Psalms 61 · Grade 5

Higher Than I

Name Date

Read and Think

The title of Psalm 61 says it is by David, for the Chief Musician, for a stringed instrument. David cries from the end of the earth, a phrase that suggests distance from Jerusalem and from the place where God was worshiped. His heart is overwhelmed, literally faint or weak.

His prayer, Lead me to the rock that is higher than I, admits that he cannot climb to safety on his own. God must lead him. He grounds his request in experience: For you have been a refuge for me, a strong tower from the enemy. Past faithfulness gives present confidence.

David then uses two pictures of nearness: dwelling in God's tent and taking refuge in the shelter of his wings. He prays that the king will be enthroned in God's presence forever, guarded by loving kindness and truth. The psalm ends with a promise of daily faithfulness: So I will sing praise to your name forever, that I may fulfill my vows daily.

Show What You Know

What does the phrase end of the earth suggest?
Why must God lead David to the rock?
How does past faithfulness help David pray?
What two pictures of nearness does David use?

Crossword

Across

Lead me to the rock that is ____ than I.
A strong ____ from the enemy.

Down

I will call to you when my ____ is overwhelmed.
Lead me to the ____ that is higher than I.
I will dwell in your ____ forever.

Think About It

How can remembering what God has done before help you trust him today?
What would it look like to keep a vow to God daily?

Memory Verse

“From the end of the earth, I will call to you when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I.”

Psalms 61:2 (WEB)

Copy It

Prayer

Dear God, thank You for being my rock. Help me . Amen.

Take It Home

For families: talk about these together.

Why do you need God to lift you up?
How can daily praise build trust?
What is one way you could live out this chapter this week?