Main Highlights
A prayer for God's continued favor and restoration of the land and His people, based on past mercies and a hope for future blessings.
Key Verses
Lord, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.- Psalm 85:1
Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?- Psalm 85:6
Steadfast love and faithfulness meet; righteousness and peace kiss each other.- Psalm 85:10
Related Scripture
If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.- 1 John 1:9
Scholar Insight
"Psalm 85 is a prayer for God's renewed blessing upon the land and people of Israel. The psalmist reflects on God's past favor and pleads for a restoration of righteousness and peace. - J. Clinton McCann Jr., The Book of Psalms: The New Interpreter's Bible Commentary (Abingdon Press, 1996), p. 1034."
Theological Analysis
What we learn about God
We learn that God is merciful (Psalm 85:2-3), forgiving, and a restorer of fortunes (Psalm 85:1). He is faithful and loving (Psalm 85:10).
Christological Connection
Jesus, as the embodiment of steadfast love, righteousness, and peace, is foreshadowed in the promise of these qualities meeting (Psalm 85:10).
Systematic Theology
The concepts of forgiveness, restoration, and the reconciliation of God and humanity are highlighted.
Law & Grace
The psalmist acknowledges Israel's past sins while pleading for God's mercy. The mention of righteousness and peace suggests a harmony achieved through God's grace and a proper relationship to His law.
Personal Application
People should pray for God's continued favor, seek His forgiveness, and strive to live lives that reflect His righteousness and peace. "Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?" (Psalm 85:6)