Psalm 75:1-10 &Psalm 76:1-12
Q.1. How did Asaph view God? How will God treat the wicked? How did God’s sovereignty comfort the Psalmist? – (Ps.75:1-10)
In this Psalm Asaph presented God as the Judge over all creation. He recognized that it is He who will – select an appointed time … and that He will – judge with equity (Ps.75:2). He wanted people to remember that God is in total control of the past, present, and future (Ps.75:3). For that reason, it is inappropriate to be boastful and filled with pride – for not from the east nor from the west, nor from the desert comes exaltation (Ps.75:6 c.f. Ps.75:4-5). All should keep in mind that – God is the Judge; He puts down one and exalts another (Ps.75:7). He described God’s judgment in terms of the crushing process in making wine (Ps.75:8). However, for Asaph, God’s ultimate display of strength and justice in judgment was a reason for comfort and joy (Ps.75:1, 9-10).
Q.2. Where did Asaph direct his worship? Why should God be feared? In what way will the wrath God against sin bring Him praise? – (Ps.75:1-12)
The place God chose to exult His name was Jerusalem (Ps.76:2 c.f. Deut.12:5; Ps.48:1-2). This place was taken from the Jebusites to become Israel’s capital city … the City of David (Ps.76:1 c.f. 2 Sam.5:3-10). It was there, on Mount Moriah, where Abraham offered his son, Isaac. This also was the site purchased by David, and the place where Solomon built the Temple (c.f. Gen 22:2, 12-16; 2 Sam.24:23-25; 2 Chron.3:1; Heb.11:17-19). It was at Jerusalem where Abraham gave tithes to Melchizedek … the King of Peace and Righteousness (Ps.76:1-2 c.f. Gen.14:18-20; Heb.7:1-3). Asaph worshiped God, Who ruled triumphantly from this place (Ps.76:3 c.f. 2 Chron.7:12-16). This fortress was unconquerable because God fights for His people so – You, even You, are to be feared; And who may stand in Your presence when once You are angry (Ps.76:7). God should be feared, but the humble can trust Him to save them (Ps.76:9). God’s wrath against the sin of man will ultimately bring Him praise, when He reveals how special to Him are His redeemed (Ps.76:10 c.f. Mal.3:16-18; 2 Thes.1:5 10). Asaph encouraged God’s people to fulfill their vows to the Lord, because the day will come when He judges the ungodly (Ps.76:8 & 11-12).