Psalms | Chapter Summaries + Study QuestionsSample

PSALM 88

I CRY OUT DAY AND NIGHT BEFORE YOU

As an example of bringing despair and depression before God, the author of this psalm believes he is as good as dead. The author both refers to God as his salvation and also blames God for his misfortune. This psalm highlights the internal struggle of viewing God as both merciful and vengeful when evaluating one’s own circumstances.

The author questions God, asking if steadfast love is declared in the grave. What the author doesn’t know at this time is that God does work wonders in the grave, and His steadfast love would later be declared in the empty grave of Christ.

Psalm 88:10 ESV - "Do you work wonders for the dead? Do the departed rise up to praise you?"

STUDY QUESTIONS

• Read Psalm 88:3-7.
• Look up the meaning of the word “Sheol.”
• How do these verses capture the meaning of this word?