What is the meaning of Psalm 85:10? Loving devotion “Loving devotion …” • This is God’s loyal, covenant love—steadfast and unwavering. See Exodus 34:6 where the LORD proclaims Himself “abounding in loving devotion and truth.” • Psalm 103:17 reminds us that “the loving devotion of the LORD is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear Him,” showing this quality spans generations. • Because God’s loving devotion initiates redemption (Romans 5:8), we rest in the certainty that He always moves toward His people with grace. and faithfulness have joined together “… and faithfulness have joined together …” • Faithfulness is God’s reliability—His promises kept without fail (Numbers 23:19). • The picture of “joined together” speaks of two friends walking arm-in-arm. Love without faithfulness could feel fickle; faithfulness without love could feel stern. Together they reveal the full heart of God. • John 1:14 portrays Jesus as “full of grace and truth,” the living union of loving devotion and faithfulness. • For believers, this pairing calls us to reflect both qualities (Ephesians 4:15)—speaking truth in love. righteousness “… righteousness …” • Righteousness is God’s moral perfection displayed in just actions (Psalm 89:14: “Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne”). • It is not merely a legal standard but a relational one—God setting everything right. • In Christ, God’s righteousness is credited to those who believe (2 Corinthians 5:21), enabling us to pursue just living (Micah 6:8). • When righteousness appears in Psalm 85, it anticipates national and personal renewal after discipline (Psalm 85:7,9). and peace have kissed “… and peace have kissed.” • Peace (shalom) is wholeness, harmony with God and others (Isaiah 32:17: “The work of righteousness will be peace”). • “Have kissed” pictures intimate reconciliation—no distance remains between the parties. • Romans 5:1 shows this perfected in the gospel: “Since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God.” • When righteousness meets peace, justice is satisfied and blessing flows, echoing the future reign of the Messiah (Isaiah 9:6-7). summary Psalm 85:10 sketches four divine qualities converging in perfect unity. God’s steadfast love reaches out; His faithfulness guarantees every promise; His righteousness addresses sin; His peace brings restored wholeness. Ultimately, these virtues meet and “kiss” in Jesus Christ, offering us assurance that God’s character is flawlessly consistent and His salvation completely secure. |
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