|
The book of Psalms is really a book of songs; of praise,
prayer, and prophecy. Many of them were written by David (king
of Israel around 1000 B.C.), some by Hezekiah, and one at
least by Moses (Psalm 90).
The Psalms were originally sung, and accompanied by musical
instruments. They contain the experiences of men of God and
express sadness, joy and trust. The Psalms were intended for
personal use as well as congregational worship and, whatever
state we are in, there is always a Psalm suited to our needs.
The work of Christ was foretold in the Psalms and indeed
in all parts of the Old Testament (Luke 24:44). Some Psalms
are obviously about him. They are called 'Messianic Psalms'
because they are about the Messiah (anointed one) who should
come, e.g.
· Christ's sufferings
Psalms 22; 40; 109; 118
· His Resurrection
Psalms 16; 91
· His Future Rule
Psalms 2; 24; 45; 72; 110; 122
There are 150 Psalms and all of them are so good it is difficult
to pick out only one and say "that is the best".
Many people know Psalm 23 (The Lord is my Shepherd) but there
are plenty of others just as valuable and as interesting.
Psalm 119 is the longest Psalm. It has 22 sections, in each
of which the verses begin with the same letter of the Hebrew
alphabet. It has 176 verses and every verse refers either
to God's word, or to His laws, commandments, precepts, statutes,
testimonies, and judgement.
Psalm 117 is the shortest Psalm with only 2 verses.
|