Walk Of Life – Day 24, October 2022 – Thoughts From The Book Of Psalms

Psalm 76 – God Displays His Greatness

Asaph, a great singer and musician of David and Solomon’s era composed this psalm celebrating a great victory of God on behalf of His people. We can connect this psalm to the defeat of Sennacherib, Assyrian King who terrified both the kingdoms of Israel and mocked God during the reign of King Hezekiah. This psalm was either composed prophetically by Asaph or by his son, Joah who was a recorder for King Hezekiah. 2 Kings 18:18

Asaph reverently and joyfully expresses the greatness of the God of Israel through this psalm.

• Dwells among his People – The LORD who is the creator of the universe has chosen to make Jerusalem, his dwelling place among his chosen generation. Salem means peace and Zion is a fortress on a hill that was captured by David, figuratively represents the temple of God in Jerusalem in this context.
• Patient towards ungrateful Children – Even though Israel forgot their God who delivered them from Egypt and followed foreign gods and did evil to the extent of sacrificing their children to them, God gave Israel and Judah many opportunity to correct themselves through all his prophets and seers. Following the worthless idols, they too became worthless and were easily subdued by the enemy. 2 Kings 17:13.
• Waits for the faithful remnant to Call on him – Only Hezekiah, King of Judah and the remnant that were still faithful to the Lord put on sack clothes, fasted and prayed to the Lord. Following the removal of all the high places of pagan gods and the bronze snake of Moses to which burning incense were offered, he rebelled against the king of Assyria who threatened, terrified the people and mocked their God. Even though Israel was defeated, Hezekiah did not give up on praying to the one and true God who only could deliver.
• Answers and Defends his children from their Enemies – God rose to defend his people by sending an angel who stuck hundred and eighty five thousand soldiers in the enemy camp which made the wicked king retreat back to his own country where he was assassinated by his sons.
• Restores fear among the Survivors – The fear of the LORD spread within both the kingdoms of Israel and the neighboring kingdoms were silenced by his might. God used the pride and wrath of the Assyrian King to restore Israel’s spiritual life and to bring glory to his name.

This psalm is a reminder of how Great is our God who is merciful, gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. So, do not take him for granted and serve him without wavering in your faith.