The Psalms are grouped into 5 "books." This week we will reach the end of the first book of the Psalms. Some suggest that the division into 5 books is to mirror the 5 books of Torah (Genesis -Deuteronomy). In our readings this week, most of the psalms are attributed to David. Some are praise; others are lament; some have specific events in David's life in mind; others have no particular setting. Some of the psalms may be familiar (22, 23, 24, 27, 32, 40); others may be less familiar (21, 26, 30, 37, 41). As you read (or listen) this week, reflect on how these psalms speak to you in your specific situation. How do the words of the psalms give voice to what you are feeling and experiencing? The beauty of the psalms is how timeless they are and how God has used them to speak to his people for so long. Enjoy this week's journey through the psalms; praying that they provide a blessing to you as you read. We enter our rhythm of LEARN-READ-INTERACT.

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about Psalms:

Phrase: Lament and Praise
Theme: God the Great King provides the words of lament and praise that are appropriate responses to him.
Christ-Focus: Christ is the embodiment and means for our appropriate response to the Great King (Colossians 1:15-18).
Implications: We can talk to God about everything as we grow in teh unbreakable relationship with the Father that Jesus has secured for us (Philippians 4:6-7).
Questions: Is your faith strong enough for you to be honest with God? Is there room in your faith community for you to express these feelings? What is your motivation for prayer?

Share your insights, questions, and reflections through our Encounter blog. Click below to go to the blog.