June 18, 2025
God offers us everything we need every day of our lives!
Psalm 90-95
Christina Hubacek
Big Book Idea
Worship is our response to God for who He is and what He has done!
Key Verse | Psalm 90:14
Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
Psalm 90-95
Book Four
Chapter 90
From Everlasting to Everlasting
A Prayer of Moses, the man of God.
1
Lord, you have been our dwelling place
1
90:1
Some Hebrew manuscripts (compare Septuagint) our refuge
in all generations.
2
Before the mountains were brought forth,
or ever you had formed the earth and the world,
from everlasting to everlasting you are God.
3
You return man to dust
and say, “Return, O children of man!”
2
90:3
Or of Adam
4
For a thousand years in your sight
are but as yesterday when it is past,
or as a watch in the night.
5
You sweep them away as with a flood; they are like a dream,
like grass that is renewed in the morning:
6
in the morning it flourishes and is renewed;
in the evening it fades and withers.
7
For we are brought to an end by your anger;
by your wrath we are dismayed.
8
You have set our iniquities before you,
our secret sins in the light of your presence.
9
For all our days pass away under your wrath;
we bring our years to an end like a sigh.
10
The years of our life are seventy,
or even by reason of strength eighty;
yet their span
3
90:10
Or pride
is but toil and trouble;
they are soon gone, and we fly away.
11
Who considers the power of your anger,
and your wrath according to the fear of you?
12
So teach us to number our days
that we may get a heart of wisdom.
13
Return, O LORD! How long?
Have pity on your servants!
14
Satisfy us in the morning with your steadfast love,
that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.
15
Make us glad for as many days as you have afflicted us,
and for as many years as we have seen evil.
16
Let your work be shown to your servants,
and your glorious power to their children.
17
Let the favor
4
90:17
Or beauty
of the Lord our God be upon us,
and establish the work of our hands upon us;
yes, establish the work of our hands!
Chapter 91
My Refuge and My Fortress
1
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High
will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
2
I will say
5
91:2
Septuagint He will say
to the LORD, “My refuge and my fortress,
my God, in whom I trust.”
3
For he will deliver you from the snare of the fowler
and from the deadly pestilence.
4
He will cover you with his pinions,
and under his wings you will find refuge;
his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
5
You will not fear the terror of the night,
nor the arrow that flies by day,
6
nor the pestilence that stalks in darkness,
nor the destruction that wastes at noonday.
7
A thousand may fall at your side,
ten thousand at your right hand,
but it will not come near you.
8
You will only look with your eyes
and see the recompense of the wicked.
9
Because you have made the LORD your dwelling place—
the Most High, who is my refuge
6
91:9
Or For you, O LORD, are my refuge! You have made the Most High your dwelling place
—
10
no evil shall be allowed to befall you,
no plague come near your tent.
11
For he will command his angels concerning you
to guard you in all your ways.
12
On their hands they will bear you up,
lest you strike your foot against a stone.
13
You will tread on the lion and the adder;
the young lion and the serpent you will trample underfoot.
14
“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him;
I will protect him, because he knows my name.
15
When he calls to me, I will answer him;
I will be with him in trouble;
I will rescue him and honor him.
16
With long life I will satisfy him
and show him my salvation.”
Chapter 92
How Great Are Your Works
A Psalm. A Song for the Sabbath.
1
It is good to give thanks to the LORD,
to sing praises to your name, O Most High;
2
to declare your steadfast love in the morning,
and your faithfulness by night,
3
to the music of the lute and the harp,
to the melody of the lyre.
4
For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work;
at the works of your hands I sing for joy.
5
How great are your works, O LORD!
Your thoughts are very deep!
6
The stupid man cannot know;
the fool cannot understand this:
7
that though the wicked sprout like grass
and all evildoers flourish,
they are doomed to destruction forever;
8
but you, O LORD, are on high forever.
9
For behold, your enemies, O LORD,
for behold, your enemies shall perish;
all evildoers shall be scattered.
10
But you have exalted my horn like that of the wild ox;
you have poured over me
7
92:10
Compare Syriac; the meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain
fresh oil.
11
My eyes have seen the downfall of my enemies;
my ears have heard the doom of my evil assailants.
12
The righteous flourish like the palm tree
and grow like a cedar in Lebanon.
13
They are planted in the house of the LORD;
they flourish in the courts of our God.
14
They still bear fruit in old age;
they are ever full of sap and green,
15
to declare that the LORD is upright;
he is my rock, and there is no unrighteousness in him.
Chapter 93
The LORD Reigns
1
The LORD reigns; he is robed in majesty;
the LORD is robed; he has put on strength as his belt.
Yes, the world is established; it shall never be moved.
2
Your throne is established from of old;
you are from everlasting.
3
The floods have lifted up, O LORD,
the floods have lifted up their voice;
the floods lift up their roaring.
4
Mightier than the thunders of many waters,
mightier than the waves of the sea,
the LORD on high is mighty!
5
Your decrees are very trustworthy;
holiness befits your house,
O LORD, forevermore.
Chapter 94
The LORD Will Not Forsake His People
1
O LORD, God of vengeance,
O God of vengeance, shine forth!
2
Rise up, O judge of the earth;
repay to the proud what they deserve!
3
O LORD, how long shall the wicked,
how long shall the wicked exult?
4
They pour out their arrogant words;
all the evildoers boast.
5
They crush your people, O LORD,
and afflict your heritage.
6
They kill the widow and the sojourner,
and murder the fatherless;
7
and they say, “The LORD does not see;
the God of Jacob does not perceive.”
8
Understand, O dullest of the people!
Fools, when will you be wise?
9
He who planted the ear, does he not hear?
He who formed the eye, does he not see?
10
He who disciplines the nations, does he not rebuke?
He who teaches man knowledge—
11
the LORD—knows the thoughts of man,
that they are but a breath.
8
94:11
Septuagint they are futile
12
Blessed is the man whom you discipline, O LORD,
and whom you teach out of your law,
13
to give him rest from days of trouble,
until a pit is dug for the wicked.
14
For the LORD will not forsake his people;
he will not abandon his heritage;
15
for justice will return to the righteous,
and all the upright in heart will follow it.
16
Who rises up for me against the wicked?
Who stands up for me against evildoers?
17
If the LORD had not been my help,
my soul would soon have lived in the land of silence.
18
When I thought, “My foot slips,”
your steadfast love, O LORD, held me up.
19
When the cares of my heart are many,
your consolations cheer my soul.
20
Can wicked rulers be allied with you,
those who frame
9
94:20
Or fashion
injustice by statute?
21
They band together against the life of the righteous
and condemn the innocent to death.
10
94:21
Hebrew condemn innocent blood
22
But the LORD has become my stronghold,
and my God the rock of my refuge.
23
He will bring back on them their iniquity
and wipe them out for their wickedness;
the LORD our God will wipe them out.
Chapter 95
Let Us Sing Songs of Praise
1
Oh come, let us sing to the LORD;
let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!
2
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving;
let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise!
3
For the LORD is a great God,
and a great King above all gods.
4
In his hand are the depths of the earth;
the heights of the mountains are his also.
5
The sea is his, for he made it,
and his hands formed the dry land.
6
Oh come, let us worship and bow down;
let us kneel before the LORD, our Maker!
7
For he is our God,
and we are the people of his pasture,
and the sheep of his hand.
Today, if you hear his voice,
8
do not harden your hearts, as at Meribah,
as on the day at Massah in the wilderness,
9
when your fathers put me to the test
and put me to the proof, though they had seen my work.
10
For forty years I loathed that generation
and said, “They are a people who go astray in their heart,
and they have not known my ways.”
11
Therefore I swore in my wrath,
“They shall not enter my rest.”
Footnotes
[1] 90:1 Some Hebrew manuscripts (compare Septuagint) our refuge[2] 90:3 Or of Adam
[3] 90:10 Or pride
[4] 90:17 Or beauty
[5] 91:2 Septuagint He will say
[6] 91:9 Or For you, O LORD, are my refuge! You have made the Most High your dwelling place
[7] 92:10 Compare Syriac; the meaning of the Hebrew is uncertain
[8] 94:11 Septuagint they are futile
[9] 94:20 Or fashion
[10] 94:21 Hebrew condemn innocent blood
Table of Contents
Introduction to The Psalms
Timeline
Author and Date
Individual psalms come from diverse periods of Israel’s history, but at every stage they served as the songbook of God’s people. David wrote about half of the Psalms. His role as king was more than that of a ruler. He was to represent and even embody the people, and their well-being was tied to his faithfulness. David, then, writes as a representative, and the readers must discern whether the emphasis of a psalm is more on his role as ruler or more on his role as ideal Israelite, in which he is an example for all. The historical occasions mentioned in the psalm titles help the reader see how faith applies to real-life situations.
Key Themes
The Psalter is fundamentally the hymnbook of God’s people. It takes the basic themes of OT theology and turns them into song:
- Monotheism. The one God, Maker and Ruler of all, will vindicate his goodness and justice in his own time. Everyone must know and love this God, whose purity, power, wisdom, faithfulness, and unceasing love are breathtakingly beautiful.
- Creation and fall. Though God made man with dignity and purpose, all people since the fall are beset with sins and weaknesses that only God’s grace can heal.
- Election and covenant. The one true God chose a people for himself and bound himself to them by his covenant. This covenant expressed God’s intention to save his people, and through them to bring light to the world.
- Covenant membership. In his covenant, God offers grace to his people: forgiveness of their sins, the shaping of their lives to reflect his own glory, and a part to play as light to the Gentiles. Each member of God’s people is responsible to believe God’s promises and to grow in obeying his commands. Those who do this enjoy the full benefits of God’s love and find delight in knowing him. The well-being of God’s people as a whole affects the well-being of each member. Each one shares the joys and sorrows of the others. When believers suffer, they should not seek revenge but should pray. They can be confident that God will make all things right in his own time.
- Eschatology. The story of God’s people is headed toward a glorious future, in which all kinds of people will come to know the Lord. The personal faithfulness of God’s people contributes to his ultimate purpose. The Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, will lead his people in the great task of bringing light to the Gentiles.
Types of Psalms
The Psalms can be identified according to some basic categories:
Laments, which lay a troubled situation before the Lord, asking him for help. There are community (Psalm 12) and individual (Psalm 13) laments. This category is the largest by far, including up to a third of all Psalms.
Hymns of praise, which call God’s people to admire his great attributes and deeds. Examples include Psalms 8; 93; and 145.
Hymns of thanksgiving. As with laments, there are community (Psalm 9) and individual (Psalm 30) thanksgiving psalms.
Hymns celebrating God’s law (Psalm 119).
Wisdom psalms (Psalms 1; 37), which reflect themes from the Wisdom Books (Job, Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, Song of Solomon).
Songs of confidence, which enable worshipers to deepen their trust in God amid difficult circumstances (Psalm 23).
Royal psalms, which present the Davidic monarchy as the vehicle of blessing for God’s people. Some of these are prayers (Psalm 20), some are thanksgivings (Psalm 21). All relate to the Messiah, the ultimate heir of David, either by setting a pattern (Psalms 20–21) or by portraying the king’s reign in such a way that only the Messiah can completely fulfill it (Psalms 2; 72), or by focusing on the future (Psalm 110).
Historical psalms, which take lessons from the history of God’s dealings with his people (Psalm 78).
Prophetic hymns, which echo the Prophets, calling people to covenant faithfulness (Psalm 81).
Structure
The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.
| Book 1 | Psalms 1–41 | Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26. |
| Book 2 | Psalms 42–72 | Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people. |
| Book 3 | Psalms 73–89 | The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88). |
| Book 4 | Psalms 90–106 | Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89. |
| Book 5 | Psalms 107–150 | The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134). |
Fact: What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God?
What was the main purpose of the Psalms for the people of God? The Psalms were the songbook of the people of God when they gathered for worship.
Fact: What is a psalm of lament?
What is a psalm of lament? The main purpose of a psalm of lament is to tell the Lord about a difficult situation, to ask him for his help, and to praise him for helping. Some laments are community, congregational psalms. Others are individual, personal laments. One third of all the Psalms are psalms of lament.
Fact: What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel?
What defined someone as an “enemy” of the people of Israel? The “enemies” mentioned in the Psalms (e.g., 18:17) were people hostile to the faith of God’s people. Sometimes they expressed their hatred by physically attacking the people of Israel, while other times they merely rejoiced when Israel faced misfortunes.
Fact: Selah
What does Selah mean? Although the word Selah is found 39 times in the book of Psalms, its exact meaning is uncertain. Most scholars believe it is a musical term or a term to be used by a worship leader, possibly to mark a pause.
Fact: Snares
Snares (38:12) were traps used to catch birds and animals. Some snares used ropes or nets that would be triggered as soon as the bait was touched. Pits disguised with sticks and leaves were also used as snares. In the Psalms, snares serve as symbols of danger or death at the hands of the wicked.
Fact: A helpful guide
A helpful guide. The writers of the Psalms understood the importance of constant communication with God. They knew that God would hear their prayers, and they trusted him to act on their behalf. Believers today can benefit greatly by patterning their prayers after specific psalms.
Fact: Vengeance
The word vengeance is used in Ps. 94:1 to describe one way in which the Lord brings about justice in the world. Individual Israelites were forbidden to seek personal vengeance (Lev. 19:18). However, it was the duty of the civil government to ensure just retribution against wrongdoers (Ex. 21:20).
Fact: How old?
How old? Psalm 90:10 suggests that Israelites were living to be 70 or 80 years old in the days of Moses. While life expectancy has varied somewhat over the centuries, it is about the same today.
Fact: Satan knows the Scriptures
Satan knows the Scriptures. Psalm 91:11–12 was quoted by Satan when he tempted Jesus in the desert (Matt. 4:6). Of course, he misapplied it for his own evil purposes. In no way do these verses mean that believers should put themselves in unnecessary danger.
Fact: Maker of heaven and earth
Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 95 is one of several psalms that focus on God’s rule over all of creation. God is the ultimate king because he created everything that exists. The Psalms frequently remind God’s people that we owe him our worship and allegiance because it is he who made us.
Fact: What are fowlers?
What are fowlers? A “fowler” is someone who traps birds. In the Scriptures, it is used figuratively to describe active enemies of God’s people. The psalmist describes God as delivering his people from the fowler’s snare (91:3; 124:7).
Structure of Psalms
The standard Hebrew text divides the Psalms into five “books,” perhaps in imitation of the five books of the Pentateuch.
| Book 1 | Psalms 1–41 | Psalms 1–2 provide an introduction to the Psalms as a whole. Except for Psalms 10 and 33, the remaining psalms of Book 1 are psalms of David. Most of them are prayers of distress. Others are statements of confidence in the God who alone can save (e.g., 9; 11; 16; 18), striking the note that concludes the book (40–41). Reflections on ethics and worship are found in Psalms 1; 14–15; 19; 24; and 26. |
| Book 2 | Psalms 42–72 | Book 2 introduces the first group of psalms by the “sons of Korah” (42; 44–49; 50). There are also more psalms of David (51–65; 68–69), including most of the “historical” psalms (51–52; 54; 56–57; 59–60; 63). Once again, lament and distress dominate these prayers, which now also include a communal voice (e.g., 44; compare 67; 68). The lone psalm attributed to Solomon concludes Book 2 with a look at God’s ideal for Israel’s kings—ultimately pointing to Christ as the final great King of God’s people. |
| Book 3 | Psalms 73–89 | The tone darkens further in Book 3. The opening Psalm 73 starkly questions the justice of God before seeing light in God’s presence. That light has almost escaped the psalmist in Psalm 88, the bleakest of all psalms. Book 2 ended with the high point of royal aspirations; Book 3 concludes in Psalm 89 with these expectations badly threatened. Sharp rays of hope occasionally pierce the darkness (e.g., 75; 85; 87). The brief third book contains most of the psalms of Asaph (73–83), as well as another set of Korah psalms (84–85; 87–88). |
| Book 4 | Psalms 90–106 | Psalm 90 opens the fourth book of the psalms. It may be seen as the first response to the problems raised by Book 3. Psalm 90, attributed to Moses, reminds the worshiper that God was active on Israel’s behalf long before David. This theme is taken up in Psalms 103–106, which summarize God’s dealings with his people before any kings reigned. In between there is a group of psalms (93–100) characterized by the refrain “The LORD reigns.” This truth refutes the doubts of Psalm 89. |
| Book 5 | Psalms 107–150 | The structure of Book 5 reflects the closing petition of Book 4 in 106:47. It declares that God does answer prayer (107) and concludes with five Hallelujah psalms (146–150). In between there are several psalms affirming the validity of the promises to David (110; 132; 144), two collections of Davidic psalms (108–110; 138–145); the longest psalm, celebrating the value of God’s law (119); and 15 psalms of ascent for use by pilgrims to Jerusalem (120–134). |
OT Testimony that All Are under Sin (3:9)
| Romans 3 | OT Reference |
|---|---|
| Sinful Condition | |
| v. 10, none is righteous | Ps. 14:3/53:3; Eccles. 7:20 |
| v. 11a, no one understands | Ps. 14:2/53:2 |
| v. 11b, no one seeks for God | Ps. 14:2/53:2 |
| v. 12, all have turned aside; together they have become worthless; no one does good, not even one | Ps. 14:3/53:3 |
| Sinful Speech (note progression from throat to tongue to lips) | |
| v. 13a, b, their throat is an open grave; they use their tongues to deceive | Ps. 5:10, Septuagint (English, 5:9) |
| v. 13c, the venom of asps is under their lips | Ps. 140:3 |
| v. 14, their mouth is full of curses and bitterness | Ps. 10:7 |
| Sinful Action | |
| v. 15, their feet are swift to shed blood | Prov. 1:16/Isa. 59:7 |
| v. 16, in their paths are ruin and misery | Isa. 59:7 |
| v. 17, and the way of peace they have not known | Isa. 59:8 |
| Summary Statement | |
| v. 18, there is no fear of God before their eyes | Ps. 36:1 |
Ps. 90:1–2 The Lord is the dwelling place, that is, the home and refuge, for his people in all generations because he himself is eternal.
Ps. 90:3–6 In contrast to God’s eternity, human life—even the longest imaginable (a thousand years)—is insignificantly brief (a watch in the night, a flood, a dream, grass). See v. 10; 103:15–18; James 1:11. The psalm recalls God’s sentence in Eden on Adam and Eve’s sin (Ps. 90:3); the short life spans of humans are due to sin’s entry into the world.
Fact: How old?
How old? Psalm 90:10 suggests that Israelites were living to be 70 or 80 years old in the days of Moses. While life expectancy has varied somewhat over the centuries, it is about the same today.
Ps. 90:7–11 God’s people reflect on the unfaithfulness of past generations. They harbored iniquities and secret sins, which resulted in God’s anger and wrath. The whole body of God’s people suffers from the presence and influence of its unfaithful members. God’s judgments that remove the unfaithful from his people are hard even for the faithful to endure. Hence the whole people experience toil and trouble during their brief lives.
Ps. 90:12 teach us to number our days. In view of the psalm’s theme, this refers especially to the ability to make the most of one’s days, since they are so few. The heart of wisdom would enable the faithful to live by the right priorities.
Ps. 90:13–15 Return, that is, come back to us, turn from your anger (as in Ex. 32:12). in the morning. Probably a metaphor for the time when God will make his steadfast love clear to his people.
Psalm Ps. 90. This community lament relates to some unspecified disaster (vv. 13, 15). It asks God to have pity on his people and bless them. The title credits the psalm to Moses. The psalm pictures Israel around the time of Deuteronomy, as they were about to cross the Jordan River and enter the Promised Land. Their parents had followed Moses out of Egypt, through the parted Red Sea—and yet they rebelled, so God swore that they would not enter the land (Num. 14:20–36). For the Israelites to accomplish their mission and for God to establish the work of their hands (Ps. 90:17), the people need to embrace the covenant and live in faith toward God. Those who sing this should see themselves as the heirs of that generation, seeking God’s blessing so that they can carry out their mission.
Ps. 90:16–17 Let your work be shown, that is, display your love toward your people in great deeds of power that enable them to flourish. to their children. God made his covenant with Abraham and with his offspring (who must themselves embrace the covenant). The OT faithful seek the continuation of the people through their own faithful children (see 78:3–8; 103:17; 145:4).
Ps. 91:1–2 The Lord is a secure defense (shelter, shadow, refuge, fortress) for those who take refuge in him.
Fact: What are fowlers?
What are fowlers? A “fowler” is someone who traps birds. In the Scriptures, it is used figuratively to describe active enemies of God’s people. The psalmist describes God as delivering his people from the fowler’s snare (91:3; 124:7).
Ps. 91:3–8 These verses list the benefits that come to those who trust in the Lord. The snare of the fowler (v. 3) seems to be a metaphor for the schemes of those who hate the faithful. Pestilence (vv. 3, 6) and destruction are diseases that God sends on his enemies or his unfaithful people (see Ex. 5:3; 9:15). The terror and arrow, together with a thousand may fall, envision God’s people under attack. Psalm 91:8 notes that God sends plagues and battles as recompense on the wicked (whether Gentile or Israelite). In such times, the faithful can trust God not to judge them as he does the wicked.
Ps. 91:10 The mention of a plague recalls the plagues that fell on Egypt (see Gen. 12:17; Ex. 11:1). As happened then, the faithful are safe in a time of God’s judgment.
Fact: Satan knows the Scriptures
Satan knows the Scriptures. Psalm 91:11–12 was quoted by Satan when he tempted Jesus in the desert (Matt. 4:6). Of course, he misapplied it for his own evil purposes. In no way do these verses mean that believers should put themselves in unnecessary danger.
Psalm Ps. 91. This tender psalm describes the confidence that the believer may have through all types of dangers and challenges.
Ps. 91:14–16 The psalm closes by laying out what trust in God looks like (holds fast to me in love, knows my name, and calls to God) and by repeating God’s pledge to care for his faithful ones (deliver, protect, answer, be with him in trouble, rescue, honor). Such a person will have long life (probably implying eternal life; see note on 23:5–6) and will enjoy God’s salvation.
Ps. 92:1–5 One of the most basic acts of Sabbath worship is celebrating God’s greatness in creation and his goodness toward the faithful. The songs honor God for what he has revealed about himself, recalling Ex. 34:5–7, where God explained his name. God’s work and works are the great deeds he has done in creating the world and in caring for his people.
Ps. 92:10 exalted my horn. See note on 75:4. The wild ox was known for its strength, and its horns were effective for goring (see 22:21; Deut. 33:17).
Ps. 92:6–11 This section draws a contrast between the members of the people who are unfaithful to the covenant (called stupid, fool, wicked, God’s enemies, and evildoers, vv. 6–9) and those who love and trust the Lord (the “I” singing the psalm). The unfaithful fail to understand that, no matter how they might flourish for the moment, God’s will alone prevails in the end.
Psalm Ps. 92. This is a hymn of thanks and praise to God, specifically celebrating the blessing of the Sabbath in Israel. The Sabbath was a day of rest and for community worship (Lev. 23:3). The title (“A Song for the Sabbath”), the references to morning and evening worship (Ps. 92:2), to the musical instruments used in worship (v. 3), and to the temple (v. 13) all reveal that worship is the focus of the psalm.
Ps. 92:12–15 See Heb. 4:9. The faithful flourish like the palm tree, that is, the long-lived and stately date palm; see Ps. 92:14). They flourish in the courts of our God, which describes abiding in God’s presence (see 23:6) as opposed to the temporary “flourishing” of the evildoers (92:7), who “are doomed to destruction” (v. 7).
Ps. 93:1 the world . . . shall never be moved. See 46:5; 125:1; note on 10:6. The expression probably means that the world’s ongoing order (and the moral principles that underlie that order) are faithful and sure, guaranteed by God’s own faithfulness.
Ps. 93:1–2 The Lord reigns as king. Because his throne is established and secure, the world is established. It is a stable and reliable place to live.
Ps. 93:3–4 To an Israelite, the raging sea (also called floods and many waters) was the most vivid picture of uncontrollable chaos. The divine king is mightier than even that.
Psalm Ps. 93. Psalms 29; 93; and 95–99 are hymns of praise for God’s kingly rule over creation. The idea of God as universal king is rooted in the creation account. It is Israel’s great privilege to be ruled by the God who is the universal Creator and Lord, who one day will rule all nations. Belief that God reigns is the ultimate solution to doubt and despair (see 89:38–51).
Ps. 93:5 God’s decrees are very trustworthy and holiness befits his house. The laws given to Israel are based on God’s own character, which the moral laws of the universe reflect.
Ps. 94:1 Vengeance is founded on God’s justice. He brings his righteous judgment on those who oppose him and harm his people (see Deut. 32:41, 43; Ps. 18:47). God will judge the unfaithful among his own people as well as the Gentiles (see 99:8).
Fact: Vengeance
The word vengeance is used in Ps. 94:1 to describe one way in which the Lord brings about justice in the world. Individual Israelites were forbidden to seek personal vengeance (Lev. 19:18). However, it was the duty of the civil government to ensure just retribution against wrongdoers (Ex. 21:20).
Ps. 94:2–3 The proud are those who, in their unbelief, elevate themselves above God and dare him to punish them (v. 7). They use their power to take advantage of the weak (vv. 5–6, 21). The right response is to pray to the judge of the earth.
Ps. 94:4–7 These verses list the activities of these evildoers. They pour out their arrogant words and boast (the quoted words of v. 7 are a sample of their boasting). They crush God’s people. They kill the helpless (such as the widow, sojourner, and fatherless). All this is a rejection of God’s standards (see Deut. 14:29; 24:17, 19).
Ps. 94:8 Dullest and fools refer to people who resist the offer of grace in God’s covenant.
Ps. 94:8–11 This is the reply to v. 7. The God who planted the ear, who formed the eye, who disciplines the nations, and who teaches man knowledge is fully aware of everything that goes on, even the thoughts of man.
Ps. 94:12–15 The faithful, who receive instruction from God’s word and live by it (v. 12) are blessed. the LORD will not forsake his people. He will bring them justice.
Ps. 94:16 Who rises up for me? The speaker is the psalmist. The answer is, “God does.”
Ps. 94:20–21 wicked rulers. The ungodly here have power, and they use it to frame injustice and to condemn the innocent to death (which God hates; Ex. 23:7). See Ps. 94:5–6. Such rulers could not possibly be allied with God.
Ps. 94:22 stronghold, rock. See 9:9; 18:2; 144:2.
Psalm Ps. 94. This is a community lament, written for a time when the wicked not only exult (v. 3) but also oppress the faithful (many of whom are socially weak, vv. 5–6). The wicked do so with no fear of God. The song asks God to protect the faithful, and it strengthens the faithful to endure the oppression. The faithful are reminded of God’s exhaustive knowledge of all that people think, do, and say (vv. 8–11); of his steadfast love for his own (v. 18); and of his commitment to bring justice by caring for the weak and putting down the wicked. The “wicked” in this psalm are members of God’s people (v. 8) who in their hearts do not believe in the God of the covenant (v. 7). Though such wicked persons were born into the covenant, they are not part of God’s true “people” or “heritage” (vv. 5, 14). They will suffer the full force of God’s judgment.
Ps. 95:1–7a The singers invite one another to the great privilege of worshiping the LORD, the great God, the great King above all gods. The marvel of being Israel is that such a majestic King has pledged himself to his people, making them the sheep of his hand (see note on 74:1–3).
Ps. 95:7b–8 Today. There is a strong connection between the day on which the congregation sings and the day at Massah, when their ancestors disbelieved. do not harden your hearts. The biblical writers use “heart” for the central core of the person’s thoughts, feelings, and choices (see Prov. 4:23). To “harden the heart” is to make it dull and unresponsive to God, and thus to strengthen it in disbelief.
Psalm Ps. 95. This psalm encourages its singers to learn from the rebellion of a previous generation. They should faithfully heed God’s “voice” (vv. 7–8). The psalm sees the Israelites’ grumbling against Moses at Meribah and Massah as an early indication of their persistent unbelief, which caused them to refuse to enter the land. The psalm has two parts. The first is a celebration of God’s kingship and the privilege that his people enjoy as they worship him (vv. 1–7a). The second is a warning not to repeat the rebellion of their ancestors (vv. 7b–11).
Ps. 95:7b–11 Since worship includes the priests reading and explaining the Scriptures, the worshipers will hear his voice, but they must then believe and obey their great King. This section focuses on the inner self, the heart, where one accepts or rejects the grace of the covenant.
Ps. 95:11 They shall not enter my rest. In the wilderness context, the “rest” is specifically the land (see Deut. 12:9; finally secured during David’s reign, see 2 Sam. 7:1, 11). Since the singing congregation is already in the land, it seems that the psalm is using “rest” as an image of enjoying God’s presence forever (much as Heb. 4:1, 11 does).
Fact: Maker of heaven and earth
Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 95 is one of several psalms that focus on God’s rule over all of creation. God is the ultimate king because he created everything that exists. The Psalms frequently remind God’s people that we owe him our worship and allegiance because it is he who made us.
How are the floods lifting up their voice to the Lord?
Listen NowDive Deeper | Psalm 90-95
When I look back on my own life, I can see God's faithfulness as He supplied my every need. But I would be lying if I said my sinful human heart didn't ever feel unsatisfied. Every time I wallowed in that feeling, I wasn't in the Word. I wasn't walking intimately with Jesus. I was focused on me, myself, and I.
We believe God will not forsake us (Psalm 94:14), but we see in these psalms a beautiful reminder that we have a holy responsibility as well.
“Because he holds fast to me in love, I will deliver him;
I will protect him, because he knows my name.”
Psalm 91:14
These songs are full of declaring promises of God's provision, protection, and satisfaction while also seeing the part we must play in choosing to hold fast to God and know His name. We are reminded of all the ways our God supplies us with our every need. He is the "God of Jacob," "judge of the earth," "God of vengeance," "rock of our salvation," and a mighty warrior "robed in majesty." He judges rightly with power, protects His people, and even cares for our anxious thoughts.
When the cares of my heart are many,
your consolations cheer my soul.
Psalm 94:19
We follow the examples of David and Moses in these songs by singing of God's goodness and faithfulness throughout all circumstances with worship in song, prayer, or meditation on His Word.
In Matthew, we see the devil quote Psalm 91:11-12 in the midst of tempting Jesus (Matthew 4:6). And our sinless Savior responds with Scripture in times of temptation. How much more must we worship in His truth at all times and in every circumstance.
". . . from everlasting to everlasting you are God." May we never forget the words of Psalm 90:2.
This month's memory verse
"How can a young man keep his way pure? By guarding it according to your word. With my whole heart I seek you; let me not wander from your commandments! I have stored up your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you."
– Psalm 119:9-11
Discussion Questions
1. In what areas of your life have you felt unsatisfied? What steps can you take to invite the Lord into these parts of your life and surrender them to Him? Acknowledge them, write them down, share them with trusted friends, and expectantly watch Him work!
2. In Psalm 95, we see a joyful call to worship in a posture of praise. Spend some time in worship today and, just like it says in verses 7-8, "Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts . . . ." What did He teach you in this worship time?
3. Psalm 92 reminds us that it is good to praise the Lord and "declare [His] steadfast love in the morning, and [His] faithfulness by night . . . ." What are some reasons for you to praise the Lord and declare His faithfulness today?
4. Which name of God do you find yourself most drawn to? Why? Share with your community why this specific name of God speaks to you and your relationship with Him.