The Book of Psalms gives us a full range of ways to approach God. David was chosen by God to shepherd and lead God’s people with integrity of heart and skillfulness of hands. (2 Sam. 32:1, Ps 78:70-72) His passion for God’s glory was the basis for over 73 psalms attributed to him in the Bible. David embodied a devotion to God and a desire to expand God’s kingdom. Today we will focus on Psalms 27, a psalm of David.

Declare
(v.1)

The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid? —Psalm 27:1

Beware
(v.2-3)

When the wicked came against me to eat up my flesh,
My enemies and foes, they stumbled and fell. ³ Though an army may encamp against me, my heart shall not fear; Though war may rise against me, in this I will be confident. —Psalm 27:2-3

Draw Near
(v.4-5)

One thing I have desired of the Lord, that will I seek:
That I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
To behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple. ⁵ For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock. —Psalm 27:4-5

Prepare
(v.6, 8, 13-14)

⁶ And now my head shall be lifted up above my enemies all around me; Therefore, I will offer sacrifices of joy in His tabernacle; I will sing, yes, I will sing praises to the Lord…⁸ When You said, “Seek My face,”
My heart said to You, “Your face, Lord, I will seek.”… ¹³ I would have lost heart, unless I had believed That I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living. ¹⁴ Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord! —Psalm 27:6,8,13-14

Discipleship Guide

Let’s Connect
What song reminds you of summer? Why?

Let’s Talk About It
Songs have a way of bringing emotion out of us. Some songs bring a smile to our faces, some help us relax, while others make us cry. The Psalms could be called the Bible’s songbook. Each psalm was initially written as a song to reflect on the greatness of who God is and how He cares for His people. As we study some of these ancient songs this summer, we’ll see God invite us to come to Him as we are – in times of anguish, pain, joy, and thanksgiving – to see Him at work in every season and every circumstance.

Psalm 1

Which part of the message impacted or challenged you?

Read Psalm 1. Discuss the two kinds of people described in this Psalm. What practical things can you do to become more like the person described in verse three? What are some things that hinder you?

Read the main scriptures used in this message. What do these scriptures tell you about God? How do they apply to your life now?

What’s your one thing that motivates you?

What’s your summer song that brings you to Jesus? Are you singing it?
What area do you need help in? Declare, Beware, Prepare

Take a Step
What step can you take this week to put this message into practice?

Here’s My Prayer
Lord, thank you that I can bring my concerns to You, knowing that You care about every detail of my life. Teach me how to meditate on You and delight in You so my life is fruitful and brings You glory. Fill me with the joy that comes from dwelling in Your presence. In Jesus’ name, amen.