The Characteristics of Those Who Dwell with the Lord

Psalm 15 outlines the virtues and moral standards that define a life acceptable to God. It serves as a mirror for personal introspection, challenging us to assess our lives according to God's expectations. Though it may seem daunting, it is not beyond reach, as God provides grace to live righteously. Ultimately, those who abide by these precepts will experience the immeasurable joy of dwelling in God's presence, standing firm like a tree planted by the waters, unshaken by the world's storms.

Heading: The Divine Inquiry (Verse 1)

The Psalm begins with a direct question to the Lord: "Who may dwell in Your sanctuary? Who may live on Your holy mountain?" Here, David seeks to understand the qualifications necessary to reside in God's holy presence.

Heading: The Godly Characteristics (Verses 2-3)

The Psalm progresses to describe the qualities required: "He who walks with integrity and practices righteousness, who speaks truth from his heart, who has no slander on his tongue, who does no harm to his neighbor, and casts no scorn on his friend." These verses elucidate the importance of righteous behavior and truthful speech in one's life.

Heading: Honour and Disgrace (Verse 4)

Verse 4 distinguishes those who honor God-fearing individuals and despise the wicked: "He despises the vile person but honors those who fear the LORD." It shows that godly people respect those who reverence God and reject the disgraceful.

Heading: Promises and Justice (Verse 5)

The final verse portrays the righteous as those who keep their promises even when it hurts and do not accept bribes against the innocent: "He lends his money without usury and does not accept a bribe against the innocent." The Psalm concludes with a promise, stating that those who act in this way will never be shaken.

Psalm 15 is a profound piece of biblical scripture penned by David, addressing the moral and ethical qualities expected of those who wish to dwell in God's presence. This short yet significant Psalm provides a timeless checklist for righteous living, serving as a moral compass for anyone seeking a closer relationship with the Almighty.

Righteousness
Integrity
Moral Character
Truthfulness
Obedience
WorshipGod's Presence
Righteous Living
Honesty
Slander
Justice
Good WorksDavid (Author)
God (The subject)
The Righteous (Audience)Zion (God's Holy Mountain)

1. How does Psalm 15 challenge our understanding of what it means to be a godly person?

2. How can the qualities listed in this Psalm apply to our modern-day lives?

3. In what ways can you strive to speak the truth from your heart as described in verse 2?

4. How does verse 3's description of not slandering with our tongues or doing harm to our neighbor apply in the context of social media?

5. How can you actively honor those who fear the Lord in your community as instructed in verse 4?

6. In a world where interest rates and usury are common, how can we interpret and apply verse 5's message today?

7. What does it mean to you personally, that those who live righteously will not be shaken?

8. How do the principles in Psalm 15 guide your daily decision-making process?

9. How does this Psalm deepen your understanding of righteousness beyond just following rules?

10. Can you share a situation where you had to keep a promise even when it was difficult? How did it affect your relationship with God and others?

11. How can we ensure we do not cast scorn on our friends, as mentioned in verse 3, in our daily interactions?

12. How does Psalm 15 challenge your understanding of financial ethics in terms of lending and receiving bribes?

13. How does Psalm 15 encourage you to live a life of integrity?

14. How does this Psalm guide your understanding of who is worthy to dwell in God's sanctuary?

15. In what ways can the church or a faith community embody the principles laid out in Psalm 15?

16. What steps can you take to apply the characteristics mentioned in this Psalm to your life?

17. How does your view of God change after reading and understanding Psalm 15?

18. Are there any characteristics listed in this Psalm that you find particularly challenging to uphold? Why?

19. How does the concept of 'dwell in your sanctuary' apply to your personal relationship with God?

20. After studying Psalm 15, how would you describe the characteristics of a person who truly "lives on God's holy mountain"?