Psalms is a collection of 150 inspired songs and prayers expressing the full range of human emotion before God. Written by various authors across centuries, the Psalms include praise, lament, thanksgiving, wisdom, and prophecy. The book reveals God’s character, celebrates His faithfulness, and teaches believers how to worship, trust, and seek Him in every circumstance.
Background
Author: Multiple contributors including David, Asaph, the Sons of Korah, Moses, Solomon, and anonymous writers
Audience: Israel and future generations of worshipers
Date: Roughly 1400–450 BC
Location Written: Various locations throughout Israel’s history
Context: The Psalms form Israel’s worship manual and devotional heart. They were used in temple worship, personal prayer, and national celebrations. The collection reflects triumphs, failures, suffering, repentance, and joy. Many psalms point prophetically to the Messiah, expressing hope in God’s deliverance and reign. Their poetic structure and raw honesty make them timeless guides for spiritual life.
Characters
- David — primary psalmist expressing deep trust, repentance, and worship
- Asaph — Levitical musician contributing psalms of reflection and instruction
- Sons of Korah — worship leaders writing psalms of praise and longing
- Moses — author of Psalm 90, reflecting on God’s eternity and human frailty
- God — central focus of all psalms as creator, king, protector, and redeemer
- Israel — nation expressing collective worship, lament, and hope
Major Events
- Psalms of praise celebrating God’s greatness
- Lament psalms crying out in suffering or injustice
- Thanksgiving psalms expressing gratitude for deliverance
- Wisdom psalms teaching righteousness and the fear of the Lord
- Royal and Messianic psalms pointing to Christ’s kingship
- Penitential psalms expressing repentance and restoration
- Psalms of ascent sung by pilgrims traveling to Jerusalem (Psalms 120–134)
- Concluding doxology praising God’s eternal glory (Psalm 150)
Application & Life Lessons
- God invites honest prayer in every emotional state
- Worship shapes our perspective and strengthens our faith
- God is our refuge in times of trouble
- Repentance leads to restoration and renewed joy
- Trust in God grows through remembering His past faithfulness
- God reigns as king over all creation and deserves all praise
- Scripture based worship teaches truth and anchors the heart
- Hope in the Messiah brings comfort and future assurance
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Psalms
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Psalms
Podcasts
- Related Podcasts Coming Soon
Articles
- Related Articles Coming Soon
Bible Reading Plans
- Related Bible Reading Plans Coming Soon
Books
This section may contain affiliate links
- Related Books Coming Soon
Related Blog Posts
Related Blog Posts Coming Soon
Disclosures & Notices
Disclosure: This page may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.