Month 17

Psalm 86

1. In v.1: What does the psalmist ask of God and why?
2. The psalm describes undesirable situation he is in, e.g. “sad” (v.4) and “in trouble” (v.7). What else can you find in this psalm?
3. The psalm also describes what the psalmist hopes of God. He writes these in terms of requests he makes to God. List 2 or 3 that are most meaningful to you. In what ways are they meaningful to you?
4. Continuing from the previous question, choose one of those in your list. Taking turn in your group, tell you group what your item is; if you like, explain it further.
5. Pray about difficult situations or problems arising from the previous question. The new Psalm 86 composition “Incline Your Ear, O Lord” might be helpful to meditate on God’s protection and help: suggest to the group what other worship hymns or songs are helpful.
6. Memorise one important and meaningful sentence from this psalm that you can recall when you feel you are in difficult situation or needing help. Let your group know what this sentence is (or the verse). Say it to each other to build each other up. Try to do this as you meet in the coming weeks.

Two compositions for Psalm 86, both titled “Incline Your Ear, O Lord”:

• In Borneon / Indonesian / Malay

• In English, a different tune

Dekatkanlah TelingaMu, ya Tuhan

Mazmur 46: hymn

Incline Your Ear, O Lord

Psalm 46: hymn