Introduction: Psalm 81 is a unique and powerful song which acts as a plea from God to His people, Israel, to listen to His voice and obey His laws. It is a call for worship and obedience, an appeal to remember God’s deliverance and provision in the past, and a promise of continued blessings in the future if they keep His commands. This Psalm is a blend of history, prophecy, and worship, and it emphasizes the might, grace, and righteousness of God.
I. Psalm 81:1-3- The Call to Worship
Psalm 81 starts with a call to worship God, to sing aloud to the God of Jacob, and to lift up a song with the tambourine, the lyre, and the harp. This is echoed in Ephesians 5:19, where believers are encouraged to speak to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. The call to worship is also seen in Psalm 95:1-2, which urges us to come before Him with joyful songs. We also see in Psalm 98:4-5, the command to make a joyful noise to the Lord, break forth in joyous song and sing praises.
II. Psalm 81:4-5 – The Reminder of God’s Deliverance
Verses 4 and 5 remind the Israelites of the law established in Joseph’s time, when God delivered them from Egypt. This call to remember God’s deliverance is replicated in Deuteronomy 5:15, which tells the Israelites to remember that they were slaves in Egypt and that the Lord their God brought them out of there with a mighty hand. Exodus 13:3 also reiterates this command to remember the day of their deliverance. Psalm 105:43 speaks of how God brought His people out with joy, His chosen ones with singing.
III. Psalm 81:6-10 – God’s Desire for Israel’s Obedience
Verses 6-10 highlight God’s plea for Israel’s obedience, stating His readiness to provide and protect if they obey Him. The theme of obedience resulting in blessings is also seen in Deuteronomy 28:1-2, where obedience leads to the blessing of the Lord. John 14:15 also emphasizes the connection between love for God and obedience to His commands. In 1 Samuel 15:22, the importance of obedience over sacrifice is demonstrated.
IV. Psalm 81:11-16 – The Consequences of Disobedience
Lastly, verses 11-16 show the consequences of Israel’s disobedience and what could have been if they had obeyed. This concept is reflected in Deuteronomy 28:15, where disobedience leads to curses. Romans 6:23 also reminds us that the wages of sin is death. Despite this, God’s desire for His people’s return is evident, evidenced by Joel 2:12-13, which calls for the people to return to the Lord with all their heart.
Conclusion: Psalm 81 is a potent reminder of the importance of obedience to God and the blessings that come with it. It is a call to remember God’s past deliverance, to worship Him with joy, and to listen to His voice. The power of this Psalm lies in its timeless relevance, illustrating the consequences of straying from God’s commands and the abundant life that comes with obedience. As believers, Psalm 81 challenges us to examine our lives, emphasizing the importance of staying true to God’s word, and rejoicing in His blessings.
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