Answers to May 20 Questions

Psalm 73

What mistake did Asaph make in his thinking? He was looking only at temporal, material condition of the wicked to believe that the wicked are better off than the righteous

Are his observations in verses 4-12 accurate? There is some exaggeration in his observations, and he also is overgeneralizing all the wicked

What wrong attitude did these observations produce? Envy, and also the idea that diligence to be righteous is in vain

If he were to express this attitude to others what would be the result? He would have caused them to stumble and sin

What was the solution for his wrong thinking? He went to the house of God and understood the long-term consequences

What is Asaph’s attitude now? Faith in God’s goodness, wisdom, and justice; desire to be with God

What does he do with his new thinking? Praise God and teach and encourage others

Psalm 74

What has happened to Israel? Foreigners have invaded Israel

What does verse 9 indicate about this time? There are no prophets or miracles being done

How does Psalm 74 express faith in God’s power? By giving examples of using His power over creation, including seas, sun, and continents

Psalm 75

What is God doing in Psalm 75? Judging the wicked

Is the cup in the Lord’s hand something to desire to drink? no

Psalm 76

Where is God’s dwelling place? In (Jeru)Salem , Zion

What is the main idea of Psalm 76? God judged a nation by defeating its army

Psalm 77

What in the past does Asaph miss? The great works of God recorded in scripture

What does he think God has stopped doing? Being merciful and gracious to Israel

What did he do to strengthen his faith in God? Go to the sanctuary, learn of God’s way and meditate on God’s great works

Psalm 78

What is the purpose of Psalm 78? To teach Israel

What period of history does Asaph tell? Beginning from their slavery in Egypt, their wilderness wanderings, their apostasy in Canaan during the judges, then David becomes king

What is manna called in verse 25? Angel’s food

How did God feel about Israel’s rebellion? Angry (v.31), sad (v.40)

What caused Israel’s lack of faith? They forgot His great works done in Egypt and crossing the Red Sea, miracles and care in the wilderness and in giving them Canaan

What period of history do verses 56-64 cover? The judges

Who did God use to deliver Israel and guide them? David