Bible Commentaries
Psalms 85

Introduction

PSALM 85

:-. On the ground of former mercies, the Psalmist prays for renewed blessings, and, confidently expecting them, rejoices.

Verse 1

1. captivity—not necessarily the Babylonian, but any great evil ( :-).

Verse 2

2, 3. (Compare :-).

Verse 3

3. To turn from the "fierceness," implies that He was reconcilable, though

Verse 4

4-7. having still occasion for the anger which is deprecated.

Verse 5

5. draw out—or, "prolong" (Psalms 36:10).

Verse 6

4-7. having still occasion for the anger which is deprecated.

Verse 8

8. He is confident God will favor His penitent people (Psalms 51:17; Psalms 80:18).

saints—as in Psalms 80:18- :, the "godly."

Verse 9

9. They are here termed "them that fear him"; and grace produces glory ( :-).

Verse 10

10. God's promises of "mercy" will be verified by His "truth" (compare Psalms 25:10; Psalms 40:10); and the "work of righteousness" in His holy government shall be "peace" (Isaiah 32:17). There is an implied contrast with a dispensation under which God's truth sustains His threatened wrath, and His righteousness inflicts misery on the wicked.

Verse 11

11. Earth and heaven shall abound with the blessings of this government;

Verse 12

12, 13. and, under this, the deserted land shall be productive, and men be "set," or guided in God's holy ways. Doubtless, in this description of God's returning favor, the writer had in view that more glorious period, when Christ shall establish His government on God's reconciled justice and abounding mercy.