Psalm 76

 


Psalm 76 is another song of Asaph.  This psalm declares that the glorious God of Judah and Israel is to be feared.  He is more powerful than enemy armies; He is able to break their weapons and cut them off in stunning victory.

Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm:
  • Verses 1-3
    • The mention of both Judah and Israel shows that God is known throughout the land, and the references to Salem (the ancient name for Jerusalem) and Zion point to His presence among His people as symbolized by the Temple.  Thus, what do these verses indicate are my best defenses against the Enemy's weapons when fighting spiritual battles?
  • Verses 4-9
    • How might these verses provide encouragement in battles against evil?
  • Verses 10
    • Similar to Genesis 50:20a, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good," why is it important to remember that God can turn wicked intentions of man to work together for good instead?
  • Verses 11-12
    • We are reminded that ultimately "at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." (Philippians 2:10-11).  Rereading this psalm with the eternal future in mind, how might it affect the way that I am living my life now?

If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video:
  • "You Indeed are Awesome" by Jason Silver:  Link


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Psalm 149

Image
  Psalm 149 is part of the Final Hallel section (146-150), providing a doxology to the Book of Psalms.  These praise psalms begin and end with "Praise the LORD!" or "Hallelujah!"  This psalm is likely a victory song of praise from God's People to their King for deliverance but also judgment against their enemies. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-5 God's people are called to praise Him no matter where we are, together in assembly (v. 1) as well as alone in our beds (v. 5).  What do these verses teach us about praising the LORD? The last part of verse 4 may be translated "crowns the humble with victory," "adorns the afflicted with salvation," "beautifies the meek with salvation," "glorifies the lowly with salvation," or "exalts the oppressed by delivering them."  C.H. Spurgeon says that each "gives a new shade of meaning, well worthy
Read more

Psalm 120

Image
  Psalm 120 is the first in the Songs of Ascents series (Psalms 120-134). These songs were likely sung during the three annual festival processions to Jerusalem (Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles). The Feasts may typically be associated with joy, celebration, and worship, however in Psalm 120, the psalmist is crying out to the LORD in distress.  He is facing lies and deceit, such as from those in the foreign lands around him who hate peace. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-4 Why would it be better to turn to the LORD when facing "lying lips" and "a deceitful tongue"? Verses 5-7 What can we do when we live "among those who hate peace"? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "I Cry Unto the Lord" (Psalm 120) by Timeless Vocal Tapestry: Link
Read more

Psalm 142

Image
  Psalm 142 is in the last set of those attributed to David (138-145). This is a cave psalm (like Psalm 57), likely when David was fleeing from Saul and hid in a cave when his life was in danger. Thus, this is a prayer, crying out to the LORD for deliverance. Following are some reflections that may be beneficial to consider when meditating on this psalm: Verses 1-2 What are some troubles that drive me to cry out to the LORD? Verses 3-7 When we feel overwhelmed, afraid, and alone, how is God our refuge, portion, deliverer? If you would like to meditate on this psalm through music as well, following is a link to a YouTube video: "Psalm 142" by Calvary Westlake:  Link
Read more