Psalm 85
Psalm 85 reflects a prayer for God's restoration, favor, and forgiveness. The psalmist recalls God’s past mercies, prays for renewed blessings, and expresses hope for future restoration. It is both a communal lament and a hopeful anticipation of God's salvation.
Psalm 85:1-3 (NKJV)
1 Lord, You have been favorable to Your land; You have brought back the captivity of Jacob.
2 You have forgiven the iniquity of Your people; You have covered all their sin. Selah
3 You have taken away all Your wrath; You have turned from the fierceness of Your anger.
The psalmist remembers God's past acts of mercy, including the restoration of the people and the land from captivity. The emphasis is on God’s forgiveness of their sins, which brought relief from divine anger. These verses set a hopeful tone, suggesting that just as God forgave in the past, He can do so again.
Psalm 85:4-7 (NKJV)
4 Restore us, O God of our salvation, and cause Your anger toward us to cease.
5 Will You be angry with us forever? Will You prolong Your anger to all generations?
6 Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?
7 Show us Your mercy, Lord, and grant us Your salvation.
The psalmist pleads for God to renew His favor, recognizing that only God can bring true restoration and joy. The repeated questioning reflects a sense of urgency and longing for God's mercy. There is confidence that salvation is near and that God's people will once again rejoice in His presence.
Psalm 85:8-9 (NKJV)
8 I will hear what God the Lord will speak, For He will speak peace To His people and to His saints; But let them not turn back to folly.
9 Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, That glory may dwell in our land.
The psalmist expresses a willingness to listen for God's word, expecting a message of peace for His faithful ones. The warning not to return to foolishness highlights the need for spiritual vigilance. God's salvation is promised to those who revere Him, leading to the manifestation of His glory among the people.
Psalm 85:10-13 (NKJV)
10 Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed.
11 Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12 Yes, the Lord will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase.
13 Righteousness will go before Him, And shall make His footsteps our pathway.
These verses describe a beautiful harmony between God’s attributes—mercy, truth, righteousness, and peace—coming together in perfect balance. The imagery of truth sprouting from the earth and righteousness descending from heaven portrays a time of divine blessing and abundance. God's goodness will result in prosperity for the land, with righteousness leading the way for His people, guiding them in His paths. This closing section offers assurance that God’s future actions will be marked by both justice and compassion.