Asaph writes a psalm here that is a prayer in light of the nation's apparent imminent danger from enemies. Asaph begins by asking God to act on Israel's behalf, because her enemies are plotting against the nation. He alludes to a confederacy of nations: Edom, Ishmaelites, Moab, Hagrites, Gebal, Ammon, Amalek, Philistia, Tyre, Assyria. Asaph … Continue reading Prayer for Deliverance (Psalm 83)
A Plea for Justice (Psalm 82)
This psalm of Asaph is a cry unto God for justice for the oppressed of Israel. He begins by playing up the lofty position of God among the gods. He then asks why He is showing partiality to the wicked. The next stanza moves into a plea for God to defend the poor and fatherless, … Continue reading A Plea for Justice (Psalm 82)
A Month of Love (February 2016), Part One: Go! Preach! (Loving the Lost)
Mark 16:14–18 (NKJV) 14 Later He appeared to the eleven as they sat at the table; and He rebuked their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they did not believe those who had seen Him after He had risen. 15 And He said to them, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. … Continue reading A Month of Love (February 2016), Part One: Go! Preach! (Loving the Lost)
Plea for Israel’s Repentance (Psalm 81)
Asaph here provides a song calling the people to response to God's greatness. He begins by asking for a joyful shout (noise) to the Lord. He then moves into a call for a solemn assembly to recount the acts of God in delivering Israel from Egypt and removing the burden from their shoulders. God calls … Continue reading Plea for Israel’s Repentance (Psalm 81)
Prayers for Forgiveness & Restoration (Psalm 79 – 80)
Asaph writes both of these psalms, which include laments, a dirge, and prayers for Israel as it is besieged and destroyed by its enemies. In Psalm 79, he laments the destruction of the temple and the city of Jerusalem, and the dead bodies of the Jews. He goes on to ask the Lord how long … Continue reading Prayers for Forgiveness & Restoration (Psalm 79 – 80)
God’s Mercy to Rebellious Israel (Psalm 78)
In this 72-verse contemplation of Asaph, the writer recounts the acts of God on behalf of Israel in the history of the nation from Abraham until the captivity. A lengthy summary is presumably put together for the sake of the nation's children. He recounts the rebellious acts of Israel and the mercy of God in … Continue reading God’s Mercy to Rebellious Israel (Psalm 78)
The Consolation of Blessings Past (Psalm 77)
Asaph writes another psalm declaring the consoling nature of the works of God in Redemption. Psalm 77:1–3 (NKJV) 1 I cried out to God with my voice—To God with my voice; And He gave ear to me. 2 In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord; My hand was stretched out in the … Continue reading The Consolation of Blessings Past (Psalm 77)
His Majesty is Famous (Psalm 76)
Asaph begins this psalm with a statement about God's notoriety. He is known in Judah, Israel, Salem, and Zion. He is established as a military force. He goes on to describe His fame in terms of the earth. He is greater than mountains, and men were plundered and died by His hand. God is to … Continue reading His Majesty is Famous (Psalm 76)
Go…and Follow Me (Matthew 19:16 – 26)
Matthew 19:16–21 (NKJV) Recognizing Jesus as Good 16 Now behold, one came and said to Him, “Good Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have eternal life?” Seeking Eternal Life 17 So He said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God. But if you … Continue reading Go…and Follow Me (Matthew 19:16 – 26)
God’s Righteous Judgment (Psalm 75)
Asaph gives thanks to God for His wondrous works, then writes what God would respond to this thanks. God declares that He will judge rightly and in His time. He will teach the boastful and wicked, reminding them, 6 For exaltation comes neither from the east Nor from the west nor from the south. 7 … Continue reading God’s Righteous Judgment (Psalm 75)
Devoted To You 