Psalm 54 | Your Name, O Lord, Is Good (Tom Fox)

Sermon 4 of 4 in Series through Psalms __________________________ Small Group Questions 1. Psalm 54 moves from lament (1-3) to confident faith (4-5) to unbounded praise (6-7). This pattern in many of the psalms is the pattern of our lives. Can you share ways you have seen this movement in your own life from lament to faith to praise? 2. Employing a variety of the names and attributes of God (LORD, Lord, god, Name, might, faithfulness, helper, upholder), the psalmist prayed consistent with what he knew to be true of God. Do you reflect on the nature and character of God as revealed in Scripture to help you pray? What might be some reasons for endeavoring to pray in a way that is reflective of God's nature and character? Can you give examples of praying in ways that are and are not reflective of God's character? 3. Reflecting on God's nature and character and praying accordingly caused David's faith to soar. Can you name specific times that the Lord has been your helper and the upholder of your life? Have you witnessed God return evil on the head of evildoers? 4. The psalmist prayed that God in his faithfulness would put an end to his enemies. What is the place of imprecation in the prayers of God's people? 5. The psalm begins with lament and ends with praise. Even though the psalmist had likely not experienced deliverance, the anticipation of deliverance filled him with praise. Would you characterize yourself as a thankful person? Are you quick to lament but slow to praise? What are good practices in demonstrating gratitude to the Lord publicly? Are you confident the Lord will finally deliver you safely into his eternal kingdom?