August 31-September 6: Psalms 102-103; 110; 116-119; 127-128; 135-139; 146-150

Written By Center for Latter-day Saint Arts

"Let Every Thing That Hath Breath Praise the Lord"

Stephen Bartholomew (American, born 1958)

Canyonlands Island Sky Allegory

Oil on panel, 40 x 30 x .25 inches

Private collection

Used with permission

Psalm 102 expresses a heartfelt cry from someone overwhelmed by suffering, asking God for help and remembering that God is eternal and faithful. Psalm 103 celebrates God’s compassion, forgiveness, and mercy, encouraging people to praise Him for His kindness and care. Psalm 110 describes a powerful and righteous ruler appointed by God. Psalms 116–119 include prayers of gratitude for deliverance and the long meditation of Psalm 119, praises the wisdom and guidance found in God’s law. Psalms 127–128 celebrate the blessings of family and the importance of relying on God. While Psalms 135–139 praise God’s greatness, His knowledge of every person, and His constant presence. the book of Psalms closes with joyful calls for all creation to praise God.

One major theme in these psalms is praise—encouraging people to celebrate God’s goodness, power, and faithfulness. Another theme is the value of God’s guidance and wisdom, especially emphasized in Psalm 119. These psalms also highlight God’s deep knowledge of individuals and His care for their lives. They remind readers that security and blessings come from trusting God.

Enjoy Stephen Bartholomew's work "Canyonlands Island Sky Allegory" along with your study of the Psalms this week and consider what this painting conveys about life. These psalms continue to resonate today because they speak to both the struggles and joys of everyday life. They remind people that gratitude and reflection can help bring perspective during difficult moments. The emphasis on wisdom and guidance encourages individuals to seek thoughtful direction when making decisions. In a fast-paced world, these songs invite people to pause, reflect on life’s deeper meaning, and cultivate gratitude, humility, and hope.

Gospel Questions

1. If you wrote a personal book of Psalms how would you end it?

2. How can gratitude and reflection improve mental and emotional well-being?

3. Why is praise an important response during both good and difficult times?

For Children and Youth

Hi. These psalms are songs that thank God for His love, wisdom, and help in our lives. They remind us that God knows us, cares for us, and deserves our praise.

1. When has being grateful helped you in a difficult time?

More from the Art Companion

2026 Come, Follow Me Art Companion Old Testament
August 31-September 6: Psalms 102-103; 110; 116-119; 127-128; 135-139; 146-150
August 31-September 6: Psalms 102-103; 110; 116-119; 127-128; 135-139; 146-150

Psalm 102 expresses a heartfelt cry from someone overwhelmed by suffering, asking God for help and remembering that God is eternal and faithful. Psalm 103 celebrates God’s compassion, forgiveness, and mercy, encouraging people to praise Him for His kindness and care. Psalm 110 describes a powerful and righteous ruler appointed by God.

August 24-30: Psalms 49-51; 61-66; 69-72; 77-78; 85-86
August 24-30: Psalms 49-51; 61-66; 69-72; 77-78; 85-86

These psalms in this week's study include reflections on wisdom, repentance, worship, and God’s faithfulness throughout history. Warning that wealth cannot ultimately save people from death, and emphasizing sincere obedience and gratitude rather than empty religious rituals. Psalm 51 is a deeply personal prayer of repentance traditionally associated with David, asking God for forgiveness and a renewed heart.

August 17-23: Psalms 1-2; 8; 19-33; 40; 46
August 17-23: Psalms 1-2; 8; 19-33; 40; 46

The book of Psalms begins by contrasting the lives of the righteous and the wicked. Describing the righteous person as one who delights in God’s law and flourishes like a tree planted near water. Psalm 2 speaks of nations rebelling against God but ultimately being subject to His authority and the rule of His anointed king.

August 10-16: Job 1-3; 12-14; 19; 21-24; 38-40; 42
August 10-16: Job 1-3; 12-14; 19; 21-24; 38-40; 42

Job, a righteous man, abruptly loses his wealth, his children, and his health in a test of his faithfulness. Despite intense suffering, Job initially refuses to curse God, though he laments deeply and questions why he was born. His friends come to comfort him but argue that suffering must be the result of personal sin, while Job insists on his innocence and wrestles with difficult questions about justice and suffering.

Center for Latter-day Saint Arts
Next

August 24-30: Psalms 49-51; 61-66; 69-72; 77-78; 85-86