Worship: A Study in PsalmsSample

What does it say?

Asaph begged God to be merciful and forgive Israel for the glory of His name. He asked the Lord to return to His people so they might be revived and restored.

What does it mean?

Psalm 79 was sung each spring at Passover, and Psalm 80 was sung in the fall during the Feast of Tabernacles. Both psalms recount the devastation of Jerusalem and the defilement of the Lord’s temple – probably regarding the Babylonian invasion and captivity of God’s people. These psalms served as annual reminders that God doesn’t allow sin to go unnoticed; it had devastating consequences on their land, people, and worship. Ultimately, Israel’s restoration will come through the man God raised – the Messiah, Jesus Christ. Only He can save those who call on His name.

How should I respond?

We’ve trivialized sin to the point that it’s hard to recognize the devastation it has caused nationally and personally. Movies and television shows glorify what God condemns and even make it seem amusing. However, sin is not trivial. The sins of the world cost Jesus His life. Stop right now and consider how the warning in today’s passage needs to impact your life. Has your conscience been desensitized to sins that are considered socially acceptable? Remember, if Satan can get you to laugh at it, he can get you to live with it. Will you pray for personal and national revival today?