Interesting linguistic features: chiasmus, a criss-cross structure, and a epizeuxis, repetition of a word or phrase in immediate succession. These poetic features help us recognise the linguistic beauty of the psalms. Even non-believers can appreciate the beautiful poetry and relevance of the psalms and for those who believe they add to our experience of intensely meeting God in His Word.
(Note to literature majors: What could you say to those who enjoy the language of the bible but deny its inspiration?)
- Choose a short title for each paragraph.
- What connections can you find between paragraphs? Look for a few, such as repeated words, similarities, contrasts, cause and effect. What significance or meaning do you find in each of these connections? Jot down the meanings.
- Then, look at the meanings, connections and facts and ask yourself: What is the main thing going on this passage? In other words, what is the central truth this passage is teaching? Write that truth in a sentence.
- What is the main thing the Lord is saying to me through this passage? Here are some possibilities. Select just one.
- Something to obey or an example to follow or avoid? What is it exactly? How can I soon practice it?
- A truth about the Lord I can rejoice in? In what part of my life is this truth especially encouraging?
- A promise I can take for a situation I’m in? Are there conditions in the promise which I need to fulfill? What are they? What does the Lord say He’ll do? (Memorizing the promise will help in the days ahead.) from Inductive Bible Study.
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