Introduction: Psalm 75 is a dynamic hymn of praise that acknowledges God’s divine judgement and sovereignty. The Psalmist describes a time of upheaval and turmoil, yet remains hopeful because of his deep-seated belief in the ultimate righteousness and fairness of God’s judgement. This Psalm paints a vivid picture of a God who is fully in control of the universe, even when it appears chaotic and unjust from our limited human perspective. It sends an uplifting message that God, being the righteous judge, will not allow the wicked to thrive indefinitely.
I. Psalm 75:1 – Thanksgiving to God for His Righteous Judgement
Here, the Psalmist acknowledges God’s name and wondrous works by recounting experiences of His righteous judgment. This can be seen as a reflection of the same theme in other parts of the Bible: 1 Chronicles 16:34, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever,” Psalms 107:1, “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever,” and 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
II. Psalm 75:2-3 – God’s Sovereign Timing
The Psalmist here highlights God’s sovereign timing in judgement, “I choose the appointed time; it is I who judge with equity. When the earth and all its people quake, it is I who hold its pillars firm.” The stability of God’s foundation amidst earthly turmoil is echoed in Job 38:4-6, 1 Samuel 2:8, and Matthew 24:35.
III. Psalm 75:4-5 – Warning Against Arrogance
This section serves as a reminder of God’s disdain for arrogance and pride. Similar warnings against pride are found in Proverbs 8:13, “To fear the Lord is to hate evil; I hate pride and arrogance, evil behavior and perverse speech,” James 4:6, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble,” and 1 Peter 5:6, “Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”
IV. Psalm 75:6-8 – The Source of Honor and Judgement
The Psalmist recognizes that honor and judgement come only from God. This recognition is underscored in several other verses such as 1 Samuel 2:7, “The Lord sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts,” Daniel 2:21, “He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others,” and James 4:10, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
V. Psalm 75:9-10 – Assurance of God’s Justice
The Psalm concludes with assurance of God’s justice and the downfall of the wicked, while the righteous will be exalted. This echoes the sentiments found in Proverbs 11:21, “Be sure of this: The wicked will not go unpunished, but those who are righteous will go free,” Psalm 37:17, “For the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous,” and Romans 2:6, “God will repay each person according to what they have done.”
Conclusion: Psalm 75 provides an uplifting message about God’s ultimate control and righteous judgment. It encourages us to trust God’s timing, resist arrogance, and remember that honor comes from God alone. The assurance of God’s justice serves as a comforting promise that despite the seeming triumph of wickedness in the world, God will ultimately uphold the cause of the righteous. As believers, we can find comfort and encouragement in this Psalm, knowing that God is in control and His judgement is always fair and righteous. It remains an inspiration to all, confirming that God, in all His might and sovereignty, is upholding the pillars of the earth, ensuring justice, and maintaining balance in the universe.
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