◄ Psalm 44 ►
Book Sum People Lessons Que
Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
Redeem Us, O God (Romans 8:35–39) For the choirmaster. A Maskila of the sons of Korah. 1 We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us the work You did in their days, in the days of old. 2With Your hand You drove out the nations and planted our fathers there; You crushed the peoples and cast them out. 3For it was not by their sword that they took the land; their arm did not bring them victory. It was by Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your face, because You favored them. 4You are my King, O God, who ordains victories for Jacob. 5Through You we repel our foes; through Your name we trample our enemies. 6For I do not trust in my bow, nor does my sword save me.b 7For You save us from our enemies; You put those who hate us to shame. 8In God we have boasted all day long, and Your name we will praise forever. Selah 9But You have rejected and humbled us; You no longer go forth with our armies. 10You have made us retreat from the foe, and those who hate us have plundered us. 11You have given us up as sheep to be devoured; You have scattered us among the nations. 12You sell Your people for nothing; no profit do You gain from their sale. 13You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, a mockery and derision to those around us. 14You have made us a byword among the nations, a laughingstockc among the peoples. 15All day long my disgrace is before me, and shame has covered my face, 16at the voice of the scorner and reviler, because of the enemy, bent on revenge. 17All this has come upon us, though we have not forgotten You or betrayed Your covenant. 18Our hearts have not turned back; our steps have not strayed from Your path. 19But You have crushed us in the lair of jackals;d You have covered us with deepest darkness. 20If we had forgotten the name of our God or spread out our hands to a foreign god, 21would not God have discovered, since He knows the secrets of the heart? 22Yet for Your sake we face death all day long; we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered.e 23Wake up, O Lord! Why are You sleeping? Arise! Do not reject us forever. 24Why do You hide Your face and forget our affliction and oppression? 25For our soul has sunk to the dust; our bodies cling to the earth. 26Rise up; be our help! Redeem us on account of Your loving devotion. Footnotes: 1 a Maskil is probably a musical or liturgical term; used for Psalms 32, 42, 44–45, 52–55, 74, 78, 88–89, and 142. 6 b Or give me victory; similarly in verse 7 14 c Literally a shaking of the head 19 d Or serpents or dragons 22 e Cited in Romans 8:36 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 44 Summary Redeem Us, O God Verses 1–3 – Triumphs Told by Our Fathers Israel remembers how the LORD’s “right hand” conquered the nations and planted His people in the land—the victory was all His, not theirs. Verses 4–8 – Present Confidence Because of that history the community hails God as King, boasting in His name, not in bow or sword, certain He can save again. Verses 9–16 – Bitter Defeat and Shame Now comes stunning defeat: God seems to have rejected them, armies fail, enemies plunder, and Israel becomes a laughingstock among the nations. Verses 17–22 – Innocence Maintained Though crushed, the people insist they have kept the covenant. They suffer “for Your sake,” counted like sheep for slaughter. Verses 23–26 – Urgent Plea for Rescue The psalm closes with a bold cry: “Wake up…Rise up; be our help!” They appeal to God’s steadfast love to redeem them from the dust. Psalm 44 is a poignant expression of faith and national identity, in which the Psalmist reflects upon God's historic deliverance of Israel, juxtaposed with their present suffering. It delves deep into the mystery of God's providence and seeming absence during times of trials, highlighting the need for faith and steadfastness, even when God's ways seem unfathomable. Authorship and Setting “Of the sons of Korah” links the psalm to the Levitical choir family (1 Chron 6:31-38). The backdrop is a humiliating military defeat with national scattering (v 11) yet no wholesale apostasy. Possible fits: the Philistine rout under Saul (1 Samuel 31), a northern defeat in the Aramean wars (2 Kings 14), or Sennacherib’s early advances against Hezekiah (2 Kings 18). Each allowed Israel’s worship life to continue while tasting sharp disgrace. Literary Structure 1. Recollection of past victories (vv 1-3) 2. Declaration of trust (vv 4-8) 3. Complaint of calamity (vv 9-16) 4. Protest of innocence (vv 17-22) 5. Petition for deliverance (vv 23-26) The snap from praise to pain (v 9) shows faith and lament inhabiting the same heart. Key Words and Phrases • “Right hand…arm” (v 3) – divine power; cf. Exodus 15:6. • “Light of Your face” (v 3) – favor; cf. Numbers 6:25. • “We do not trust in our bow” (v 6) – echoes Hosea 1:7; Zechariah 4:6. • “Sheep to be slaughtered” (v 22) – cited in Romans 8:36. • “Redeem” (v 26) – same root as Exodus 6:6, recalling the Exodus. Historical and Archaeological Insights • Assyrian reliefs show captives led like sheep, mirroring v 11. • Ugaritic texts describe sleeping gods awakened by worshippers, a backdrop for “Wake up, O Lord!” (v 23). • The Merneptah Stele confirms Israel’s presence in Canaan by 1200 BC, supporting the “days of old” narrative (vv 1-3). Connections to Other Scriptures • Deuteronomy 7:17-24 – God drove out the nations (vv 1-3). • Job 13:15 – innocent yet afflicted (vv 17-22). • Isaiah 59:1-2 – hidden face ties to sin; here the mystery is innocence. • Romans 8:31-39 – uses v 22 to promise inseparable love. • Revelation 6:10 – martyrs’ “How long?” echoes vv 23-24. Themes in Plain Language • Remembering God’s past deeds fuels today’s faith. • Faithful people can still suffer deeply. • Honest lament belongs in worship. • Suffering for God’s sake has purpose, even if hidden. • Covenant love is the final appeal. Practical Application • Keep testimonies alive—tell the next generation (Psalm 78:4). • Trust God, not modern “bows” like finances or status. • Bring raw questions to God; He invites them. • Stand firm under undeserved trials (1 Peter 4:12-13). • Anchor every prayer in His loyal love (ḥesed). Christ-Centered Reading Jesus, the innocent sufferer, was mocked (v 13; Matthew 27:29) and led like a lamb to slaughter (v 22; John 1:29). His resurrection is God’s final “Rise up” (v 26), guaranteeing redemption. Worship Insights • Use vv 1-3 for triumphant opening praise. • Transition to vv 9-16 in minor key for lament. • End with vv 23-26, shifting to hopeful crescendo. Teaching Outline 1. God’s Resume (1-3) 2. Our Declaration (4-8) 3. The Dark Valley (9-16) 4. Steadfast Hearts (17-22) 5. The Bold Appeal (23-26) Psalm 44 holds memory and mystery together, urging God’s people to trust His unfailing love even when heaven seems silent. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 8:28 And we know that God works all things together for the good of those who love Him, who are called according to His purpose. This verse reassures us of God’s sovereign plan even in suffering. Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see. This encourages us to maintain faith despite not seeing immediate results. Job 13:15 Though He slay me, I will hope in Him. Job’s declaration of trust in God amidst suffering parallels the psalmist’s plea for redemption. Teaching Points Historical Reflection The psalm begins with a recollection of God’s past deeds. We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us the work You did in their days, in the days of old (Psalm 44:1). This sets the stage for understanding the current crisis in light of God’s historical faithfulness. Divine Sovereignty The psalm acknowledges that victories come not by human strength but by God’s favor. For it was not by their sword that they took the land; their arm did not bring them victory. It was by Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your face, for You delighted in them (Psalm 44:3). Present Distress Despite their faithfulness, the Israelites face defeat and humiliation. But now You have rejected and humbled us; You no longer go forth with our armies (Psalm 44:9). This highlights the mystery of suffering and the challenge of maintaining faith when God seems distant. Plea for Redemption The psalm ends with a heartfelt plea for God’s intervention. Rise up, be our help! Redeem us for the sake of Your loving devotion (Psalm 44:26). This reflects a deep trust in God’s character and a hope for restoration. Practical Applications Remember God’s Faithfulness In times of trouble, recall God’s past faithfulness in your life and in the lives of others. This can provide comfort and perspective. Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty Recognize that true success and victory come from God, not from our own efforts. Trust in His timing and purposes. Be Honest in Prayer Like the psalmist, bring your doubts and struggles before God. He is big enough to handle our questions and our pain. Hold on to Hope Even when God seems silent, cling to His promises and character. Trust that He is working for your good and His glory. People 1. God The central figure in Psalm 44, God is addressed directly by the psalmist. The psalm recounts God's past deeds in delivering Israel and expresses a plea for His intervention in current troubles. The Hebrew term used for God here is "אֱלֹהִים" (Elohim), which is a common term for God in the Hebrew Bible, emphasizing His power and majesty. 2. Our Fathers This refers to the ancestors of the Israelites who experienced God's mighty works in the past. The psalmist recalls how God drove out nations and planted the Israelites in the land, attributing these acts to the faithfulness and power of God. The Hebrew term "אָבוֹתֵינוּ" (avoteinu) is used, meaning "our fathers" or "our ancestors." 3. The Israelites While not explicitly named as "Israelites" in the text, the psalm is a communal lament from the perspective of the people of Israel. They are the ones experiencing distress and seeking God's help. The collective "we" and "us" throughout the psalm represent the nation of Israel. Places 1. Canaan The land promised to the Israelites, where God drove out the nations before them. The Psalm reflects on past victories in this land, as seen in verses like Psalm 44:2-3, which speak of God planting the Israelites and driving out the nations. 2. Egypt While not directly mentioned, the historical context of God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt is often recalled in the Psalms. The reference to God's mighty acts in the past (Psalm 44:1) can be seen as an allusion to the Exodus. 3. The Promised Land This is the land given to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Psalm reflects on the inheritance and victories God granted to His people in this land (Psalm 44:3). 4. The Wilderness Although not explicitly named, the wilderness journey is part of the collective memory of Israel's history, where God led and sustained His people before entering the Promised Land. 5. Jerusalem/Zion While not directly mentioned in Psalm 44, Jerusalem is often the focal point of Israel's national and spiritual identity, and the lament over current struggles could imply a longing for restoration centered around Zion. Events 1. Recollection of Past Victories The psalm begins with a recollection of the mighty deeds God performed for the ancestors of Israel. The psalmist states, "We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us the work You did in their days, in the days of old" (Psalm 44:1). The Hebrew word for "work" (פָּעַל, pa'al) emphasizes God's active intervention in history. 2. God's Sovereign Power The psalmist acknowledges that it was not by their own strength that the ancestors conquered the land, but by God's power: "For it was not by their sword that they took the land; their arm did not bring them victory. It was by Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your face, for You delighted in them" (Psalm 44:3). The Hebrew term for "right hand" (יָמִין, yamin) symbolizes strength and favor. 3. Declaration of Trust in God The psalmist expresses trust in God as their King and Savior: "You are my King, O God, who ordains victories for Jacob" (Psalm 44:4). The use of "King" (מֶלֶךְ, melech) underscores God's sovereign rule over Israel. 4. Acknowledgment of God's Past Deliverance The psalmist recalls how God has delivered them in the past: "Through You we repel our foes; through Your name we trample our enemies" (Psalm 44:5). The Hebrew word for "trample" (דָּרַךְ, darak) conveys the idea of treading down or subduing. 5. Current Distress and Defeat The psalm shifts to a lament over current distress, where God seems absent: "But now You have rejected and humbled us; You no longer go forth with our armies" (Psalm 44:9). The Hebrew root for "rejected" (זָנַח, zanach) implies a sense of being cast off or forsaken. 6. Public Disgrace and Humiliation The psalmist describes the shame and humiliation faced by the people: "You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and derision to those around us" (Psalm 44:13). The term "reproach" (חֶרְפָּה, cherpah) indicates disgrace or dishonor. 7. Plea for God's Intervention Despite the suffering, the psalmist pleads for God's intervention, maintaining faithfulness: "Awake, O Lord! Why do You sleep? Arise! Do not reject us forever" (Psalm 44:23). The call for God to "awake" (עוּר, ur) is a metaphor for divine action and attention. 8. Affirmation of Covenant Loyalty The psalmist affirms their loyalty to God, despite the trials: "All this has come upon us, though we have not forgotten You or betrayed Your covenant" (Psalm 44:17). The Hebrew word for "covenant" (בְּרִית, berit) signifies a solemn agreement or promise. 9. Final Appeal for Redemption The psalm concludes with a heartfelt appeal for redemption: "Rise up, be our help! Redeem us for the sake of Your loving devotion" (Psalm 44:26). The term "redeem" (פָּדָה, padah) refers to the act of deliverance or rescue, often with a connotation of paying a price. Lessons from Psalm 44 1. Remember God's Past Faithfulness Psalm 44 begins with a powerful reminder of God's past deeds: "We have heard with our ears, O God; our fathers have told us the work You did in their days, in the days of old" (Psalm 44:1). This verse encourages us to reflect on the stories of faith and deliverance that have been passed down through generations. By remembering how God has acted in history, we can find assurance and hope in His unchanging nature. Let these stories fuel your faith and remind you that the same God who worked wonders in the past is still active today. 2. Trust in God's Sovereignty The psalmist acknowledges that it was not by their own strength that they conquered the land, but by God's hand: "For it was not by their sword that they took the land; their arm did not bring them victory. It was by Your right hand, Your arm, and the light of Your face, for You delighted in them" (Psalm 44:3). This lesson teaches us to rely on God's sovereignty rather than our own abilities. Trust that He is in control and that His plans are perfect, even when circumstances seem uncertain. 3. Acknowledge God as Your King In verse 4, the psalmist declares, "You are my King, O God; who ordains victories for Jacob" (Psalm 44:4). Recognizing God as our King means submitting to His authority and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life. When we acknowledge His lordship, we align ourselves with His will and open our lives to His blessings and direction. 4. Seek God's Help in Times of Trouble The psalmist cries out for deliverance, saying, "But now You have rejected and humbled us; You no longer go forth with our armies" (Psalm 44:9). This plea reminds us that it's okay to bring our struggles and disappointments before God. He is a compassionate Father who listens to our cries and is ready to provide comfort and assistance. Don't hesitate to seek His help when you face challenges. 5. Embrace Humility and Repentance In acknowledging their defeat, the psalmist also recognizes their need for humility: "You have made us a reproach to our neighbors, a scorn and derision to those around us" (Psalm 44:13). This teaches us the importance of humility and repentance. When we fall short, it's crucial to turn back to God, confess our sins, and seek His forgiveness. He is faithful to restore us when we come to Him with a contrite heart. 6. Stand Firm in Faith Despite Adversity The psalmist expresses unwavering faith even in the face of adversity: "All this has come upon us, though we have not forgotten You or betrayed Your covenant" (Psalm 44:17). This lesson encourages us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when circumstances are challenging. Trust that God is with you, and let your faith be a beacon of hope and strength. 7. Recognize the Reality of Spiritual Warfare Psalm 44 highlights the reality of spiritual battles: "You have given us up as sheep to be devoured; You have scattered us among the nations" (Psalm 44:11). This reminds us that we are engaged in a spiritual war, and we must be vigilant and prepared. Equip yourself with the armor of God and stand firm against the schemes of the enemy, knowing that victory is assured through Christ. 8. Cling to God's Unfailing Love Despite the trials, the psalmist holds onto God's love: "Rise up; be our help! Redeem us for the sake of Your loving devotion" (Psalm 44:26). This lesson teaches us to cling to God's unfailing love, which is the foundation of our hope and salvation. His love never wavers, and it is the anchor that keeps us steady in the storms of life. 9. Be Honest with God About Your Feelings The psalmist is candid about his feelings of abandonment: "Awake, O Lord! Why do You sleep? Rouse Yourself! Do not reject us forever" (Psalm 44:23). This honesty is a reminder that we can be open with God about our emotions. He understands our struggles and invites us to share our hearts with Him. In doing so, we find comfort and reassurance in His presence. 10. Hope in God's Ultimate Redemption The psalm concludes with a plea for redemption: "Redeem us for the sake of Your loving devotion" (Psalm 44:26). This final lesson points us to the ultimate hope we have in God's redemption through Jesus Christ. No matter what we face, we can rest assured that our salvation is secure in Him. Let this hope inspire you to live boldly and share the good news of Christ's love with others. Topics 1. Recollection of God's Past Deliverances The psalm begins with a reflection on the mighty works God performed for the ancestors of Israel. The psalmist recalls how God drove out nations and planted the Israelites in the land, emphasizing that it was not by their own strength but by God's hand. This is rooted in the Hebrew understanding of God's covenant faithfulness (חֶסֶד, "chesed"). 2. Acknowledgment of God's Sovereignty The psalmist acknowledges that God is the King and the one who commands victories for Jacob. This recognition of divine sovereignty is central to the psalm, highlighting the belief in God's ultimate authority and power over all nations. 3. Expression of Current Distress The psalm shifts to a lament over the current state of suffering and defeat. The psalmist describes how the people feel rejected and humiliated, despite their faithfulness. This section reflects the Hebrew concept of lament (קִינָה, "qinah"), a passionate expression of grief. 4. Plea for Divine Intervention The psalmist earnestly appeals to God for help, questioning why God seems to be asleep and asking Him to rise up and redeem His people. This plea is rooted in the Hebrew tradition of calling upon God in times of need, trusting in His ability to save. 5. Assertion of Innocence and Faithfulness Despite their suffering, the psalmist asserts that the people have not forgotten God or been false to His covenant. This claim of innocence is significant, as it underscores the belief in a just God who rewards faithfulness. 6. Call for God's Unfailing Love The psalm concludes with a call for God to act according to His unfailing love (חֶסֶד, "chesed"). This appeal to God's steadfast love is a recurring theme in the Psalms, reflecting the deep trust in God's enduring mercy and compassion. Themes 1. Remembrance of God's Past Deliverances The psalm begins with a recollection of God's mighty works in the past, as recounted by the ancestors. The psalmist acknowledges that it was not by their own strength that they conquered the land, but by God's hand. This theme emphasizes the importance of remembering and trusting in God's past faithfulness. The Hebrew root "זכר" (zakar) is often associated with remembrance, highlighting the act of recalling God's deeds. 2. God as the Source of Victory The psalmist attributes victories not to their own strength or weapons but to God's favor and presence. This theme underscores the belief that true success and triumph come from reliance on God rather than human efforts. The Hebrew word "ישועה" (yeshuah), meaning salvation or deliverance, is central to this theme. 3. Present Suffering and Defeat Despite past victories, the psalmist laments current suffering and defeat, feeling abandoned by God. This theme reflects the tension between past experiences of God's deliverance and present circumstances of distress. The Hebrew root "דכא" (dakah), meaning to crush or oppress, captures the sense of being overwhelmed by adversity. 4. Plea for Divine Intervention The psalmist earnestly appeals to God for help, questioning why God seems distant and asking for His intervention. This theme highlights the human tendency to seek God's presence and aid in times of trouble. The Hebrew word "עזר" (ezer), meaning help or assistance, is significant in this context. 5. Faithfulness Amidst Trials Despite the hardships, the psalmist asserts their continued faithfulness to God, insisting that they have not forgotten Him or turned away. This theme emphasizes steadfastness and loyalty to God even when circumstances are challenging. The Hebrew root "אמונה" (emunah), meaning faithfulness or trust, is relevant here. 6. Questioning God's Justice The psalmist questions why the righteous suffer and why God allows His people to be humiliated. This theme explores the struggle to understand divine justice and the reasons behind suffering. The Hebrew word "צדק" (tsedeq), meaning righteousness or justice, is central to this inquiry. 7. Hope for Redemption The psalm concludes with a plea for God to rise up and redeem His people, expressing hope for future deliverance. This theme reflects the belief in God's ultimate power to save and restore. The Hebrew root "גאל" (ga'al), meaning to redeem or reclaim, underscores the expectation of divine intervention. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God’s Past Faithfulness Thank God for His past deeds and the ways He has shown Himself faithful in your life. Trust in God’s Sovereignty Pray for a deeper trust in God’s control over your circumstances, acknowledging His power and wisdom. Honesty in Lament Ask God for the courage to be honest about your struggles and to bring your pain before Him in prayer. Hope and Restoration Pray for renewed hope and for God’s intervention in areas of distress, trusting in His loving devotion. Answering Tough Questions 1. (Psalm 44:1–3) How can we verify historically or archaeologically that God “drove out the nations” and gave Israel the land? 2. (Psalm 44:9–10) Why would a supposedly omnipotent and loving God suddenly reject His people and allow them to be defeated in battle? 3. (Psalm 44:11–12) Is there any extrabiblical record supporting the claim that the faithful were “scattered among the nations” and sold cheaply? 4. (Psalm 44:17–19) How is it consistent with other biblical texts that the righteous suffer so severely despite remaining faithful? 5. (Psalm 44:23–24) If God is omniscient and ever-present, how could He be described as sleeping or hiding His face from His people? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 44 connect the past, present, and future of Israel's relationship with God? 2. How might you relate to the Psalmist's feeling of God's perceived absence in times of hardship? 3. In what ways can reflecting on God's past faithfulness strengthen your faith during difficult times? 4. Why do you think the Psalmist remains loyal to God despite their current suffering? 5. How does this Psalm challenge the notion that good behavior always leads to tangible blessings? 6. What does this Psalm reveal about the nature of faith and loyalty to God? 7. What can you learn from the way the Psalmist communicates their feelings of abandonment to God? 8. How does this Psalm inspire you to persevere through trials and suffering in your own life? 9. How do you reconcile God's love and power with His apparent silence during our trials? 10. How does Psalm 44 inform the Christian perspective on suffering? 11. In what ways can the Psalmist's plea for divine intervention apply to our prayers today? 12. Why does the Psalmist believe that they have not broken God's covenant? How does this apply to our understanding of personal integrity? 13. How can the theme of trust in this Psalm be applied in present-day living? 14. How can you use Psalm 44 as a guide when you feel like God is distant or uncaring? 15. How does the national identity of Israel as portrayed in this Psalm inform the modern understanding of community and nationhood in religious contexts? 16. In what ways does this Psalm challenge you to examine your own response to God's perceived silence? 17. How might you apply the lessons from this Psalm when dealing with ridicule or scorn from others because of your faith? 18. How does this Psalm encourage you to affirm your loyalty to God, especially in the face of adversity? 19. How does this Psalm resonate with the current state of your nation or community? 20. How does Psalm 44 inspire you to trust in God's unfailing love, even when His methods and timings are mysterious? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions