Here are some questions based on last Sunday’s sermon text (Psalm 139), in case they’re helpful to you for personal growth or group discussion…

• [1-6] God’s knowledge of your thoughts, words, and actions is personal, intimate, and comprehensive. God knows you better than you know yourself. Where, do you think, are some of the specific gaps where God’s knowledge of you is higher than your knowledge of yourself? What are some of the ramifications of God’s complete knowledge of you? How do you feel about being known by him? How is being known by him different from being known by anyone else, even the most intimate companion?

• [7-12] It is a normal instinct for sinners to want to flee from God’s presence, attention, and scrutiny. Why? Do you think sinners are aware that escaping God’s presence is impossible? If so, how can we go on fleeing? In what ways do you wish you could escape God’s presence? How do you feel when you realize that you cannot?

• [13-16] A human being is “intricately woven” by God, indeed! Do you ever wonder at the sheer complexity of your body and soul? Does that wonder ever turn to thanksgiving to the one who made you, to the praise of his understanding and creativity?

• [17-18] We will never fully appreciate the magnitude of God’s constant thoughts about us. Whether we’re sleeping or awake, thinking of him or not, he is always paying close attention to us. Is that a precious comfort to you? Have you looked to comfort others by telling them about God’s constant attention?

• [19-22] God’s personal, intimate knowledge of you is the basis for your new identity in Christ. You are given the privilege of no longer identifying with God’s enemies, but with God himself. His enemies have become your enemies. Have you found the freedom in this Gospel truth to boldly pray for God to destroy his enemies, even though in and of yourself you would be counted as one of them? Or do you feel too hypocritical to pray this way?

• [23-24] The proper response to being known by God is to invite greater intimacy, to be open to God’s searching sight in ways that show you where you need to change in order to be more like Jesus. God’s knowing you is the foundation for your sanctification. Have you asked God to convict you of your sins, to reveal where you have deceived yourself, to know you in such a way that you are transformed? Do you imagine that would be a painful process or a pleasant one. Why?