James Travis

Psalm 8

Psalm 8, another attributed to David, begins and ends with praise to the magnificent God in heaven: “O LORD, our Lord, how magnificent is your reputation throughout the earth! You reveal your majesty in the heavens above. From the mouths of children and nursing babies you have ordained praise on account of your adversaries, soContinueContinue reading “Psalm 8”

Psalm 7

When facing problems we can often turn our focus solely on ourselves. But, is this right? Is there a better place to look in difficulties? Psalm 7 is another attributed to David and was written about his encounter with a Benjaminite named Cush (1 Samuel 22.8, 24.9, 26.19). He begins by asking for deliverance inContinueContinue reading “Psalm 7”

Psalm 6

This is the first of the penitential Psalms in our Bibles: Psalms of confession and/or humility before the Lord. “LORD, do not rebuke me in your anger. Do not discipline me in your raging fury. Have mercy on me, LORD, for I am frail. Heal me, LORD, for my bones are shaking.” (vv.1-2) David criesContinueContinue reading “Psalm 6”

Psalm 5

Another Psalm of David from Book 1, this time to be recited with wind instruments. Asking God to hear his prayer during dangerous times, David is confident in drawing near. A Psalm packed with practical points for us, lets see what is happening. In vv.1-3 David’s complaint, or sigh, is brought before the Lord. Specifically,ContinueContinue reading “Psalm 5”

Psalm 4

Closely related to Psalm 3 and also written by David, it is possible that this prayer was born in the same circumstances. David begins with a cry for God to hear his prayer (v.1) and then shares his problem in v.2: “You men, how long will you try to turn my honour into shame? HowContinueContinue reading “Psalm 4”