1. What does the psalmist's longing for God's dwelling place signify about his relationship with God?

2. In what ways can we apply the psalmist's intense longing for God in our personal spiritual lives?

3. How do verses 1-4 challenge our current view of worship?

4. How does the metaphor of the Valley of Baca apply to your own life experiences?

5. How can hardships or trials (Valley of Baca) be transformed into places of spiritual growth (springs)?

6. What does the psalmist mean by saying that those whose strength is in the Lord go from "strength to strength"?

7. What is the significance of the psalmist declaring that a day in God's courts is better than a thousand elsewhere?

8. How does the statement "I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked" challenge societal notions of success and status?

9. How do verses 8-12 reflect the psalmist's trust in God's goodness and protection?

10. In what ways have you experienced God as a "sun and shield" in your life?

11. How does this psalm teach us about the blessedness of trusting in God?

12. How might understanding the blessedness of dwelling in God's presence change your daily routine?

13. How can you cultivate a similar desire for God's presence as the psalmist demonstrates?

14. How does the psalmist's depiction of God's dwelling place challenge or affirm your understanding of heaven?

15. How does the longing for God's presence inspire your own prayer life?

16. What are some practical ways to express your trust in God's goodness in your daily life?

17. What steps can you take to foster a deeper sense of worship and connection with God?

18. What aspects of this Psalm resonate most with your current life situation and why?

19. How does this Psalm inspire you to find joy in God’s presence, even in times of adversity?

20. How can the themes of this Psalm influence your attitudes and actions towards others in your community?