JANUARY 5, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: Behaviors that Lead to a Blessed Life
Psalm 1:1-6
It's a new year. What are you asking God to do in your life, marriage, family, or church over the next twelve months?
Are you happy with your life? How do you navigate the twists and turns of life? Have you ever asked the question, "How did I end up here?"
The Psalms are real and relevant to life. The Psalmist was honest with God. Do you believe many believers are wearing masks, pretending that life is better than what it is? Are you honest with God? What are your priorities? In your study group, discuss your answers to these questions. It's healthy to be honest with God and other people.
Do you desire to live a blessed life? In Psalm 1, the Psalmist gives insights into behaviors that lead to a blessed life. May 2025 be a year of blessings, growth, and maturity!
1. Handle Relationships with Care (Psalm 1:1). How do you hold a baby? How do you help a person who has fallen and sustained injuries? You handle those people with care. Relationships can be a blessing or a burden. What does the Psalmist mean by the words, "Walks, stands, and sits?" Give examples of how relationships can draw you near the Lord or pull you away from Him.
2. Study Scripture with Consistency (Psalm 1:2-3). How often do you read and study God's Word? God commanded Joshua to be in the Word daily. The Psalmist challenged God's people to be in the Book every day. If you're going to live a blessed life, you must invest time in the Bible. Share with your study group how, when, and where you study the Bible. His Word changes lives.
3. Reach Nonbelievers with Conviction (Psalm 1:4-6). In your city, some people are lost without Jesus. How do you reach them with the gospel? The Psalmist contrasted the lives of the wicked with the godly. Take a moment and identify the differences. As you begin this new year, whom are you praying for by name to be saved? How does the Lord want to use you to reach him or her?
Living a blessed life is possible in 2025!
In your study group, before you pray together, answer the following three questions.
1. How do you develop relationships that draw you near the Lord?
2. In what ways has your time in the Word changed your life?
3. How do you turn an everyday conversation into a gospel conversation?
We hope you'll worship with us on Sunday. We're praying for you in 2025.
Thank you for connecting with FBC Clarksville. Our prayer is to worship God, love people, share Jesus, and make disciples.
Have a blessed first Sunday of 2025!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
JANUARY 19, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: He Loves Us!
Psalm 136:23-26
As you begin your study this week, take a few moments and read the following Bible verses: John 3:16, Romans 5:8, 1 John 4:8, 16, and Ephesians 2:4-5.
Can one sermon change your life? This week's message is personal and profound. God loves you! Do you believe that statement? Why is it hard for many people to accept that God loves them? How have you experienced God's love this past week? Allow time for group members to share their answers and stories.
Where would your life be today apart from God's love? The Psalmist was clear in Psalm 136 that God's steadfast love endures forever. God's love is personal, sacrificial, and unconditional.
1. Because God Loves Us, Let's Taste His Goodness (Psalm 136:23). Why do we observe the Lord's Supper several times a year? That act of obedience allows us to remember the Lord's love and sacrifice for us. When we were dead in our trespasses, God loved us (Ephesians 2:4-5). Share a time when you experienced a profound sense of God's presence and love.
2. Because God Loves Us, Let's Trust His Grace (Psalm 136:24). How do you handle criticism and opposition? We have an enemy, and his goal is to steal, kill, and destroy (John 10:10). In your group, take a moment and sing or read the words to the great hymn, "Amazing Grace." Why is His grace still amazing? As you rejoice, remember His grace saves, equips, and sustains.
3. Because God Loves Us, Let's Treasure His Generosity (Psalm 136:25-26). What do you treasure in your life? Antiques? Relationships? Traditions? Let's treasure God's love and generosity. He provides for our needs, not wants (Philippians 4:19). When was the last time you thanked God for His generosity? In your group, praise and thank the Lord for the many ways He has blessed you.
As you conclude this week's study, here are three questions to discuss:
1. How do you apply the truth of "God's steadfast love" to your life, marriage, family, or church?
2. Why do many people feel unworthy of the personal, sacrificial, and unconditional love of God?
3. How are you sharing the truth about God's love with other people?
We hope you'll worship with us this week. Can one sermon make a difference in your life? By the power of the gospel and the Holy Spirit, the correct answer is yes. We're praying for you this week.
May the Lord show us His glory this weekend!
Blessings!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
JANUARY 26, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: The Heart of Worship
Psalm 138:1-8
How do you define worship?
A worship song came out many years ago entitled, "The Heart of Worship." If possible, and in your group, listen to the song or at least read the words. What does this song teach you about authentic, biblical worship? Jesus is the heart of worship!
As a church, our vision statement says that we exist to worship God, love people, share Jesus, and make disciples. How do you see your church worshiping God? How do you worship the Lord? He is worthy to be worshiped!
In Psalm 138, David shared (by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit) what matters in worship. As you know, worship isn't limited to buildings, styles, or times. God calls His children to worship Him as a lifestyle.
Take time to read and discuss the following three questions:
1. Is Biblical Proclamation Prominent in Worship? David was a worshiper and a worship leader. Are you worshiping the Lord with your whole heart? Discuss the biblical importance of praise, preaching, and posture in worship. How do you see those biblical realities practiced in your church's worship and your worship? Take a moment and praise the Lord for His love and faithfulness.
2. Is Personal Thanksgiving Present in Worship? David was a thankful child of the Lord. Thanksgiving is more than a holiday in November. An authentic worshiper is a thankful person. Have you thanked the Lord today for your life, salvation, health, family, friends, church, or belongings? Now is a great time to thank the Lord for His presence, power, peace, and promises.
3. Is God's Faithfulness Personalized in Worship? David was honest with the Lord. He confessed that he was "in the midst of trouble." What troubles are you facing currently? Every person faces storms in life. In the center of the most severe personal storms, you can remain confident of God's faithfulness. Open your Bible and read Romans 8:28. How does that verse comfort you?
In your final minutes together, discuss these three questions:
1. How does the Lord's love and faithfulness impact your approach to worship?
2. How do you express thankfulness to God in your everyday life and during worship gatherings?
3. How are you honest with God in your private worship and during corporate worship gatherings?
Thank you for studying God's Word with us. We're praying for you. May the Lord lead us to worship Him as the heart of worship. He alone is worthy.
Have a blessed rest of your week. We'll see you on Sunday.
Grace and Peace!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
FEBRUARY 2, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: BETTER IS ONE DAY
Psalm 84:1-12
What is your walk with God like? Is it a chore? Is it predictable? Is it a thrill?
In Psalm 84, the Psalmist desired to be with God. Do you love the presence of God and desire to be with Him?
As you study this Psalm, what do the words "Gittith" and "Selah" mean? Psalm 84 is a worship song. As you study these inspired verses, you'll need to focus on musical instruments, the pace of life, and the benefits of rest and solitude.
Here are three biblical truths from Psalm 84:
1. Understand that Contentment Leads to Praise (Psalm 84:1-4). The Psalmist didn't desire the stuff of this world; he desired the presence of God. Are you content in life? The Psalmist arrived at the destination of contentment. It's a place that God desires for every person who calls Him Father. Can you name a person who models contentment? Share a few details about his or her life.
2. Understand that Intimacy Leads to Usefulness (Psalm 84:5-8). The Psalmist talked about "the Valley of Baca." What does that place mean? How do Psalm 84:6 and Psalm 23:4 comfort God's people? The Psalmist talked about two birds. What do you know about the "sparrow" and the "swallow?" God uses people who are intimate with Him. Is your intimacy with God what He desires?
3. Understand that Trust Leads to Protection (Psalm 84:9-12). The Psalmist experienced the protection of the Lord. How has the Lord protected you? Matt Redman wrote a worship song years ago entitled, "Better is One Day." Take a moment and listen to that song. What a joy for churches to know and sing God's Word! Please know that those who trust in the Lord are blessed, not burdened.
As you come to the end of this week's study, take the time to answer the following three questions:
1. What are some key characteristics of someone who models a life of contentment? Share your ideas with your group.
2. How is your intimacy with God a priority? Explain your answer to the group.
3. How does your daily study of God's Word impact your trust in the Lord? Give your testimony to your group.
We're excited to worship with you this week. Thank you for connecting with FBC Clarksville.
May the Lord allow you to worship Him, love people, share Jesus, and make disciples!
Grace and Peace!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
FEBRUARY 9, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: a RESPECTFUl response to royalty
Psalm 95:1-11
Worship is a biblical and relevant subject. As you begin this week's study, read the following verses from God's Word: Genesis 22:5 and Job 1:20. What do these verses reveal about worship?
Psalm 95 is considered one of the Royal Psalms (Psalm 93-100). The people of Israel would sing this psalm on their way to the temple. How do you prepare each week for the gathering of God's people?
Why do local churches gather on Sundays? Why do you assemble with other people? God's people don't gather to be entertained or to please people. His people assemble to worship in spirit and truth. God is worthy to be worshiped.
What is happening in Heaven at this moment? Worship is taking place. People are bowing on their faces before the Lord. Saints are surrendering their crowns before the throne. Worship is alive and well in Heaven. Is worship alive and well in your church and life?
Consider the following three biblical principles from Psalm 95:
1. Approach the King Together (Psalm 95:1-2). In today's culture, many people say they like Jesus; they just don't like His church. That admission must break God's heart. Jesus gave His life for the church. Take a moment and discuss these two questions: What is congregational singing like in your church? What does the phrase "the rock of our salvation" mean?
2. Adore the King Together (Psalm 95:3-7). The Psalmist continued the theme of togetherness. "Lone Ranger" Christianity isn't taught in God's Word. His people need one another. The focus of the biblical text is that the Lord is the Creator and Redeemer. Pause now and adore the Lord for His creation and salvation. Share words of praise for His goodness, glory, and grace.
3. Address the King Together (Psalm 95:7-11). God isn't silent. He speaks through His Word, the Holy Spirit, prayer, circumstances, and other people. Do you know how to hear God's voice? A book worth investing in is "How to Listen to God" by Dr. Charles Stanley. Hearing God's voice is essential. What is meant by the reference to Meribah and Massah?
As you conclude this week's study, take the time to discuss the next three questions:
1. Is your private worship changing you?
2. Is your public worship inspiring others?
3. If not, why not?
We hope you'll worship with us on Sunday. The Lord is inviting you to encounter Him, and you need the fellowship of other believers.
His church matters!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
FEBRUARY 16, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: god doesn’t play hide-and-seek
Psalm 19:1-14
If you listed every food item you ate in a day, would your list be healthy or unhealthy? Your diet affects the quality, fruitfulness, and longevity of your life. Pause for a moment and reflect on your spiritual diet. How are you feeding your spiritual hunger?
Do you feel like God isn't speaking to you? Do you long for God to say something? If God spoke to you, would you listen? God continues to reveal Himself. Talk about the various ways God speaks today (Bible, Holy Spirit, prayer, circumstances, and other people). Give examples of when you heard God's voice. How did hearing from the Lord change your life?
Psalm 19 was written by David under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. David wanted people to know that God doesn't play hide-and-seek. God wants you to know Him, spend time with Him, walk with Him, serve Him, and glorify Him.
Here are three ways God reveals Himself from Psalm 19:
1. See God's Witness in His Sky (Psalm 19:1-6). The heavens and the earth didn't just happen. God created them (Genesis 1:1). David testified that God's creation reveals His glory. When was the last time you adored the Lord by looking at a sunrise, a sunset, or the millions of stars in the sky? Using Psalm 19:1-6, what does creation reveal about God?
2. Share God's Witness in His Scriptures (Psalm 19:7-12). David possessed a high view of Scripture. What are your views/convictions about God's Word? In your group, share how you read and study the Bible. How has God's Word changed your life and matured you as a disciple? Using Psalm 19:7-12, what do the Scriptures reveal about God?
3. Study God's Witness in His Servants (Psalm 19:13-14). David identified himself as a servant. He prayed to live a blameless life before the Lord. What does it mean to be the Lord's servant? David confessed his "hidden faults." What sins do you need to confess? David ended Psalm 19 with a prayer to please God. Using Psalm 19:13-14, what do God's servants reveal about God?
Here are three action steps you can practice from this study: (1) Look into God's sky. You'll see His glory. (2) Live by God's Scriptures. You'll see His greatness. (3) Learn from God's servants. You'll see His grace.
Take a few moments and answer these final three questions:
1. How do you worship the Creator and not the creation?
2. How do you get the most out of your time in God's Word?
3. How does your prayer life need to grow?
In your group, pray Psalm 19:14 together. May the Lord bless you and your study group!
We hope to worship with you on Sunday. You're prayed for at FBC Clarksville.
Have a wonderful rest of your week!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
FEBRUARY 23, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: the stakes are high!
Psalm 78:1-8
God loves to use young people. Name a few young people whom God used in the Bible. Talk about their stories, explaining their strengths and weaknesses. How is the Lord using young people in your church? A healthy church consists of multiple generations. What's the future of a church when the youngest member is in his or her sixties?
This week's sermon and study come from Psalm 78. How is the Lord using you and your church to reach the coming generation? Take a moment and talk about the following two verses: Galatians 6:7 and Judges 2:10. When it comes to reaching, teaching, and unleashing the coming generation, the stakes are high.
Who is Asaph? What is a Maskil? What's the biblical challenge of Psalm 78? God is calling His people to pass the spiritual baton to the coming generation. How are you and your church obeying God's call? Share a story or two about how you see young people being used by God to advance His kingdom.
Here are three biblical principles from Psalm 78:1-8:
1. God Unveiled His Divine Revelation (Psalm 78:1-5a). God reveals His ways, will, and Word. What do the following words mean (give ear, teaching)? The Psalmist is talking about the Bible. Discuss in your group what you believe about the Bible. Is God's Word inerrant and infallible? How has the Bible changed your life and walk with the Lord?
2. God Explained Our Daily Responsibility (Psalm 78:5b-6). God expects His children to live responsibly. Believers need to grow in Christ, share the gospel, lead their families, and participate in a local church. What happens when God's people ignore their responsibilities? How are you teaching the works of God? When do you talk about the Word of God? Seize every teachable moment.
3. God Revealed His Desired Results (Psalm 78:7-8). How does God bless obedience, and how does He handle disobedience? It's clear in Psalm 78 that God wants the coming generation to know and obey Him. If you have kids or grandkids, do they know Him as Savior? How are you teaching them to follow Him as Lord? There's a battle for the souls of the coming generation.
Pause in your group for a time of prayer. Pray specifically for the following groups of people:
Your kids and grandkids
Parents and grandparents
Young people in your church
The unreached coming generation
Student pastors and leaders
Take a few minutes and discuss the final three questions: You may want to share your answers with your senior pastor and/or student pastor.
1. What are the potential consequences if parents, grandparents, and the church fail to reach the coming generation?
2. How can we as a church create a culture where Scripture isn't just studied but lived out?
3. How can the church support parents and grandparents in their role as primary spiritual influencers in the lives of their children and grandchildren?
We're praying for a great weekend of Bible study and worship. We hope you'll join us.
Grace and Peace!
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
MARCH 2, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
GUEST PREACHER: DR. HAYES WICKER
Retired Pastor, FBC Naples, Florida
MARCH 9, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
GUEST PREACHER: DR. TOMMY GREEN
Retired Executive Director, Florida Baptist Convention
MARCH 16, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
THE LOVE OF GOD - Dr. Ronny Raines
Joh 3:16
march 23, 2025, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: i lift up my eyes
Psalm 121:1-8
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
MARCH 30, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
GUEST PREACHER: Bob Russell
Retired Pastor, Southeast Christian Church
APRIL 6, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: NO ONE IS IMMUNE!
Psalm 51:1-17
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
APRIL 13, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: A Person’s life behind closed doors
Psalm 32:1-11
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
APRIL 20, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: the belief of champions!
Psalm 146:1-10
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
APRIL 27, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: BEALE STREET, BOARDROOMS, AND BREAKFAST TABLES
Psalm 42:1-11
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
MAY 4, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: now, thats unbelievable!
Psalm 37:1-8
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.
MAY 11, 2025 STUDY GUIDE
Lessons from the Psalms: the hard work of the christian life
Psalm 141:1-10
View all of the "Lessons from the Psalms" Sermon Series Study Guides at fbct.org/psalms.