The Daily RootedHome StoriesGradesChurchesWhat's NewAbout
Bible:
Answer key (separate)‹ Back to chapter 143

Prints on letter paper in black and white. No answers are printed on the student sheet.

Psalms 143 · Grade 5

Guided by God's Good Spirit

Name Date

Read and Think

Psalm 143 is titled A Psalm by David. Christians have counted it among the penitential psalms. Its second verse is foundational: Don't enter into judgment with your servant, for in your sight no man living is righteous. In the New Testament, Paul echoes this in Romans 3:20 and Galatians 2:16. David's appeal rests on God's faithfulness, not his own goodness.

David describes deep distress. The enemy pursues my soul. He has made me live in dark places, as those who have been long dead. Therefore my spirit is overwhelmed within me. His response is to remember: I remember the days of old. I meditate on all your doings. Memory becomes longing: I spread out my hands to you. My soul thirsts for you, like a parched land.

The requests that follow are among the most beautiful prayers for guidance in Scripture. Cause me to hear your loving kindness in the morning, for I trust in you. Cause me to know the way in which I should walk, for I lift up my soul to you. Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness. David wants not only rescue but a changed life.

Show What You Know

  1. What makes verse 2 foundational?

  2. Which New Testament passages echo verse 2?

  3. How does memory turn into longing?

  4. What does David want besides rescue?

Crossword

45132

Across

  1. Teach me to do your ____.
  2. ____ to my petitions.

Down

  1. Therefore my ____ is overwhelmed within me.
  2. Cause me to hear your loving kindness in the ____.
  3. ____ me to do your will.

Think About It

  1. David asked God, Teach me to do your will. What is one area where you want God to teach you?

  2. David's hope rested on God's faithfulness, not his own goodness. Why is that good news?

Memory Verse

“Teach me to do your will, for you are my God. Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness.”

Psalms 143:10 (WEB)

Copy It

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for leading me. Help me . Amen.

Take It Home

For families: talk about these together.

  • How can you start your day thinking about God's love?
  • David said his spirit was overwhelmed within him. Which lesson about honest prayer is hardest for you to apply?
  • What is one way you could live out this chapter this week?

Scripture: World English Bible, public domain, eBible.org. © 2026 The Daily Rooted. Free to print and copy for church and home use; not for resale. Original line art.