Psalms 92 - Printer Friendly

The title of this psalm connects it to the Sabbath, but the relationship is not explicit. Since the song deals with confidence and assurance, it matches the spirit of "rest" in the Lord which the Sabbath day intends. This song is deeply certain of the Lord's goodness. This makes it a counterpoint to passages such as Psalm 88, which only expresses worries and anguish.

The psalmist begins by rallying others to praise and worship the Lord. Looking back on His incredible miracles and perfect Word should inspire such a response. At all times, God's work produces joy in those who trust Him and honor His name (Psalm 92:1–4).

Absolute confidence in God comes from understanding His divine nature. The Lord is divinely powerful. His mind is perfect. Compared to limited human beings, He is infinitely strong and all-knowing. All our struggles to understand His will come from this difference: God is God and we are not. Here, the psalmist applies that to the angst we feel when evil people are successful (Psalm 73:2–3). A wise person realizes that those who reject the Lord are bound for eternal doom (Psalm 73:15–18). Foolish people are those who abandon God when evil temporarily advances (Psalm 92:5–11).

The end of the song focuses on the blessings associated with remaining true to the Lord. The passage refers to anointing, which was a sign of protection and favor. In contrast to the evil ones who are "scattered" (Psalm 92:9), those who remain loyal to the Lord can expect ultimate victory. Because God is omnipotent, omniscient, and good, His people can be absolutely assured of His promises (Psalm 92:12–15).

Psalm 92:5–11 begins with a reminder of God's previous works and His divine perspective. It is tempting to be discouraged when evil people flourish. But a wise person remembers that God is ultimately in control; those who oppose the Lord are doomed to eternal failure. In contrast, those who honor Him will be protected and made whole.

Psalm 92:12–15 emphasizes the blessings which come from loyalty to God. Prior verses noted that evil people may appear to gain rapid success (Psalm 92:7), but this is very brief. The only lasting victory comes for those who belong to the Lord. This short earthly life may be difficult, but the eternal state will further prove God's victory and righteousness.

The indication that this is "a song for the Sabbath" is not clearly defined. Unlike some psalms which explore doubt and frustration (Psalm 13; 73; 74), this song expresses perfect confidence in the Lord. This makes psalm 92 a counterbalance of Psalm 88, which expresses only angst without giving resolution. God's deeds and truths are evidence of His power, and those who do evil will surely face His wrath (Psalm 73:15–18).

The book of Psalms is composed of individual songs, hymns, or poems, each of which is a ''Psalm'' in and of itself. These works contain a wide variety of themes. Some Psalms focus on praising and worshipping God. Others cry out in anguish over the pain of life. Still other Psalms look forward to the coming of the Messiah. While some Psalms are related, each has its own historical and biblical context.