Psalm 14 initially seems to offer a very bleak assessment of the human condition. But, on reflection, we find that '�the fool' has a way out of darkness'� offered by God in his kindness. He takes the initiative in saving all who call on him.

Being God's Chosen in no way guarantees an easy life of prosperity and harmony, for so often David is the one crying to God for help, as he does in Psalm 6. Elsewhere in the Psalms we read that God will never despise a humble, broken and contrite heart. Here, there is great assurance'� ground in the character of God, especially his unfailing love.

Psalms 9 and 10 are a pair which give voice to David's urgent plea for help and for the rescue of the defenseless. He is assured by the character of God, and yet the wicked still seem to prosper. They are brazen in their rejection of God. Nevertheless God is shown to be the King, the defender of the fatherless and the one who brings justice.

Psalm 8 is a Psalm of Praise. It is a song founded on the person and character of God, on his gracious acts for humanity, to be used to extoll his name in public worship. In this Psalm we also recognise the relationship between God and humanity made in his image. Although so far beneath God's greatness, he gifts us glory and honour'� most especially in the incarnation of his Son.

Psalm 5 is a deeply personal cry of lament, urging God to do justice. David leaves his request with God and depends upon him for the outcome, knowing that God is always a refuge for his people.

The question posed by Psalm 1 is answered in Psalm 2. Who is the Lord's Righteous One, '�the man' that was the subject of Psalm 1? Who is it that truly delights in God's word, whose work the Lord propers, yielding fruit in season, enduring year after year? Psalm 2 gives us his profile, introduced in v2 as '�the Lord's Anointed'. He is God's Son, the true King who rules all the nations.