Some have called Psalm 145, “The Teacher’s Psalm.” Let’s discover why.
Prompt: “Tell me about God,” a child or international student could say to you. What would be your reply?
Read Psalm 145.
1. Read v 1,2. “I’ll praise you forever.” That sounds like a big promise, like two teenagers saying, “Best Friends Forever.” What time commitment does the writer make to show this isn’t an empty promise to God? How often does he plan to praise God? What reason does v. 3 give for this this prolific show of praise?
2. Read v. 4-7. Part of praising God is telling others about Him. A second hand complement always carries more weight than a direct complement. Who does the telling? (see also v. 10.) Who is being told? (see also v. 12).
3. Read v 4-7 again. How would you apply these verses to teaching children about God? What does the Psalm say we can teach the next generation? What should be our attitude in teaching?
4. In the midst of telling how one generation will tell another, the writer makes it personal in verses 5 and 6: “I will mediate on your wonderful works.” “I will proclaim your great deeds.” What has God done for you?
When has he shown you compassion and mercy?
How has He lifted you up out of trouble?
When and how has He given you food at the proper time?
How has God watched over you?
5. Remember our prompt? Read v. 8-20. Make a list of at least six things the writer tells us about God. Hint: Look for the words, “The Lord is . . .” How would you teach these traits to a child? What Bible stories would you use to illustrate these attributes? What stories from your own life would you use as illustrations?
This week, make the praise of God’s greatness personal. Tell your story. Tell it with joy and celebration. Find someone to tell. Tell so everyone around you will know how you feel about the Lord God Almighty.
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