Lesson 12: Thankfulness 141
Guide Bible Study
- Using commentary from the Study Guide, note the place of Psalm
103 in the section of hymns that comprise Psalms 90–106. - Ask someone to read Psalm 103:1–2. Suggest that David’s praise to
God is personal—he is commanding his own soul to praise God.
Write on the board, “Remember, _____, to praise God for
__.” Suggest that members fill in their own names and
at least one reason for praise—either aloud or silently. - Read aloud verses 3–5. Ask members to list the benefits that David
named. Record key phrases from members’ responses on the board.
Provide commentary on key phrases, such as the meaning of
redeem and satisfies, as well as explaining the symbol of the eagle. - Ask someone to read aloud verses 6–14. Comment on God’s being
a righteous judge, a watchful shepherd, and a loving father. Lead
members to consider which of these three descriptions of God
makes them most thankful at this moment in their lives. Invite
them to thank God silently. - Read verses 15–22. Ask for a show of hands in response to these
questions:
- Can you name all of your grandparents? (Do not name them
a loud.) - Can you name all of your great-grandparents?
- Can you name all of your great great-grandparents?
Say, The very fact that many of our descendants will not remem-
ber our names reminds us that we are transient. Ask someone to
read verses 15–19. Ask members to comment on what the psalmist
says endures forever. Ask, Is this a cause for thankfulness? If so, why?
- Ask the following, In Psalm 103, how many petitions did David
make to God? (None) Although God invites us to bring him our
petitions, should some prayers consist entirely of praise and thank-
fulness? Why or why not? - Say, In Luke 17:11–19, we see one of Jesus’ miracles. However, it is also
an example of the need to thank other people who bless us on our
journey. Ask someone to read the verses aloud.