In this Song of Ascents not one single note is here by right. I deserve nothing; I have everything. God is the heart of this everything. I have everything - everything I need, and more. ... What I had - Jesus, God, the Kingdom of God - was all I wanted and needed. I didn't want anything different. I only wanted more of what I had. (from the Introduction)

Codes hidden for 3,000 years unveil the origin of the fifteen Songs of Ascents. Mysterious marks in medieval manuscripts disclose the lost temple song. Rabbinic traditions reveal the place of the ark of the covenant. And the secret message of the Book of Psalms is laid bare. David Mitchell's Songs of Ascents is a fresh direction in the study of the Psalms. Professor John Barton, Oriel College, Oxford. The Songs of Ascents establishes a long-overdue link between the worlds of Biblical Studies and Near Eastern Archaeomusicology. Mitchell addresses the issue with great competence and meticulousness, and depicts a credible picture of how the psalms would have been sung in ancient Jerusalem. Professor Richard Dumbrill, University of London. David Mitchell takes just one collection of fifteen psalms to create a scholarly and engaging account which brings together, in an original but careful way, the disciplines of the Hebrew language, psalmody, and music. For anyone interested in how the psalms functioned as ancient Temple Songs, and how this might apply to our appreciation of them in synagogues and churches today, this book is an absolute gem." Professor Susan Gillingham, Worcester College, Oxford.

The NIV is the world's best-selling modern translation, with over 150 million copies in print since its first full publication in 1978. This highly accurate and smooth-reading version of the Bible in modern English has the largest library of printed and electronic support material of any modern translation.

The Book of Psalms represents a rich tapestry of prayer and praise. Some reflect a texture of deep despair, others glow with a deep peace in the Lord's strength, still others bubble with an exuberant exaltation in the Most High God, reaching out to God from every imaginable experience. In this study you will enter into the experience of the Psalms. You will study thoughtfully. But more than that, you will learn how to pray, how to find peace in the midst of turmoil, to be thankful. You will begin to follow the pattern of the psalmists as you begin to praise. Twelve detailed lessons, each with probing discussion questions, can be used for personal enrichment, as a study by small groups and classes, and for preparation by teachers and preachers.

Since Eugene Peterson first wrote this spiritual formation classic nearly forty years ago, hundreds of thousands of Christians have been inspired by Peterson's prophetic and pastoral wisdom and the call to deeper discipleship found in the Songs of Ascents (Psalms 120-134). This special commemorative edition includes a new preface taken from Leif Peterson's eulogy at his father's memorial service.

Ever wish someone could give you a big handle on the entire Bible without years of study? Well, this book not only promises to give you that big handle—it will deliver on the promise. You should be asking, how is this possible? The Bible is one story told over and over again, with many variations on the same theme. This structure is the Bible’s DNA. This basic seven-point pattern is the heartbeat of the Creation. It is the cycle of a human day and a human life. It is the pattern of the Tabernacle. It is the process of agriculture. It undergirds the speeches and Laws of God. It orders the rise and fall of nations and empires. It is also the structure of our worship. It is the rhythm of Christ, and it will open the Bible for you like never before.

An Essential Guide to Understanding and Leading Worship Worship leaders are adrift in a sea of worship resources, but, incredibly, no single book provides a simple introduction to worship and worship leading. Essential Worship is a concise, easy-to-read primer on the basics of worship theology and practice. Each concept is introduced clearly and concisely. Diagrams, charts, and bulleted lists make the information easy to digest. And preparation and reflection questions help readers apply the material to their own church context. Whether one is a beginner or an experienced worship leader, readers from all traditions will find in this resource a solid foundation for future success. It is particularly well-suited for the first-time worship or praise band leader, as well as for pastors who want to be more intentional about the music in their services.