Psalm 80
Today's Passage: Psalm 80
Psalm 80 laments the suffering of Israel regarding some unknown events—perhaps due to hard treatment from Gentile neighbors. As I read Psalm 80, here’s a few observations that stood out:
Written By: Tyler Short
Psalm 80 laments the suffering of Israel regarding some unknown events—perhaps due to hard treatment from Gentile neighbors. As I read Psalm 80, here’s a few observations that stood out:
First, notice God’s place in the psalmist’s view—the psalmist refers to God as the “Shepherd of Israel,” “enthroned,” “God of Hosts,” etc. Each one of these titles shows a high view of God. They acknowledge his care and concern as a Shepherd and his victorious power to save as the Lord of Hosts. Even in pain, the psalmist acknowledges the One to whom he prays. Finally, notice also how the Psalm ends with the plea for restoration—God is able.
Second, there’s real emotion. The psalmist describes eating a drinking their plentiful tears as that which feeds them—that’s rough. In verse 8, the psalmist acknowledges what God did to transplant Israel from slavery in Egypt to possessing the Land. Then, how they grew mighty only to become broken and scorned.
Finally, notice the repeated plea to “Restore us” (“Turn again” in verse 14). The Hebrew word here means to “return” or “turn back.” Often, this same idea is synonymous with repentance. In sin, we turn from God. Like the story of the Prodigal Son in Luke 15, God allows us to go our own way. He metaphorically turns away from us. Repentance then is a “turning back” to God, and God turning back to us such that his “face shines” upon us.
Whatever kind of season you may find yourself in, let this Psalm encourage you. Lift high the name of God. Remember his faithfulness in your life—celebrate it. Be honest with God. If you’re hurting, tell him. If you’re struggling, tell him. But, we must continually surrender. As we cry out to God to shine his face upon us, we must be willing to turn back to him. He is able. He cares. Turn back and return to your heavenly Father.
Written By: Tyler Short
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