Bible Commentaries
Psalms 94

Verses 1-23

The placing of this song immediately after the one which sets forth the fact of the enthronement of Jehovah is remarkable. It creates a contrast, while it suggests a continuity of ideas. The contrast is seen in the fact that while the previous psalm celebrates the victory of Jehovah over all opposition, this one is an appeal to Him out of circumstances in which His enemies seem to triumph. The continuity of ideas is however, equally apparent.

To who should His own turn in times of such distress, save to the One Who sits high above the force and fury of the flood?

The psalm has three main movements. First, an appeal to Jehovah the Mighty, in the presence of the triumph of the wicked (vv. Psa 94:1-7 ). This is followed by an address to such as are doubting because of apparent inactivity of God. They are reminded that God hears, sees, and must act (vv. Psa 94:8-11 ). Finally, the song again becomes a prayer in which faith makes its great affirmations. The period of waiting is one of blessed chastening. Jehovah cannot ultimately cast off His people. Past experience testifies to this. The wrong of those apparently victorious enemies makes it impossible to believe that they can have fellowship with God. Therefore, the final words tell of the psalmist’s confidence.