also place our trust in Jesus Christ and praise Him for what He does for us.

8-9 David Prays for God's People

David says that the Lord gives strength to His people. He asks God to save and bless His people and care for them.
Words to Know:

Anointed: someone chosen and set apart by God.
Feed: here, to shepherd or care for.
Lift them up: to carry or support them.

Christ-Centered Thought: David asks the Lord to care for His people like a shepherd. Jesus Christ called Himself the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), and He cares for and saves His people.

Psalm 29

Psalm 29 focuses on the Lord’s glory, power, and authority. David uses powerful scenes from nature to help us understand the greatness of the Lord’s voice and then declares that He reigns as King forever. The psalm ends with the Lord giving strength and peace to His people. Jesus Christ has divine power over creation, is worthy of our worship, and is our eternal King.

1-2 Give Glory to the Lord

David calls on the mighty to recognize the Lord’s glory and strength. He calls on them to give the Lord the honor that belongs to His name and to worship Him in holiness.
Words to Know:

Mighty: powerful or strong ones.
Glory due unto his name: the honor and praise that belong to God because of who He is.
Beauty of holiness: the beauty or splendor of holiness.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ is worthy of glory, honor, and worship. As we recognize His greatness and power, we can choose to honor and worship Him.

3-4 The Voice of the Lord Is Powerful

David describes the Lord’s voice over the waters and connects it with thunder. His voice is powerful and full of majesty.
Words to Know:

Majesty: greatness, dignity, and glory.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ demonstrated divine power through His words. During His mortal ministry, even the wind and sea obeyed His command (Mark 4:39-41).

5-9 The Lord’s Voice Is Powerful in Nature

David continues to describe the great power of the Lord’s voice through images of powerful things happening in nature. These images show the effect of His voice throughout creation. Those in His temple respond by giving Him glory.
Words to Know:

Cedars of Lebanon: large, strong cedar trees that grew in the region of Lebanon.
Sirion: another name for Mount Hermon.
Hinds: female deer.
Discovereth the forests: strips the forests bare.

Background: Lebanon was known for its impressive cedar forests, and Sirion is another name for Mount Hermon. These references would have helped David’s audience picture the powerful natural scenes he describes.
Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ has divine power over creation. The Gospels show this power when He commands the wind and sea and they obey Him (Mark 4:39-41). The power described in Psalm 29 can help us recognize the greatness of the Lord.
10-11 The Lord Is King and Blesses His People
David declares that the Lord rules as King forever. He ends by saying that the Lord gives strength to His people and blesses them with peace.
Words to Know:

Sitteth upon the flood: describes the Lord as ruling or reigning over the flood.

Christ-Centered Thought: The Lord’s great power does not only appear in the dramatic images of nature in this psalm. David also describes Him using His power to strengthen and bless His people. Jesus Christ is our eternal King and can give His followers strength and peace.

Psalm 30

Psalm 30 praises the Lord for His deliverance, healing, mercy, and the joy He can bring after sorrow. The JST adds that when the wicked repent, God's anger is turned away and they receive His favor and life. It also clarifies that although the body returns to the dust at death, the soul continues to praise God. These truths point us toward Jesus Christ, who makes repentance and forgiveness possible and, through His Resurrection, gives us victory over death. Because of Him, we can have hope for both forgiveness in this life and life beyond death.

1-3 David Praises God for Delivering Him

David praises the Lord because He has rescued him from his enemies, answered his cry, healed him, and kept him from dying.
Words to Know:

Extol: to praise highly.
Foes: enemies.
Grave: the place of the dead.
Pit: here, a reference to death or the grave.

Christ-Centered Thought: David recognizes the Lord as the One who delivered and healed him. Jesus Christ has power to heal and, through His Resurrection, has provided ultimate deliverance from death.

4-5 Repentance Brings a Return to God’s Favor

David calls on the faithful to praise and thank the Lord. The JST explains that God’s anger is kindled against the wicked, but when they repent, His anger is turned away and they receive His favor and life. David then contrasts a time of weeping with the joy that follows.
Words to Know:

Saints: here, those who are faithful to God.
Favor: approval, kindness, or blessing.

Background: The Joseph Smith Translation of verse 5 adds that God's anger is directed toward the wicked and that when they repent, His anger is turned away and they receive His favor and life (JST Psalm 30:5). This makes repentance an important part of the meaning of the verse.
Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ makes repentance possible. Through Him, we can turn away from sin, receive forgiveness, and return to God's favor. The movement from weeping to joy also reminds us of the hope and change that come through the Savior.

6-10 David Calls on the Lord

When things were going well, David believed he would not be moved, but he became troubled when the Lord hid His face. David cries to the Lord and asks Him for mercy and help. The JST clarifies that although David's body will return to the dust when he dies, he will continue to praise God and his soul will declare God's truth.
Background: The JST of Psalm 30:9 changes the meaning of the KJV verse. Rather than suggesting that praise ends at death, it describes David's body returning to the dust while his soul continues to praise God and declare His truth.
Christ-Centered Thought: The JST's distinction between the body returning to the dust and the soul continuing after death points to the reality that death is not the end. Through Jesus Christ, death will ultimately be overcome and body and spirit will be reunited in the Resurrection.

Psalm 31

Psalm 31 shows David continuing to trust the Lord through grief, danger, and opposition. He asks God for mercy and deliverance, recognizes His goodness and protection, and ends by encouraging others to love the Lord and continue hoping in Him. Jesus Christ also used the words of this psalm as He placed His spirit in the Father's hands on the cross. Through Christ, we can place our trust in God and look to Him for the strength to remain faithful and courageous.

1-5 David Trusts God to Lead and Deliver Him

David puts his trust in the Lord and asks Him for deliverance, protection, and guidance. He describes God as a strong and safe place and trusts Him to free him from a hidden trap. David places his life in God's hands because the Lord has redeemed him.
Words to Know:

House of defence: a secure place of protection.
Fortress: a strong, protected place.
Privily: secretly.
Commit: to place something into another's care.
Redeemed: rescued or delivered.

Christ-Centered Thought: Verse 5 has an especially direct connection to Jesus Christ. While on the cross, Jesus said, “Father, into thy hands I commend my spirit” (Luke 23:46), using the words of this psalm. Jesus trusted Himself completely to the Father, even as He faced death.

6-8 David Rejoices in God's Mercy

David contrasts those who follow false things with his own trust in the Lord. He rejoices because God has seen his trouble and knows what he has experienced. God has not allowed his enemy to have power over him but has given him freedom.
Words to Know:

Lying vanities: false or worthless things.
Adversities: troubles or difficult circumstances.
Set my feet in a large room: placed him in a broad, open place rather than leaving him trapped or confined.

Christ-Centered Thought: David trusts in the Lord's mercy and recognizes that God knows his troubles. Jesus Christ also knows us and is aware of what we experience. We can place our trust in Him.

9-13 David Describes His Deep Suffering

David asks the Lord for mercy as he describes the effect that grief and sin have had on him. He has become weak and is treated with shame by his enemies. Even people who know him avoid him. Others speak against him, and some join together with plans to take his life.
Words to Know:

Reproach: shame or disgrace.
Slander: false or damaging things said about someone.
Vessel: a container; David compares himself to a broken vessel that is no longer valued or useful.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ experienced rejection, false accusations, and people seeking His death. Because of His mortal experience and Atonement, He understands suffering perfectly and can strengthen us in ours.

14-18 David Continues to Trust God

Even with enemies against him, David continues to trust the Lord and declares that He is his God. He recognizes that his life is in God's hands and asks Him for deliverance and mercy. David also asks that those who speak lies against the righteous be silenced.
Words to Know:

My times are in thy hand: David recognizes that the course of his life is in God's hands.
Contemptuously: with disrespect or scorn.

Christ-Centered Thought: David's troubles do not change whom he chooses to trust. Jesus Christ invites us to trust God and place our lives in His hands.

19-22 God Protects Those Who Trust Him

David praises God's great goodness toward those who honor and trust Him. He describes God protecting them from pride and harmful words. David also remembers a time when he thought he had been cut off from God, but the Lord still heard his prayer.
Words to Know:

Pavilion: a shelter or protected place.
Strife of tongues: harmful arguing, accusations, or words spoken against someone.
In my haste: speaking or thinking quickly, without careful consideration.

Christ-Centered Thought: David learns that God heard him even when he thought otherwise. Jesus Christ helps us draw near to God and gives us reason to continue trusting Him.

23-24 Continue to Trust the Lord

David encourages those who are faithful to love the Lord. He says that the Lord protects the faithful and repays those who act proudly. He encourages everyone who hopes in the Lord to have courage, with the promise that the Lord will strengthen their hearts.
Words to Know:

Preserveth: protects or keeps safe.
Rewardeth: here, repays or gives back according to what someone has done.
Proud doer: someone who acts proudly.
Hope in the Lord: to wait for the Lord with trust and hope.

Christ-Centered Thought: David encourages God's people to continue hoping in Him and promises that the Lord will give them strength. As we put our hope in Jesus Christ, we can look to Him for the strength we need to remain faithful.

Psalm 32

Psalm 32 teaches about the blessing of having our sins forgiven. David describes acknowledging his sin to God and receiving forgiveness, then encourages others to pray, trust the Lord, accept His guidance, and rejoice in Him. Jesus Christ makes repentance and forgiveness possible. Through Him, we can honestly turn to God, receive mercy, and experience the joy of being forgiven.

1-2 The Blessing of Being Forgiven

David teaches that those who have been forgiven of their sins are blessed. The JST clarifies that their sins are truly forgiven, not simply covered or hidden. The Lord no longer holds those sins against them, and they are honest before Him.
Words to Know:

Transgression: breaking or going against God's law.
Imputeth not iniquity: the Lord does not count a person's sin against them.
Guile: dishonesty or deceit.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ makes this forgiveness possible. Through His Atonement and our repentance, our sins can truly be forgiven rather than merely hidden or covered.

3-5 David Confesses His Sin

David describes how heavily his sin affected him while he kept silent about it. Instead of continuing to hide his sin, he acknowledged it to God and confessed what he had done. The Lord forgave him.
Words to Know:

Waxed old: became weak or worn down.
Iniquity: sin or wrongdoing.

Christ-Centered Thought: David's experience shows the importance of honestly acknowledging our sins before God. Jesus Christ makes forgiveness possible when we repent and turn to Him.

6-7 David Turns to God for Safety

David encourages those who follow God to pray to Him while He can be found. David trusts the Lord as his place of safety and believes God will protect him from trouble and surround him with songs of deliverance.
Words to Know:

Godly: those who seek to follow God.
Floods of great waters: an image of overwhelming trouble.
Preserve: to protect or keep safe.
Songs of deliverance: songs celebrating rescue or freedom.

Christ-Centered Thought: David looks to the Lord as his safe place and source of deliverance. Jesus Christ is our Deliverer, and we can turn to Him in prayer and trust in His saving power.

8-9 Be Willing to Follow God's Direction

The Lord promises to teach and guide His people in the way they should go. They are warned not to resist that guidance like a horse or mule that must be controlled with a bit and bridle.
Words to Know:

Bit and bridle: equipment used to control and direct a horse or mule.

Christ-Centered Thought: The Lord is willing to teach us the way to go. Jesus Christ invites us to follow Him willingly and learn from Him rather than needing to be compelled.

10-11 Trust the Lord and Rejoice

David contrasts the sorrow of the wicked with the mercy that surrounds those who trust the Lord. He encourages the righteous to rejoice and be glad in Him.
Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ offers mercy to those who trust in Him. Because of Him, we have reason to rejoice in the Lord and praise Him with sincere hearts.

Psalm 33

Psalm 33 gives many reasons to praise and trust the Lord. He created by His word, His purposes continue through every generation, He sees all people, and His power is greater than human strength. The psalm ends with God's people choosing to wait for Him and trust in His mercy. Jesus Christ is our Creator and Savior, and we can place our hope in Him rather than relying only on earthly strength.

1-5 Praise the Lord for His Goodness

The righteous are invited to joyfully praise the Lord with music and song. There are many reasons to praise Him: His word is right, everything He does is true, He loves righteousness and justice, and His goodness fills the earth.
Words to Know:

Comely: fitting, appropriate, or beautiful.
Psaltery: a stringed musical instrument.
Judgment: justice.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ perfectly represents the goodness and righteousness of God. As we recognize His goodness and the truth of His words, we have reason to rejoice and praise Him.

6-9 The Lord Created by His Word

The Lord created the heavens by His word and gathered the waters of the earth. Because He spoke and creation obeyed, everyone on earth is called to honor Him and stand in awe of His power.
Words to Know:

Host of them: all that fills the heavens.
Stand in awe: to have deep reverence and wonder.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ was the Creator under the direction of the Father. John teaches that all things were made by Him (John 1:1-3), and the Latter-day Saint edition specifically connects Psalm 33:6 with Jesus Christ as Creator (see footnote 6a). The power shown in creation can help us recognize His greatness.

10-12 The Lord’s Purposes Will Stand

The plans of nations and people can fail, but the Lord’s purposes continue through every generation. A nation that recognizes the Lord as its God and a people He has chosen are described as blessed.
Words to Know:

Heathen: nations or Gentiles.
Bringeth to nought: causes something to fail or come to nothing.
Counsel: plans or purposes.

Christ-Centered Thought: God’s purposes do not disappear when human plans change or fail. Jesus Christ carries out the Father’s work, and we can trust that God’s purposes will continue.

13-15 The Lord Sees Everyone

From heaven, the Lord sees all people on the earth. He knows them and considers everything they do.
Words to Know:

Beholdeth: sees or observes.
Fashioneth: forms or shapes.

Christ-Centered Thought: No one is hidden from the Lord. Jesus Christ knows each of us and is aware of our lives and our actions.

16-19 True Safety Comes from the Lord

Human power cannot guarantee safety. A king cannot depend on the size of his army, a strong person cannot depend only on physical strength, and even a powerful warhorse cannot guarantee deliverance. The Lord watches over those who honor Him and hope in His mercy, and He can preserve them through death and famine.
Words to Know:

Host: an army.
Vain: unable to provide what is being depended upon; unreliable.
Famine: a severe shortage of food.

Christ-Centered Thought: The psalm teaches that human strength cannot provide certain deliverance, but the Lord can. Jesus Christ is our Savior and Deliverer, so our ultimate hope should be placed in Him rather than in human power.

20-22 Wait and Trust in the Lord

The psalm ends with God's people waiting for the Lord because they trust Him as their help and protection. They rejoice because they have trusted Him and ask for His mercy as they continue to hope in Him.
Words to Know:

Shield: used here as a picture of protection.
Hope: to trust and wait with expectation.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ gives us a sure reason to hope. We can wait for Him, trust in His help, and rejoice in Him while continuing to depend on His mercy.

Psalm 40

Psalm 40 begins with David remembering how the Lord heard and delivered him and ends with David again looking to God for deliverance. In between, the psalm teaches about trusting the Lord, recognizing His countless works, and delighting in doing His will. It also points directly toward Jesus Christ, who perfectly came to do the Father’s will and bring salvation. Through Him, we can trust God, receive mercy, and rejoice in His salvation.

1-3 The Lord Hears and Delivers

David remembers waiting patiently for the Lord and being heard. He describes God rescuing him from a terrible situation, giving him a firm place to stand, and putting a new song of praise in his mouth. David says that others will see what God has done and learn to trust Him.
Words to Know:

Inclined unto me: turned toward or paid attention to him.
Miry clay: deep, sticky mud; part of David’s picture of being trapped and then rescued.
Established my goings: made his steps secure.

Christ-Centered Thought: David describes the Lord taking him from a place where he was trapped and giving him a secure place to stand. Jesus Christ is our Deliverer, and we can trust Him as the One who brings salvation and gives us reason to praise God.

4-5 Trust the Lord

David teaches that those who put their trust in the Lord rather than following pride and lies are blessed. He then praises God for His countless works and His thoughts toward His people—so many that David says they cannot be numbered.
Words to Know:

Respecteth not: here, does not turn toward or rely upon.
To us-ward: toward us.

Christ-Centered Thought: David points us toward trusting God rather than pride or falsehood. Jesus Christ gives us a sure foundation for that trust, and His works are part of the countless ways God has shown His love for His children.

6-10 Delighting in God’s Will

The psalm teaches that doing God’s will comes from the heart and is more important than simply offering sacrifices. The speaker delights in doing God’s will and openly teaches others about God’s righteousness, faithfulness, salvation, loving kindness, and truth.
Words to Know:

Volume of the book: a scroll or written record.
Great congregation: a large gathering of people.
Refrained my lips: kept from speaking.

Background: Psalm 40 is identified in the Latter-day Saint scripture heading as a messianic psalm. Hebrews 10:5-10 quotes Psalm 40:6-8 and applies these words to Jesus Christ, connecting them with Christ coming to do the Father’s will.
Christ-Centered Thought: These verses point powerfully toward Jesus Christ. He came to do the Father’s will and willingly offered Himself for us. His perfect obedience was more than outward religious observance—He completely submitted His will to the Father.

11-15 David Pleads for Mercy and Deliverance

David asks the Lord to continue showing him mercy and preserving him. He is surrounded by troubles and weighed down by his own sins. He asks God to quickly deliver him and for those who seek to destroy him or rejoice in his trouble to be turned back and put to shame.
Words to Know:

Compassed me about: surrounded me.
Iniquities: sins or wrongdoing.
Confounded: put to shame.
Desolate: here, left devastated or brought to ruin.

Christ-Centered Thought: David recognizes both the troubles around him and his own sins and turns to God for mercy and deliverance. Through Jesus Christ, we can receive mercy and forgiveness and turn to God when we need deliverance.

16-17 Rejoice in the Lord’s Salvation

David asks that everyone who seeks the Lord rejoice in Him and that those who love His salvation continually praise Him. Although David describes himself as poor and needy, he knows that the Lord is mindful of him. He ends by calling God his help and deliverer and asking Him not to delay.
Words to Know:

Magnified: praised or honored as great.
Make no tarrying: do not delay.

Christ-Centered Thought: David finds reason to praise God because he knows the Lord is aware of him and is his Deliverer. Jesus Christ is our Savior and Deliverer, and His salvation gives us reason to continually praise and rejoice in the Lord.

Psalm 46

Psalm 46 teaches that God remains a source of safety and strength even when the world around us is filled with trouble and change. His power is greater than the turmoil of nations, and He has power to bring conflict to an end. The repeated reminder that the Lord is with us leads to the invitation to be still and remember that He is God. Jesus Christ offers us strength, refuge, and peace, giving us reason to trust God rather than live in fear.

1-3 God Is Our Refuge

God is a source of safety and strength and is near when trouble comes. Because of this, the psalm teaches that there is no need to fear, even when everything around us seems to be shaken or changed.
Words to Know:

Refuge: a safe or protected place.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ gives us a sure place to put our trust. Difficult circumstances may still happen, but we can turn to Him for strength and help rather than allowing fear to overcome our faith.

4-7 God Is with His People

God's presence brings safety and gladness to His city. Even when nations and kingdoms are in turmoil, God's power is greater. The section ends with the assurance that the Lord is with His people and is their refuge.
Words to Know:

Tabernacles: dwelling places; here, connected with the holy dwelling place of God.
Heathen: people or nations who do not worship the Lord or are not part of His covenant people.
Lord of hosts: a title for God meaning the Lord of armies or heavenly hosts.

Christ-Centered Thought: One of the repeated truths in this psalm is simply, “The Lord of hosts is with us.” Jesus Christ is Immanuel, meaning “God with us” (Matthew 1:23). His presence gives us reason to trust even when there is turmoil around us.

8-9 God Has Power to End War

The psalm invites us to look at what the Lord has done. God has power over the conflicts of the earth and can bring wars to an end, destroying the weapons used for battle.
Words to Know:

Desolations: destruction or devastation.
Cutteth the spear in sunder: breaks the spear into pieces.

Christ-Centered Thought: Jesus Christ is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). Psalm 46 teaches that God has power to bring conflict to an end, pointing us toward the peace and ultimate victory that come through Christ.

10-11 Be Still and Know That He Is God

God calls His people to be still and recognize that He is God. He declares that He will be honored among the nations and throughout the earth. The psalm closes by repeating its assurance that the Lord is with His people and is their refuge.
Words to Know:

Be still: to stop or become quiet. The footnote also connects this phrase with silence.
Exalted: honored or lifted up as great.

Christ-Centered Thought: We do not always have to understand or control everything happening around us. We can become still and remember who God is. Jesus Christ gives us reason to trust God's power and remember that He is with us.

Monday, August 17, 2026