God Never Gives Up On Us
April 1, 2024
Commentary
Because of the reference to captivity many Bible scholars believe this psalm was written at the time of Zerubbabel (Ezra.3:4) or more likely during the days of Ezra and Nehemiah (Neh. 2-4) (v. 1). At any rate it seems to belong to the early days of the return from Babylon. The theme of this chapter is “Restoration” not only historically but prophetically.
A look at the past (vv. 1-3)
Restoration requires God’s favor (v. 1).Restoration requires God’s forgiveness (v. 2).Restoration requires God’s forbearance (v.3).A look at the present (vv. 4-7)
The God of salvation is the God capable of our restoration (v. 4).The God of righteous anger is the God capable of our restoration (v. 5). The God of joy is the God capable of our restoration (v. 6).The God of loving-kindness is the God capable of our restoration (v. 7).A look at the future (vv. 8-13)
Restoration means peace for the Godly (v. 8).Restoration means deliverance for the God fearing (v. 9a).Restoration means the glory of God’s presence on the earth (v. 9b).Restoration means the reign of the Messiah King (vv. 10,11).Restoration means prosperity (v. 12).Restoration means clear sailing (v. 13).
Application
When a situation seems hopeless in my life I need to remember the Lord never gives up on me.
Psalms 85:1– 13 (NET)
Verses not found.
Illustration: Michelangelo’s sculpture restored
A few years ago, an angry, distraught, and hostile man slipped into St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome with a hammer and began to smash Michelangelo’s beautiful sculpture The Pieta. This cherished work of art was severely damaged. But what did officials do? Throw him out and forget about the sculpture? Absolutely not! Using the best experts, who worked with the utmost care and precision, they made every effort to restore this treasure. By His sovereign grace, God can bring good out of our failures, and even out of our sins. (Source Unknown)