This week our Psalms readings are in Books 3 and 4.  They are attributed to the Sons of Korah, David, Moses, and others who are not named.  Book 3 closes with Psalm 89, but don't miss Psalm 88.  As you read it, spend some time with it.  It's a psalm of lament and ends on a dark note.  It's important to know that these kinds of writings are in Scripture.  The rest of our readings this week will be the entirety of Book 4 (Psalms 90-106).  Contained within Book 4 are some of the most well-known psalms: 90 (written by Moses; from which we get the song, "O God, Our Help in Ages Past"), 91, 92, 95 (often used as a call to worship), 98 (from which we get the song, "Joy to the World"), 100 (Thanksgiving psalm), 103 (multiple songs from this psalm), and 104 (creation theme).  As you read the Psalms this week, look for how the Psalms point to Christ.  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?

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