Yahweh, you have been favorable to your land. You have restored the fortunes of Jacob. You have forgiven the iniquity of your people. You have covered all their sin. Selah (Ps. 85:1-2).
O God, you promise us a land flowing with milk and honey. This land is our heavenly home. Keep us from being tempted to trust in earthly possessions that will quickly fade away. For our eternal inheritance and security is found in knowing you, our Savior and King.
You have taken away all your wrath. You have turned from the fierceness of your anger. Turn us, God of our salvation, and cause your indignation toward us to cease (Ps. 85:3-4).
Righteous King, thank you for extending mercy to us. We are sinful creatures who deserve your holy wrath. But in grace, you have turned from the fierceness of your anger and had pity upon us. Thank you for rescuing us from our own plight. You deserve all the glory, honor, and praise.
Will you be angry with us forever? Will you draw out your anger to all generations? Won’t you revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you? Show us your loving kindness, Yahweh. Grant us your salvation (Ps. 85:5-7)
Prince of Peace, we know you won’t be angry forever. For your Word tells us that your not willing that any perish, but all come to repentance and faith. You do despise sin and will punish evildoers, but you will revive your people. Your people will rejoice in your holy name.
King of kings, show us your loving kindness. Grant us your salvation. May we rest in your sovereign plans. For you are in control of our destiny. Please, Lord, forgive us and keep us on the path to life.
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 (Ps 85:8-11)
Heavenly Father, you are a compassionate and gracious God. You are a personable God that speaks directly with your people. You speak to those who follow your decrees. You have granted salvation and redemption for those who fear your name.
Fear is the beginning of wisdom. To know your glory and power enables us to see our sin and unrighteousness. It gives us a clearer picture of our own depravity and need of your mercy and truth. Thank goodness that righteousness and peace have kissed each other. You have imputed righteousness to us through your Son, Jesus Christ. Praise be to your holy name.
Truth springs out of the earth. Righteousness has looked down from heaven. Yes, Yahweh will give that which is good. Our land will yield its increase. Righteousness goes before him, and prepares the way for his steps (Ps. 85:12-14).
Everlasting Lord, you are the way, the truth, and the life. You are the epitome of righteousness. When we trust in you, we will produce fruit like a fertile land. Your Holy Spirit empowers us to live morally upright. Thanks for preparing our steps and leading us to life everlasting.
Psalm Commentary by Chad A. Damitz
Conform to Jesus 
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