"Surely his salvation is near those who fear him, that his glory may dwell in our land. Love & faithfulness meet together; righteousness and peace kiss each other."

Psalm 85:9-10

The psalmist begins by recognizing how God restored his people after a period of distress caused by the Lord’s anger but brought to an end because of the Lord’s forgiveness (vv. 1–3). Nevertheless, the people still need restoration and forgiveness (vv. 4–6). There is a tension between the past and the present. The remedy for this tension is found in God’s promises and in the willingness to listen to God (v. . Only God can resolve the tension. Only he can bring shalom and his faithful covenantal love to his people (vv. 10, 11). He will do what is necessary to maintain that relationship, so the psalmist can look forward to when God will restore the people and the land (v. 12). This hope can be realized in the cross of our Lord Jesus; it is the place where God’s love, faithfulness, and righteousness meet so that we can know his shalom. We are continually forgiven and restored!

CLOSING PRAYER

Holy Spirit, thank you for drawing me into faith in Jesus, and for affirming his faithful love, care, and forgiveness that is mine each day.