This presents a beautiful passage that speaks of God's characteristics and His transformative work. This passage carries a message of grace, salvation, and the deep connection between God's love and justice. This psalm is attributed to the sons of Korah and is a heartfelt prayer for God's restoration and favor. It's a plea for revival during a time of distress, acknowledging the importance of God's mercy and His promises.
- Divine Attributes Unveiled:
"I will hear what God, Yahweh, will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, his saints; but let them not turn again to folly." (Psalm 85:8)
This verse highlights the psalmist's anticipation of hearing God's voice. The name "Yahweh" signifies the covenant-keeping God—the God who is faithful to His promises. The psalmist expects to hear a message of peace from God, directed toward His people, the saints. This peace isn't just a lack of conflict; it's a sense of wholeness, well-being, and harmony that comes from being in alignment with God's purposes.
The plea "but let them not turn again to folly" acknowledges the tendency to stray from God's ways. It's a recognition that our human nature sometimes leads us astray. The verse serves as a reminder to hold fast to wisdom and to resist the allure of unwise choices.
- Harmony of Love and Justice:
"Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth meet together. Righteousness and peace have kissed each other." (Psalm 85:9-10)
In these verses, we encounter a beautiful tapestry of God's attributes. "Surely his salvation is near those who fear him" points to the intimate connection between reverence for God and experiencing His salvation. The psalmist recognizes that those who hold God in awe will find His deliverance.
"Mercy and truth meet together" reveals the profound harmony of God's characteristics. Mercy and truth are not in conflict; rather, they are unified in God's nature and, as the following verse explains, "truth springs out of the earth" (Psalm 85:11). "Righteousness and peace have kissed each other" signifies the reconciliation of righteousness (aligned with God's standards) and peace (harmony and well-being). This harmony finds its ultimate expression in the person of Jesus Christ, where righteousness is fulfilled through His sacrifice, leading to reconciliation and peace with God.
- Personal Reflection on God's Attributes:
As we reflect on Psalm 85:8-10, we're invited to contemplate the depth of God's attributes. His voice brings peace and direction to our lives. His salvation is extended to those who revere Him, aligning their hearts with His ways. The harmony of mercy and truth, righteousness and peace, serves as a testament to God's redemptive plan for humanity.
In a world often characterized by division and conflict, this passage reminds us that God's attributes work in perfect unity. Just as the psalmist yearned for God's favor, may we also seek to align our lives with His attributes, embracing the transformative power of His love and justice.
Cross-References:
John 1:14 - "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth."
Romans 5:1 - "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ."
Psalm 85:8-10 presents a tapestry of God's attributes—His voice of peace, His salvation for those who revere Him, and the harmonious interplay of mercy, truth, righteousness, and peace. These verses invite us to embrace the transformative power of God's love and justice in our lives. As we navigate the complexities of our journey, may we find solace in the assurance that God's attributes work in perfect unity to bring about His redemptive purposes. Just as the psalmist prayed for God's presence to dwell in the land, may we also seek to experience His attributes in our hearts and lives, trusting in His unchanging nature and promises.
See also: vs 11
Psalm 85:8-10. I will hear what God, Yahweh, will speak, for he will speak peace to his people, his saints; but let them not turn again to folly. Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth meet together. Righteousness and peace have kissed each other.