Honey from the RockPsalm 81
CFC Small Group Bible Study Summer 2012
Introduction
“All life is an experiment.”
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
“Life is luck.”
-Donald Trump
“Life is pain.”
-The Princess Bride
Many have tried to answer the age-old question: “What is life?” God’s answer is:life is a journey. Life is not a random, inconsequential series of events, but it has a destination and a purpose. We are all on our way somewhere and God has a purpose for the roads He leads us down, even the tough ones.
Commentary
Background of Psalm 81: This psalm was likely sung/recited at the Feast of Tabernacles (Psalm 81:3) – an annual Hebrew holiday that commemorated God’s faithfulness to Israel during her 40 years in the desert.
1 Cor. 10:3-6 This passage in 1 Corinthians confirms that Israel’s experience in the desert is spiritually symbolic and intended to teach us today. Just like the Israelites, believers have been delivered from slavery and are en route to the Promised Land. The path, however, is through the wilderness, and like the Israelites, believers have the choice to either trust God or turn to idols along the way.
[81:7] the waters of Meribah Meribah was a site along Israel’s journey where the people complained about the lack of water. The term Meribah literally means “quarreling.”
[81:12] So I gave them over This does not mean that God gave up on the Israelites but rather that He allowed them to make their choice to sin.
[81:16] honey from the rock The rock represents Christ and honey symbolizes the sustenance he provides.
Discussion
- Share about a memorable road trip or traveling experience you had. What made it special?
- Read Psalm 81. Israel’s journey through the wilderness is meant to be an example and lesson for us. What can we learn about going through wilderness times in our lives?
- Please share something that convicted you today and how you plan to apply it this week.