Read Psalm 34 in its entirety. Then, if possible, read this Psalm in a different version.
1. Verse 8 tells us to “taste and see that the Lord is good.” Playing off of this idea on taste, describe your absolute most favorite dinner (we don’t have to consider calories on this one)?
2. Now, before you go get a snack, after you have considered the thought of good food, consider what Jesus meant by spiritual food. Read Matthew 4:1-4. Explain what Jesus is talking about when He says, “People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God” (NLT).
3. There is much spiritual food in Psalm 34. Our lives would be filled to overflowing if we could take it all in. Examine verses 1-4. In what practical ways would our lives be transformed if we could determine to “praise the Lord at all times” and “constantly speak His praises.” How does an attitude of praise impact the rest of our lives?
4. Take a few moments to speak several “normal everyday type of things” for which you are truly grateful. Can you share why these particular things came to mind?
5. Consider verses 4-5. When is a time when you have been freed from all of your fears after praying to God? What was that like? How did this experience build your faith?
6. Read verses 6-7. Why do you think we pay much more attention to God when we are feeling desperate? This week take a few moments to jot down some times when you came to God in moments of desperation and how He met your need. Let’s keep this list in our Bibles to review at times when we know we should be feeling thankful, but our mind is taken up with our problems.
7. Write down the names of three people and make verse seven a prayer this week. Pray that these three will grow to, or grow in their “fear” (reverence) of God and that the angel of the Lord will guard, surround, and defend them. Who is on your heart this week?
8. Verses 9-10 encapsulates a magnificent promise. Discuss what we in affluent American consider “needs” and contrast those “needs” with what those in third world countries would consider “wants” or even “luxuries.” How does considering those who are less fortunate put our own lives into perspective? Have you thought of some new things for which to pause and thank God?
9. Discuss verses 12-14. What correlation do the Scriptures offer between living a long and prosperous life and controlling one’s tongue and working to maintain peace?
10. Commentator Matthew Henry tells us, “David’s prayers helped to silence his fears; many besides him have looked unto the Lord by faith and prayer and it has wonderfully revived and comforted them. When we look to the world, we are perplexed , and at a loss.”
And so this is the battlefield of the mind when it comes to thanksgiving. If we can but keep our minds turned toward God in faith and prayer and keep looking toward the Lord our spirits can be triumphant even during our troubles in life. What are some practical ways that you can share that have helped you to turn your mind towards the Lord, and to remember to pray when troubles come?
11. Re-read verses 18-19. Why do you think that God is especially close to the brokenhearted? What does this say about God? How does this give you hope?
