1. Study Psalm 3. How would you characterize verse 1?

This is the address element of the Psalm; it describes whom the lament is addressed to. "O Lord" is the psalmist's call to God.

2. How would you characterize verse 2?

The complaint element follows; it describes the heartfelt distress of trouble and why help is being sought. At the end of verse 1, the psalmist describes numerous foes and in verse 2, the taunts of his enemies are described. Parallelism is at the core of Hebrew poetry and this verse is an example of synonymous parallelism, which is the most common form of Hebrew poetry. In this example: the second line advances the concept of the first (",..how my adversaries have increase!" and "Many are rising up against me.").

3. How would you characterize verses 3-6?

Verses 3-6 are the confession of trust element; it is a declaration of trust in the Lord. Described as a "shield," the psalmist finds comfort in the metaphorical description of God's protection. There is trust in protection, in answered cries, and while asleep. So resolute is his trust that he is fearless of the opposition.

4. How would you characterize verse 7?

Verse 7 has two elements: petition / deliverance and assurance / praise. The first part, the petition ("Arise,..! Deliver me,..!"), is a plea for help. It is another example of synonymous parallelism. The latter part of verse 7 is the assurance; it is the complete confidence that God will deliver. In this synonymous parallelism, the imagery is one of a knockout punch, and the psalmist writes as though God has already destroyed his foes.

5. How would you characterize verse 8?

Verse 8 is the final element: praise. The psalmist praises God for His faithfulness.