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)
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)
Remember Your People (Psalm 74)
Asaph writes a contemplation in this psalm concerning the condition of Israel and God's temple, and lifts up God's greatness in the process. He begins by asking God why He has forsaken His people, and asks for Him to remember the congregation of His people. He then goes on to describe the things that the … Continue reading Remember Your People (Psalm 74)
Why Do the Wicked Prosper? (Psalm 73)
This first psalm in Book Three of the psalms is attributed to Asaph. He opens the psalm by speaking of God's goodness to Israel, but his own envy of the prosperity of the wicked. He declares that they do not have pain in death, nor in trouble, they have abundance, and win at most of … Continue reading Why Do the Wicked Prosper? (Psalm 73)
Prayer for Wisdom (Psalm 72)
This is the first psalm attributed to Solomon, the son of David. He begins by asking God to give him His judgements and His righteousness. With them, the king will be able to judge with righteousness and bring peace. He will effect justice for the poor and destroy the oppressor. The people will fear God, … Continue reading Prayer for Wisdom (Psalm 72)
You Are My Refuge (Psalm 71)
This 71st psalm does not have an author identified. The writer calls out to God, calling Him his strong refuge, a rock and fortress, and declares his trust in the Lord. He asks the Lord to deliver him out of the hand of the wicked, because he has trusted Him since birth. Although people wonder … Continue reading You Are My Refuge (Psalm 71)
Make Haste to Deliver Me (Psalm 70)
1 Make haste, O God, to deliver me!Make haste to help me, O Lord! 2 Let them be ashamed and confounded Who seek my life; Let them be turned back and confused Who desire my hurt. 3 Let them be turned back because of their shame, Who say, “Aha, aha!” 4 Let all those who … Continue reading Make Haste to Deliver Me (Psalm 70)
Devoted To You 