◄ Psalm 34 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Taste and See That the LORD Is Good (1 Samuel 21:8–15) Of David, when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech,a so that the king drove him away.b 1 I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips. 2My soul boasts in the LORD; let the oppressed hear and rejoice. 3Magnify the LORD with me; let us exalt His name together. 4I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears. 5Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed. 6This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved him from all his troubles. 7The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them. 8Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him! 9Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing. 10Young lions go lacking and hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing. 11Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD. 12Who is the man who delights in life, who desires to see good days? 13Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from deceitful speech. 14Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it. 15The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry.c 16But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil,d to wipe out all memory of them from the earth. 17The righteous cry out, and the LORD hears; He delivers them from all their troubles. 18The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit. 19Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all. 20He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken.e 21Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned. 22The LORD redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned. Footnotes: 1 a Abimelech is another name for Achish; see 1 Samuel 21–29 and 1 Kings 2:39. 1 b This psalm is an acrostic poem, each verse beginning with the successive letters of the Hebrew alphabet. 15 c LXX to their prayer 16 d Cited in 1 Peter 3:10–12 20 e Cited in John 19:36 Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 34 Summary Taste and See That the LORD Is Good Verses 1–3 – Continuous Praise David vows to bless the LORD at every moment, urging others to join his joyful boasting. Praise is not an occasional act but a lifestyle meant to overflow and invite others to magnify God together. Verses 4–7 – Personal Rescue David recalls seeking the LORD and being answered. Fear melted away; the angel of the LORD encamped around him. The poor man’s cry became proof that God hears and saves when danger surrounds. Verses 8–10 – Taste and Trust The psalm turns outward: “Taste and see that the LORD is good.” Those who take refuge lack no good thing, while even strong lions go hungry. The believer’s security rests in God, not personal strength. Verses 11–14 – Lessons in Holy Living David speaks as a teacher, inviting “children” to learn what it means to fear the LORD: guard your tongue, depart from evil, do good, seek peace, pursue it. Reverence for God shows up in everyday choices. Verses 15–18 – The LORD’s Nearness God has His eyes on the righteous and His ears toward their cry. He opposes evildoers yet draws near to the brokenhearted, rescuing those crushed in spirit. Pain does not cancel His presence. Verses 19–22 – Ultimate Deliverance and Judgment Many troubles strike the righteous, but the LORD delivers from them all, even keeping every bone intact. Evil will slay the wicked; those hating the righteous will be condemned. The LORD redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned. Psalm 34 is a rich, heartfelt composition by David. It provides a broad array of spiritual insights about God's divine character, His protection, His deliverance, and the wisdom in fearing Him. Through David's words, we're invited to explore the divine power and loving mercy of God, His relationship with the righteous, and His judgment upon the wicked. Historical Setting Psalm 34’s title links it to the moment David “pretended insanity” before Abimelech (another name for Achish) in Gath (1 Samuel 21:10-15). Fleeing Saul, David found himself in enemy territory, cornered by fear. The dramatic escape became a lifelong lesson in God’s faithfulness. The psalm’s acrostic structure—each verse beginning with a successive Hebrew letter—suggests careful reflection after the crisis, turning raw experience into an A-to-Z testimony of the LORD’s rescue. Literary Structure • Alphabetic acrostic of 22 verses—memory aid and artistic flourish • Movement: Testimony (vv. 1-7) → Invitation (vv. 8-10) → Instruction (vv. 11-14) → Assurance (vv. 15-22) • Chiastic echoes: Praise frames the psalm (vv. 1-3 & v. 22), placing deliverance and instruction at the center. Key Themes • Continual praise regardless of circumstances • God’s personal rescue of those who seek Him • Experiential knowledge: “taste and see” • Practical holiness as evidence of godly fear • God’s nearness to the humble and crushed • Certain judgment on the wicked versus protection of the righteous Word and Phrase Insights • “Bless” (v. 1) – same root as in Genesis 12:2; praise is giving back the blessing we receive. • “Boast in the LORD” (v. 2) – contrasts with self-promotion; see Jeremiah 9:23-24. • “Angel of the LORD” (v. 7) – a visible, powerful manifestation of God’s protection, echoed in Exodus 14:19-20 and 2 Kings 19:35. • “Taste” (v. 8) – sensory verb; faith involves personal experience, not hearsay. • “Keep your tongue from evil” (v. 13) – the first outworking of godly fear is controlled speech; compare James 3:5-10. Connections to Other Scriptures • 1 Peter 2:3 cites Psalm 34:8 to urge newborn believers to crave pure spiritual milk after “tasting” the Lord’s goodness. • Psalm 91 parallels: angelic protection, deliverance from trouble, long life. • John 19:36 points to Psalm 34:20 (“Not one of His bones will be broken”) as fulfilled in Jesus’ crucifixion. • Isaiah 57:15 echoes verses 17-18, highlighting God’s dwelling with the contrite. • Proverbs 16:7 aligns with verse 14 on pursuing peace. Messianic Scope Verse 20’s promise that none of the righteous one’s bones will be broken finds direct New Testament application in the passion narrative. The righteous sufferer motif foreshadows Christ, who, though surrounded by enemies, trusted the Father for deliverance beyond death. Archaeological and Cultural Notes • Gath’s city gate, where David feigned madness, has been excavated at Tell es-Safı. The imposing fortifications underscore his peril. • “Abimelech” was likely a royal title (“my father is king”), explaining its use for Philistine rulers from Genesis to David’s day. • Olive oil and bread, staples in Israel, flavor the “taste and see” imagery, grounding spiritual truth in everyday cuisine. Practical Application 1. Make praise a reflex: begin and end the day with spoken thanks. 2. Exchange anxiety for seeking: vocalize fears to God as David did. 3. Test God’s goodness—step out in obedience and note His provision. 4. Guard speech: aim for truth, kindness, and peacemaking. 5. Offer presence to the brokenhearted as a living picture of God’s nearness. Outline for Teaching or Preaching I. Praise on the Run (vv. 1-3) II. Face Your Fears through Prayer (vv. 4-7) III. Invite Others to Experience God (vv. 8-10) IV. Lessons in Daily Godliness (vv. 11-14) V. God Watches, Listens, Rescues (vv. 15-18) VI. Troubles, Triumphs, and Final Verdicts (vv. 19-22) Living the Psalm Today Psalm 34 calls believers to make worship habitual, view every crisis as a future testimony, and demonstrate reverence through everyday integrity. Its acrostic form hints that God covers life from A to Z; no letter, no moment, falls outside His care. Connections to Additional Scriptures Philippians 4:6-7 Encourages believers to present their requests to God with thanksgiving, promising peace that surpasses understanding. 1 Peter 5:7 Reminds us to cast all our anxieties on God because He cares for us. Matthew 5:6 Speaks of the blessing for those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. Isaiah 41:10 Offers assurance of God's presence and strength in times of fear. Teaching Points Praise and Worship David begins with a commitment to bless the Lord at all times. I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips (Psalm 34:1). This sets the tone for a life of continuous worship, regardless of circumstances. Deliverance from Fear David testifies of God's deliverance from fear. I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears (Psalm 34:4). Seeking God in prayer is key to overcoming fear. The Radiance of Trust Those who look to God are radiant and unashamed. Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed (Psalm 34:5). Trusting in God brings a transformation that is visible to others. God's Nearness to the Brokenhearted The Lord is close to those who are brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit (Psalm 34:18). God's presence is a comfort in times of deep sorrow. Righteous Living and God's Protection The psalm emphasizes living righteously and the protection that comes with it. The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry (Psalm 34:15). Practical Applications Cultivate a Habit of Praise Make it a daily practice to praise God, regardless of your circumstances. This can transform your perspective and bring peace. Seek God in Times of Fear When fear arises, turn to God in prayer and trust Him to deliver you. Remember that He is faithful to answer. Reflect God's Radiance As you trust in God, let His joy and peace shine through you, impacting those around you. Find Comfort in God's Presence In moments of heartbreak or distress, draw near to God, knowing that He is close and ready to save. Pursue Righteousness Strive to live a life that is pleasing to God, knowing that His protection and guidance are with the righteous. People 1. David The author of the psalm, who is traditionally identified as King David. He is the speaker throughout the psalm, expressing his praise and gratitude to God for deliverance from his fears. The psalm is attributed to the time when David pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away, and he departed. 2. The LORD (YHWH) The central figure in the psalm, referred to as "the LORD" (YHWH in Hebrew). God is depicted as a deliverer, protector, and provider for those who fear Him. The psalm emphasizes God's responsiveness to the cries of the righteous and His ability to save and redeem. 3. The Angel of the LORD Mentioned in verse 7, "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them." This figure is often understood as a manifestation of God's presence and protection, providing deliverance to the faithful. 4. The Righteous Referred to multiple times throughout the psalm, the righteous are those who live in accordance with God's will and fear Him. They are promised God's attention, deliverance, and protection. 5. The Wicked Contrasted with the righteous, the wicked are those who oppose God's ways. The psalm describes the eventual downfall and destruction of the wicked as a result of their actions. 6. The Afflicted Mentioned in verse 6, "This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved him from all his troubles." The afflicted are those who are in distress or trouble, and the psalm assures them of God's attentive care and deliverance. Places 1. The Cave of Adullam While not mentioned directly in Psalm 34, the superscription of the psalm refers to the time "when he pretended to be insane before Abimelech, who drove him away, and he left." This historical context places David in the region of the Cave of Adullam (1 Samuel 21-22), where he sought refuge. The cave symbolizes a place of safety and divine protection. 2. The Presence of the LORD Throughout Psalm 34, there is a recurring theme of being in the presence of the LORD. Verses like "The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous" (Psalm 34:15) suggest a spiritual place of divine attention and care. In Hebrew, the word for presence is often "פָּנִים" (panim), meaning "face," indicating a personal and intimate encounter with God. 3. The Place of Deliverance Psalm 34:4 states, "I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears." This verse implies a metaphorical place of deliverance, where God rescues the faithful from distress. The Hebrew root "נָצַל" (natsal) means to snatch away or deliver, emphasizing God's active role in providing safety. 4. The Place of Refuge In verse 8, "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!" the concept of refuge is central. The Hebrew word "חָסָה" (chasah) means to seek shelter or trust, indicating a place of spiritual security and trust in God. 5. The Place of Brokenness and Healing Verse 18 states, "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit." This suggests a place of emotional or spiritual brokenness where God is especially present to heal and restore. The Hebrew word "דַּכָּא" (dakka) for contrite means crushed or humbled, highlighting a state of vulnerability where divine healing occurs. Events 1. David's Commitment to Praise David begins by expressing his intention to bless the Lord at all times. He states, "I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips" (Psalm 34:1). The Hebrew word for "bless" here is "בָּרַךְ" (barak), which conveys a sense of kneeling or giving adoration. 2. Invitation to Magnify the Lord David invites others to join him in exalting the Lord, saying, "Magnify the LORD with me; let us exalt His name together" (Psalm 34:3). The term "magnify" comes from the Hebrew "גָּדַל" (gadal), meaning to make great or to glorify. 3. Testimony of Deliverance David shares his personal testimony of seeking the Lord and being delivered from his fears: "I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4). The Hebrew root "דָּרַשׁ" (darash) for "sought" implies a diligent search or inquiry. 4. Encouragement to Look to the Lord He encourages others to look to the Lord, promising that they will be radiant and unashamed: "Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed" (Psalm 34:5). The Hebrew word "נָהַר" (nahar) for "radiant" suggests a shining or beaming with joy. 5. The Poor Man's Cry David recounts how a poor man cried out, and the Lord saved him: "This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved him from all his troubles" (Psalm 34:6). The Hebrew "עָנִי" (ani) for "poor" indicates one who is afflicted or humble. 6. The Angel of the Lord's Protection He describes the protection of the angel of the Lord: "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them" (Psalm 34:7). The Hebrew "חָנָה" (chanah) for "encamps" suggests a protective surrounding. 7. Invitation to Taste and See David invites others to experience the Lord's goodness: "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him" (Psalm 34:8). The Hebrew "טָעַם" (taam) for "taste" implies experiencing or perceiving. 8. Call to Fear the Lord He calls the saints to fear the Lord, promising that those who do will lack nothing: "Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing" (Psalm 34:9). The Hebrew "יָרֵא" (yare) for "fear" denotes reverence and awe. 9. Contrast of Lions and Seekers David contrasts young lions lacking food with those who seek the Lord: "The young lions may lack and go hungry, but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing" (Psalm 34:10). The Hebrew "בָּקַשׁ" (baqash) for "seek" implies a pursuit or search. 10. Instruction on the Fear of the Lord He offers instruction on fearing the Lord, emphasizing speaking truth and pursuing peace: "Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD" (Psalm 34:11). 11. Promise of the Lord's Attention David assures that the Lord's eyes and ears are attentive to the righteous: "The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry" (Psalm 34:15). 12. The Lord's Nearness to the Brokenhearted He highlights the Lord's closeness to the brokenhearted and His salvation for the crushed in spirit: "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). 13. Deliverance from Afflictions David concludes with the promise of deliverance from afflictions for the righteous: "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all" (Psalm 34:19). Lessons from Psalm 34 1. Seek the Lord and Find Deliverance Psalm 34:4 says, "I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears." This verse reminds us that when we actively seek God, He is faithful to respond. In times of anxiety or uncertainty, turning to God in prayer and meditation can bring peace and clarity. Remember, God is always ready to deliver us from our fears when we call upon Him. 2. Radiate Joy and Confidence Verse 5 tells us, "Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed." When we focus on God, our lives reflect His light and joy. This joy is not just a fleeting emotion but a deep-seated confidence that comes from knowing we are loved and cared for by our Creator. Let your life be a testament to the joy that comes from a relationship with God. 3. Experience God's Goodness "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him!" (Psalm 34:8). This invitation is a call to experience God's goodness firsthand. Just as tasting a delicious meal brings satisfaction, experiencing God's presence fills our lives with blessings and contentment. Take refuge in Him, and you will find true happiness. 4. Fear the Lord for a Fulfilled Life Verse 9 encourages us, "Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing." The fear of the Lord is not about being afraid but having a deep respect and reverence for God. This reverence leads to a life of fulfillment and provision. When we prioritize God, He ensures that our needs are met. 5. Pursue Peace and Righteousness Psalm 34:14 advises, "Turn away from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it." This is a call to action for living a life of integrity and peace. By actively choosing good over evil and seeking peace in our relationships, we align ourselves with God's will and experience His blessings. 6. God Hears the Righteous "The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry" (Psalm 34:15). This assurance reminds us that God is attentive to those who live righteously. He is not distant or indifferent but actively listens to our prayers and concerns. Live righteously, and know that God is always near. 7. The Lord is Close to the Brokenhearted Verse 18 offers comfort: "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit." In times of sorrow or heartache, God is especially close. He offers healing and salvation to those who are humble and contrite. Trust in His presence during difficult times, and find solace in His love. 8. Many Troubles, But Greater Deliverance Psalm 34:19 states, "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all." Life is not without challenges, even for the righteous. However, God's promise of deliverance is greater than any trouble we face. Hold onto this promise, knowing that God will see you through every trial. 9. God Protects His People "He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken" (Psalm 34:20). This verse speaks to God's protective nature over His people. While it may not always mean physical protection, it assures us of God's spiritual safeguarding. Trust in His protection, knowing that He watches over you. 10. Redemption for the Servants of the Lord The final verse, Psalm 34:22, declares, "The LORD redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned." This is the ultimate promise of salvation and redemption for those who serve God. By taking refuge in Him, we are assured of His eternal protection and grace. Embrace this promise, and live with the confidence of your redemption. Topics 1. Praise and Worship of the Lord Psalm 34 begins with a call to bless and praise the Lord at all times. The psalmist, David, emphasizes the importance of continual worship, stating, "I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips" (Psalm 34:1). The Hebrew word for "bless" here is "בָּרַךְ" (barak), which conveys a sense of kneeling in adoration. 2. Deliverance from Fear David testifies to the Lord's deliverance from fear, saying, "I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4). The Hebrew root "יָרֵא" (yare) for "fear" indicates a deep reverence or terror, which God alleviates. 3. The Radiance of Those Who Seek God The psalmist describes the transformation of those who look to God: "Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed" (Psalm 34:5). The Hebrew word "נָהַר" (nahar) for "radiant" suggests a shining or flowing with light. 4. The Lord's Salvation for the Afflicted David recounts his own experience of God's salvation: "This poor man called out, and the LORD heard him; He saved him from all his troubles" (Psalm 34:6). The term "poor" in Hebrew, "עָנִי" (ani), often refers to the humble or afflicted. 5. The Angel of the Lord as Protector The psalm highlights divine protection: "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them" (Psalm 34:7). The Hebrew "מַלְאָךְ" (malak) for "angel" signifies a messenger or representative of God. 6. Invitation to Experience God's Goodness An invitation is extended to taste and see God's goodness: "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him" (Psalm 34:8). The Hebrew "טוֹב" (tov) for "good" encompasses moral goodness and benevolence. 7. Fear of the Lord as the Path to Lack Nothing The psalmist teaches that fearing the Lord leads to provision: "Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing" (Psalm 34:9). The Hebrew "יָרֵא" (yare) again emphasizes reverence and awe. 8. Instruction in the Fear of the Lord David offers instruction on living in the fear of the Lord: "Come, children, listen to me; I will teach you the fear of the LORD" (Psalm 34:11). The Hebrew "לָמַד" (lamad) for "teach" implies learning through practice and experience. 9. The Lord's Attention to the Righteous The psalm assures that God is attentive to the righteous: "The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry" (Psalm 34:15). The Hebrew "צַדִּיק" (tzaddik) for "righteous" denotes those who are just and upright. 10. The Lord's Nearness to the Brokenhearted A comforting promise is given: "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). The Hebrew "נִשְׁבָּר" (nishbar) for "brokenhearted" conveys a sense of being crushed or shattered. 11. Deliverance from Many Troubles The psalm concludes with assurance of deliverance: "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all" (Psalm 34:19). The Hebrew "צָרָה" (tzarah) for "afflictions" refers to distress or trouble. 12. Preservation of the Righteous God's protection is further emphasized: "He protects all his bones; not one of them will be broken" (Psalm 34:20). This verse is often seen as prophetic, relating to the Messiah. 13. Condemnation of the Wicked The fate of the wicked is contrasted with the righteous: "Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned" (Psalm 34:21). The Hebrew "רָשָׁע" (rasha) for "wicked" indicates those who are morally wrong or guilty. 14. Redemption for the Servants of the Lord The psalm concludes with a promise of redemption: "The LORD redeems His servants, and none who take refuge in Him will be condemned" (Psalm 34:22). The Hebrew "פָּדָה" (padah) for "redeems" signifies a ransom or rescue. Themes 1. Praise and Worship of God Psalm 34 begins with a call to bless the Lord at all times, emphasizing continuous praise. The Hebrew word for "bless" (בָּרַךְ, barak) conveys a sense of kneeling or showing reverence. The psalmist declares, "I will bless the LORD at all times; His praise will always be on my lips" (Psalm 34:1). 2. Deliverance from Fear The psalmist speaks of seeking the Lord and being delivered from fears, highlighting God's role as a deliverer. The Hebrew root for "deliver" (נָצַל, natsal) implies rescue or snatching away from danger. "I sought the LORD, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4). 3. The Radiance of Those Who Trust in God Trusting in God brings a transformation that is visible. The psalmist notes, "Those who look to Him are radiant with joy; their faces shall never be ashamed" (Psalm 34:5). The Hebrew word for "radiant" (נָהַר, nahar) suggests a shining or flowing with light. 4. God's Provision and Protection The theme of God's provision and protection is evident as the psalmist recounts how God hears and saves the afflicted. "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and he delivers them" (Psalm 34:7). The Hebrew word for "encamps" (חָנָה, chanah) indicates a protective surrounding. 5. The Goodness of God The psalm invites believers to experience God's goodness firsthand. "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in Him" (Psalm 34:8). The Hebrew word for "taste" (טָעַם, taam) implies a personal experience or perception. 6. The Fear of the Lord Reverence for God is a central theme, with a call to fear the Lord as a path to lacking nothing. "Fear the LORD, you His saints, for those who fear Him lack nothing" (Psalm 34:9). The Hebrew word for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) encompasses awe and reverence. 7. Righteous Living and Its Rewards The psalm outlines the blessings of righteous living, including God's attentive care. "The eyes of the LORD are on the righteous, and His ears are inclined to their cry" (Psalm 34:15). The Hebrew word for "righteous" (צַדִּיק, tsaddiq) refers to those who are just and upright. 8. God's Nearness to the Brokenhearted God's compassion is highlighted as He is described as being close to those who are brokenhearted. "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted; He saves the contrite in spirit" (Psalm 34:18). The Hebrew word for "brokenhearted" (נִשְׁבָּר, nishbar) conveys a sense of being crushed or shattered. 9. Deliverance from Afflictions The psalmist assures that though the righteous face many troubles, God delivers them from all. "Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the LORD delivers him from them all" (Psalm 34:19). The Hebrew word for "afflictions" (רָעָה, raah) can mean evil or distress. 10. The Ultimate Justice of God The psalm concludes with a promise of divine justice, where the wicked will face condemnation. "Evil will slay the wicked, and the haters of the righteous will be condemned" (Psalm 34:21). The Hebrew word for "condemned" (אֲשֵׁם, ashem) implies being held guilty or accountable. Prayer Points Praise God for His Faithfulness Thank God for His constant presence and deliverance in your life. Pray for Deliverance from Fear Ask God to remove any fears and replace them with His peace and assurance. Seek God's Radiance Pray for the ability to reflect God's joy and peace to those around you. Comfort for the Brokenhearted Lift up those who are brokenhearted, asking God to draw near and provide comfort. Commitment to Righteous Living Ask for strength and guidance to live a life that honors God and reflects His righteousness. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can Psalm 34:8 state “taste and see that the Lord is good” when there is no empirical way to measure spiritual experiences? 2. How does Psalm 34 claim God protects the righteous (Psalm 34:19–20) if historical records show many righteous individuals still suffer or die? 3. On what historical basis can we trust the attribution of Psalm 34 to David when some scholars question the accuracy of biblical authorship claims? 4. How does Psalm 34:7’s mention of an angel encamping around believers align with modern understanding of spiritual and physical realities? 5. Why does Psalm 34:17–18 promise God hears and delivers the righteous but seem to conflict with other passages describing unanswered prayers? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does David's continual praise of God in verses 1-3 challenge your personal worship practices? 2. What fears do you need God to deliver you from as mentioned in verse 4? 3. What does it mean to you to "taste and see" that the Lord is good (verse 8)? 4. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's goodness as David describes in verses 8-10. What was that like? 5. How does David’s instruction on righteous living in verses 11-14 apply to your daily life? 6. How can you actively seek peace in your life as directed in verse 14? 7. In what ways have you felt God's attentiveness as expressed in verses 15-18? 8. How do you interpret the contrast between God's attention to the righteous and His judgment of the wicked in verses 15-18? 9. How does the assurance of God’s deliverance in verses 19-22 provide comfort in your current situation? 10. How might the idea that God removes the memory of the wicked from the earth (verse 16) shape your view on immortality and legacy? 11. In what ways can you apply the lessons of this Psalm to your interactions with others? 12. How does Psalm 34 shape your understanding of what it means to fear God? 13. What actionable steps can you take to seek and live a righteous life as depicted in this Psalm? 14. How does David's perspective on suffering in this Psalm resonate with you? 15. How can this Psalm guide you in dealing with unjust situations? 16. What does this Psalm teach about God's justice? 17. How can we reconcile a loving God with the one who condemns the wicked as depicted in this Psalm? 18. How does David's confidence in God's deliverance influence your trust in God? 19. How does this Psalm encourage you in times of distress and affliction? 20. What role does continual praise play in your relationship with God based on the teaching of this Psalm? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions