Psalm 34: Is a hymn of thanksgiving for God’s protection against Abimelech

Psalm 34 is a hymn of thanksgiving for God’s protection against Abimelech; it is also a wisdom hymn because the wise are those who live out their lives trusting in God. This Psalm is written in an imperfect acrostic style.

1-3 – The singer invites the humble to bless the LORD at all times. The idea behind the word bless is to speak a good word about someone. When a person blesses God, he speaks a good word about God’s kindness and generosity. To magnify the LORD is to tell how great he is.

4-7 – The singer gives specific instances of God’s kindness. He sought the LORD, and the LORD answered him. Those who look to the LORD are not disappointed. The poor man cried, and the saved him from all his troubles.

8-14 – Therefore, the singer encourages all to fear the LORD. Fear the LORD and seek him. Note that a holy life is defined as how we deal with others. Keep your tongue from evil. Turn away from evil, do good, seek peace and pursue it.

15-22 – The LORD cares for his faithful one who trust him. The broken hearted and the crushed in spirit are those who have been humbled. The Psalm is clear that both the righteous and the wicked will have affliction, the difference between the two is their outcomes. The LORD delivers the righteous, but the LORD will condemn and slay the wicked.

Creators and Guests

Host

Andrew

Andrew is a master storyteller. Having flown multiengine, bomber planes; practiced law; and earned a seminary degree, he draws upon a deep bank of experience and knowledge. Yeah, he is one of those guys who knows Greek. But coming out of a working-class home, he speaks plainly and clearly. His podcasts are thought-provoking and entertaining. His passion for God’s Word comes out in every episode.

Producer

Tom Kjeldgaard

Follower of Christ, Maker, Business Consultant, Husband, Father

What is Biblical Reflections?

Join host Andrew as he walks us through sections of scripture allowing us to reflect on what God is telling us. Yeah, he is one of those guys who knows Greek. But coming out of a working-class home, he speaks plainly and clearly. His podcasts are thought-provoking and entertaining. His passion for God’s Word comes out in every episode.