What is the meaning of Psalm 85:7? Show us - The plea “Show us” reveals an eager expectation for God to make His work unmistakably visible. - Scripture shows that God welcomes such petitions: “Call to Me and I will answer you and show you great and mighty things” (Jeremiah 33:3). - The psalmist isn’t demanding proof for belief; he’s asking the Lord to unveil what is already true but sometimes hidden by circumstances (cf. 2 Kings 6:17). Your loving devotion - “Loving devotion” (ḥesed) is God’s steadfast covenant love. It is not fickle or partial; it’s the sure, loyal kindness God pledged to His people (Exodus 34:6–7; Psalm 136). - This request roots itself in divine character, not human merit: “Because of the LORD’s great love we are not consumed” (Lamentations 3:22–23). - By asking to see it, the psalmist admits that hardship can cloud awareness of God’s unwavering affection, yet faith believes His love never falters (Romans 8:38–39). O LORD - Using the covenant name (YHWH) stresses personal relationship. The psalmist isn’t addressing a distant deity; he’s turning to the God who redeemed Israel (Exodus 6:2–8). - Covenant context matters: God had restored His people before (Psalm 85:1–3), so He can do it again (Hebrews 13:8). - “O LORD” also signals reverence; petitions are made with humble confidence (Psalm 25:8–10). and grant us - “Grant” underscores grace. Salvation isn’t earned; it’s bestowed (Ephesians 2:8–9). - The plural “us” reflects corporate concern: personal faith never ignores the community. - Similar corporate pleas: “Restore us, O God; make Your face shine upon us” (Psalm 80:3). Our well-being is linked to the people of God (1 Corinthians 12:26). Your salvation - Here salvation is comprehensive—deliverance from sin’s guilt, removal of God’s discipline, and restoration to blessing (Isaiah 12:2; Titus 2:11–14). - For the original audience, it meant relief from national distress; for believers today, it also points to eternal rescue accomplished in Christ (Acts 4:12). - Salvation belongs to the Lord alone (Jonah 2:9); therefore the psalmist seeks it nowhere else. summary Psalm 85:7 is a heartfelt appeal that God would once again make His steadfast love visible and bestow His gracious rescue. Rooted in His covenant name and character, the petition trusts that what God has done before, He will faithfully do again—for individuals and for the entire community of faith. |
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