Turn Us Again Oh Lord: Psalm 80

Introduction: In Psalm 80, we find God’s intimate knowledge, understanding, and guidance that surpasses all human comprehension. This particular Psalm, authored by Asaph, is a powerful supplication for restoration and revival. It speaks about the nation of Israel’s desperate need for God’s intervention, reflecting on God’s past mercies, and pleading for His saving power and wisdom to guide them once more. It offers a timeless, inspirational message of divine wisdom and mercy, inviting us to seek divine wisdom in our lives.

I. Psalm 80:1: God as the Shepherd who Guides with Divine Wisdom
In Psalm 80:1, Asaph calls upon God as the Shepherd of Israel, who leads Joseph like a flock. This imagery of God as a shepherd symbolizes his divine wisdom in guiding and protecting his people. This concept is reflected in other parts of the Bible, such as Psalm 23:1, John 10: 11-14, and 1 Peter 2:25, where God is depicted as the Good Shepherd providing divine guidance to His flock.

II. Psalm 80:2-3: The Divine Wisdom in God’s Presence
The verses 2 and 3 of Psalm 80 reflect the wisdom of God’s presence, with the people pleading for God to shine forth, stir up His might, and save them. This plea reflects acknowledgment of God’s wisdom and the understanding that His presence brings salvation and restoration. Similar pleas for God’s presence and wisdom can be seen in Psalm 27:1, Exodus 33:15, and Nehemiah 9:19.

III. Psalm 80: 4-7: The Wisdom in Acknowledging God’s Judgment
In these verses, Asaph acknowledges God’s anger towards their sins and pleads for His mercy. This acknowledgment exemplifies wisdom, understanding that God’s judgments are just and right. This concept is echoed in Deuteronomy 32:4, Psalm 7:11, and Revelation 16:7, each depicting God’s righteous judgment and the wisdom in acknowledging it.

IV. Psalm 80:8-11: Divine Wisdom in Remembering God’s Past Mercies
Verses 8 through 11 depict the Israelites recalling how God had delivered them in the past. This remembrance signifies divine wisdom, understanding God’s faithfulness and mercy. It resonates with passages such as Deuteronomy 8:2, Psalm 136:12-14, and Ephesians 2:12, where remembering God’s past mercies is encouraged.

V. Psalm 80: 12-16: The Wisdom in Seeking God’s Protection
In these verses, the people of Israel plead for God’s protection, recognizing their vulnerability without His divine wisdom and guidance. This concept aligns with other biblical passages like Psalm 121:2, Proverbs 18:10, and 2 Thessalonians 3:3, emphasizing the wisdom in seeking God’s protection.

VI. Psalm 80:17-19: The Wisdom in Seeking God’s Salvation
The final verses of Psalm 80 implore God to revive them that they may call upon His name. This plea reflects the profound wisdom in seeking God’s salvation and understanding that only He can truly save. This theme mirrors other scriptures such as Acts 4:12, Romans 10:13, and Ephesians 2:8, all highlighting the wisdom in seeking and accepting God’s salvation.

Conclusion: Summing it up, Psalm 80 sheds light on the narrative of divine wisdom, acknowledging God as the Shepherd who guides, the presence that saves, and the judge who chastises. It recalls His past mercies and seeks His protection and salvation. The Psalm, though specific to the Israelites in their time of need, offers timeless lessons for every believer, reminding us to seek divine wisdom in all facets of our lives. The path of divine wisdom is one of acknowledging God’s sovereignty, remembering His goodness, and relying on His salvation.