The second book of Psalms is full of Davidic psalms. It includes31 psalms with 18 ascribed to David, 7 to the sons of Korah, 1 to Solomon (Psalm 72), and the rest are anonymous. These psalms were compiled for Tabernacle and Temple services.
Psalms: Book Two relates to the book of Exodus. The general theme concerns Israel as a nation: Israel’s ruin, Redeemer, and redemption. It begins, like Exodus, with a cry from the depth of ruin and despair (Psalm 41-42, related to Exodus 1-3), continues with God’s mighty works of deliverances (Psalm 44-50, related to Exodus 4-15), includes backsliding, defeat, and hardships (Psalms 51-55, related to Exodus 16-27) and ends with God’s redemptive work for Israel and His eternal reign (Psalm 56-72, related to Exodus 19-40).
It is interesting how the psalms in this section focus on God as the mighty Judge and King. He is the powerful worker of justice on all nations, the rescuer of those who delight in Him, and the One who is above all and over all. The Lord will go before us to execute justice on His enemies. David wants us to have a sense of wonder when we worship the Lord, but does not want us to forget about our deliverance and redemption. They speak of how God is able to rescue His people even when they are in ruin and slavery. This book uses the name Elohim (164), more than Yahweh (30).
Psalm 42 sets the scene by crying out for God’s presence in a dry wilderness experience, much like the scene depicted in Exodus. The Psalmist continually appeals to God for deliverance from the enemy who is afflicting God’s people. The book finishes with a prayer of Solomon, the third king of the United Kingdom of Israel (Psalm 72). The final verses praise God for His power and might, and His glory. Don’t miss the double “Amen” at the end of the doxology! Again.
One of my favorite psalms in this section is Psalm 51, where David pours his heart out to God asking for forgiveness and mercy. He says, "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me away from Your presence, and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation, and uphold me by Your generous Spirit." This is the prayer he offered after his sin with Bathsheba, Uriah's wife. He shows us that there is always hope with God. If we fail, He will give us another chance. There will still be consequences but He can forgive us of our sins. Have a great week!
You are loved.
Ray Reynolds, PhD
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