Tyndale Open Study NotesPsalms 34

This wisdom psalm includes a thanksgiving song of praise (Psalm 34:1–7) that celebrates the Lord for caring for and protecting godly sufferers. It also includes an invitation to wisdom (Psalm 34:8–14) and explains wisdom concerning the Lord’s care for the needy and the suffering of the wicked (Psalm 34:15–22).

The psalmist encourages those in need to join him in praise.

Abimelech is another name for Achish (see 1 Samuel 21:10–15). The body of the psalm makes no explicit connection to this event.

The psalmist describes his experiences of answered prayer.

The angel of the LORD showed God's presence during the journey through the wilderness. He protected Israel from Egypt's forces (Exodus 14:19–20), and he will guard all those who are godly (Psalm 91:11).

The godly encourage everyone to seek wisdom, to fear the Lord, and to place themselves under the protection of the Lord’s angel.

Fear of the Lord includes reverence and respect, and it motivates a life of wisdom (see Proverbs 1:7; 9:10).

Wisdom has three parts:

1. fearing the Lord (Psalm 34:11),

2. doing good (Psalm 34:14), and

3. rejecting evil (Psalm 34:13).

Anyone who listens, even children, can become wise followers of God.

Peter quotes this passage in his instructions for peaceful living (1 Peter 3:10–12).

Godly people choose their words carefully. Speaking evil and telling lies is unwise (see Psalm 10:7; compare 17:1).

The way of peace leads to harmony and order, whereas evil destroys them (see Psalm 37:11).

The Lord distinguishes between wise and foolish people; he shows his concern for the wise by rescuing them from trouble (Psalm 34:15, 17–20). However, God destroys the foolish (Psalm 34:16, 21).

Those who are brokenhearted have a spirit of deep sorrow for sin and a strong dependence on the Lord. God accepts this humble spirit as a proper sacrifice (Psalm 51:17). The wicked hate people who are brokenhearted (Psalm 109:16). But the Lord heals them and restores them (Psalm 147:3; see Isaiah 57:15; 61:1).

The godly might suffer, but the Lord will reward them in the end. Similarly, the wicked might prosper for a time, but ultimately they will perish (Psalms 1:6; 34:15–16).

• Bones represent a person's whole self (see Psalm 6:2).

• not one of them will be broken: John applied this statement to Jesus at the crucifixion (John 19:36).