◄ Psalm 85 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
You Showed Favor to Your Land For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah. 1 You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity.a 2You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin. Selah 3You withheld all Your fury; You turned from Your burning anger. 4Restore us, O God of our salvation, and put away Your displeasure toward us. 5Will You be angry with us forever? Will You draw out Your anger to all generations? 6Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You? 7Show us Your loving devotion, O LORD, and grant us Your salvation. 8I will listen to what God the LORD will say; for He will surely speak peace to His people and His saints; He will not let them return to folly. 9Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that His glory may dwell in our land. 10Loving devotion and faithfulness have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed. 11Faithfulness sprouts from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. 12The LORD will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase. 13Righteousness will go before Him to prepare the way for His steps. Footnotes: 1 a Or restored the fortunes of Jacob Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Psalm 85 Summary You Showed Favor to Your Land Verses 1–3 – Remembered Favor The psalmist recalls how the LORD once lifted Israel’s captivity, wiped away iniquity, and calmed His wrath. Looking back fuels faith for the present. Verses 4–7 – Renewed Petition On the strength of past mercy, the community pleads: “Restore us… revive us… show us Your loving devotion.” They long for fresh joy and salvation. Verses 8–9 – Listening Hope A spokesman vows to “listen to what God the LORD will say.” Peace and nearness are promised to those who fear Him, provided they turn from folly. Verses 10–13 – Promised Restoration The psalm ends in confident vision: steadfast love and truth embrace, righteousness and peace kiss, earth and heaven answer each other, and the LORD Himself walks ahead to bless the land. Psalm 85 is a poignant and hopeful prayer from the psalmist on behalf of the nation of Israel. It is a profound reflection on God's mercy, the people's repentance, and the divine promise of restoration. This psalm draws us into a thoughtful meditation on the harmony of God's love and justice, offering a message that still resonates with believers today. Authorship and Date • Superscription: “For the choirmaster. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.” • The sons of Korah served as Temple singers (1 Chronicles 6:31-38). Their style often blends national lament with worshipful hope (compare Psalm 42-49; 84; 87-88). • Internal hints—reference to a past restoration yet the need for a new one—fit either: ‑ Post-exilic Judah after Cyrus’s decree (Ezra 1:1-4), when the first return had begun but walls and fortunes were still broken (Nehemiah 1). ‑ Or earlier, after Hezekiah’s deliverance from Assyria (2 Kings 19), yet before full renewal. Most conservative scholars favor the post-exilic context because of the land/restoration language and the continuing plea for revival. Historical Setting • “You restored Jacob from captivity” (v.1) resonates with 538 BC and the return from Babylon. • Archaeology: The Cyrus Cylinder (British Museum) confirms the Persian policy of repatriating exiles and funding temple rebuilding, matching Ezra 1. • Yet by 445 BC the walls of Jerusalem still lay in ruins (Nehemiah 1-2). Psalm 85 voices the tension between initial freedom and ongoing hardship. Structure and Literary Notes 1-3 – Thanksgiving for former rescue 4-7 – National prayer for renewed mercy 8-9 – Prophetic response of assurance 10-13 – Poetic vision of full restoration • Chiastic movement: past grace → present need → divine reply → future glory. • Vivid personification: “righteousness and peace have kissed” paints moral qualities as friends greeting in public square. Key Themes • Remembering God’s acts builds faith (Deuteronomy 8:2). • Confession precedes revival (2 Chronicles 7:14). • God’s character unites love, truth, righteousness, and peace (Exodus 34:6-7; John 1:14). • Land blessing ties to covenant obedience (Leviticus 26; Zechariah 8:12). Verse-by-Verse Highlights v 2 “You covered all their sin.” — Points to the sacrificial system (Leviticus 16) and foreshadows ultimate covering in Christ (Hebrews 9:11-14). v 6 “Will You not revive us again…?” — Echoes Habakkuk 3:2, underlining continuous need for spiritual awakening. v 8 “He will surely speak peace” — Same root as the priestly blessing “shalom” (Numbers 6:26). v 10 “Loving devotion and truth have joined together” — Anticipates Psalm 89:14; fulfilled in Jesus who embodies “grace and truth” (John 1:17). v 13 “Righteousness will go before Him” — Mirrors Isaiah 40:3 about preparing the way for the LORD, applied to John the Baptist (Matthew 3:3). Christ-Centered Connections • Past “restoration” (v 1) prefigures deliverance accomplished at the cross (Colossians 1:13-14). • The union of righteousness and peace (v 10) culminates at Calvary where justice met mercy (Romans 3:25-26; 5:1). • The land yielding its increase (v 12) hints at the coming kingdom when creation itself is liberated (Romans 8:19-21). • “Righteousness will go before Him” (v 13) anticipates the Messiah’s reign of justice (Isaiah 11:4-5). The Land and Archaeology • Post-exilic Judea showed modest agricultural recovery—grain pits, olive presses, and terrace farming remnants around Jerusalem attest to renewed cultivation, matching v 12. • Persian period coins inscribed “YHD” (Yehud) reflect limited autonomy under Cyrus and Darius, aligning with the prayer for fuller freedom. Use in Worship Across Scripture • Verse 6 fuels revival prayers in many eras. • Verses 10-11 inspire hymns such as “Truth from the Earth, Righteousness from Heaven.” • The prophetic response (vv 8-9) echoes in Zechariah’s proclamation: “The LORD… will return to dwell in Jerusalem” (Zechariah 8:3). Connections to Other Prophets and Psalms • Similar cry: “Restore us, O God” (Psalm 80:3). • Shared vision: “The desert will blossom” (Isaiah 35:1) parallels land productivity in v 12. • Hosea 2:19-20 couples steadfast love and faithfulness, like v 10. • Micah 7:18-20 rejoices in forgiven sin, harking back to vv 2-3. Practical Application Today • Remember past deliverances to combat present discouragement. • National and personal revival begins with honest confession and a fresh plea for mercy. • Expect God to speak peace; cultivate ears that listen. • Seek balanced living where truth, love, righteousness, and peace meet—mirroring God’s own harmony. • Work and pray for the flourishing of your “land”—family, church, community—trusting the LORD to “grant what is good” (v 12). Summary Snapshot Psalm 85 moves from memory to petition, from listening to hope, ending in a picture of heaven’s values invading earth. The God who once restored His people promises to do so again, ultimately through the righteous King whose steps prepare the way for lasting peace. Connections to Additional Scriptures 2 Chronicles 7:14 And My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, forgive their sin, and heal their land. Isaiah 57:19 Bringing words of praise to their lips. 'Peace, peace to those far and near,' says the LORD, 'and I will heal them.' Romans 5:1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Teaching Points God's Past Faithfulness The psalm begins by recalling God's past deeds. You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity (Psalm 85:1). This sets the foundation for the psalmist's confidence in God's ability to act again. A Plea for Restoration The psalmist urgently requests God's intervention: Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away Your displeasure toward us (Psalm 85:4). This highlights the importance of seeking God's mercy in times of distress. The Promise of Peace The psalmist expresses hope in God's promise: I will listen to what God the LORD will say; for He will surely speak peace to His people and His saints (Psalm 85:8). This emphasizes the assurance of God's peace for those who turn to Him. Righteousness and Peace Kiss The psalm beautifully describes the meeting of righteousness and peace: Loving devotion and faithfulness have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed (Psalm 85:10). This imagery underscores the harmony that comes from God's presence. God's Salvation and Glory The psalm concludes with a vision of God's salvation and glory: Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that His glory may dwell in our land (Psalm 85:9). This points to the ultimate hope of God's kingdom. Practical Applications Reflect on God's Past Mercies Take time to remember and thank God for His past faithfulness in your life. Let this remembrance fuel your faith in His present and future provision. Pray for Restoration In times of personal or communal distress, boldly ask God for restoration and renewal, trusting in His power to transform situations. Seek God's Peace Actively listen for God's voice and seek His peace in your daily life. Allow His promises to guide your actions and decisions. Pursue Righteousness Strive to live a life marked by righteousness and peace, reflecting the character of God in your interactions with others. Hope in God's Salvation Keep your eyes fixed on the hope of God's ultimate salvation and glory, allowing this hope to sustain you through challenges. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) The central figure in the psalm, referred to as the one who has shown favor to the land and restored the fortunes of Jacob. The Hebrew root for LORD is "YHWH," which is the covenant name of God. 2. The People of Israel Implicitly referenced as the recipients of God's favor and forgiveness. They are the community seeking restoration and revival. The Hebrew term often used for the people is "Israel" (יִשְׂרָאֵל). 3. The Psalmist While not named, the author of the psalm is a person who intercedes on behalf of the people, asking for God's mercy and salvation. The psalmist acts as a representative voice for the community. Places 1. Land of Israel The Psalm speaks of God's favor and restoration to the land, which is understood to be the land of Israel. The Hebrew word for land, "אֶרֶץ" (eretz), is often used to refer to the physical land promised to the Israelites. 2. Heaven The Psalm implies a heavenly realm where God's glory and righteousness originate. This is inferred from the language of divine attributes descending to earth, suggesting a heavenly source. 3. Earth The Psalm contrasts the divine attributes of heaven with their manifestation on earth. The Hebrew word "אֶרֶץ" (eretz) is again relevant here, indicating the physical world where God's truth and righteousness are realized. Events 1. Remembrance of Past Favor (Verses 1-3) The psalmist recalls God's past mercies, stating, "You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity." The Hebrew word for "restored" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a return to a previous state of blessing. 2. Forgiveness of Iniquity (Verse 2) The psalmist acknowledges God's forgiveness, saying, "You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin." The term "forgave" (נָשָׂא, nasa) suggests lifting or carrying away sin. 3. Cessation of Wrath (Verse 3) The psalmist notes that God "withdrew all Your fury; You turned from Your burning anger." The Hebrew root for "withdrew" (אָסַף, asaph) conveys the idea of gathering or removing wrath. 4. Petition for Restoration (Verses 4-7) A plea is made for God to "restore us again, O God of our salvation," and to "put away Your displeasure toward us." The request for restoration (שׁוּב, shuv) echoes the earlier remembrance of God's past acts. 5. Questioning of Prolonged Anger (Verse 5) The psalmist questions, "Will You be angry with us forever? Will You draw out Your anger to all generations?" This reflects a desire for reconciliation and peace. 6. Hope for Revival (Verse 6) The psalmist expresses hope, asking, "Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?" The word "revive" (חָיָה, chayah) indicates bringing back to life or restoring vitality. 7. Request for Mercy and Salvation (Verse 7) A direct appeal is made: "Show us Your loving devotion, O LORD, and grant us Your salvation." The term "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) is a key Hebrew concept denoting steadfast love and mercy. 8. Promise of Peace (Verses 8-9) The psalmist listens for God's response, anticipating peace: "He will surely speak peace to His people and His saints." The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness and well-being. 9. Nearness of Salvation (Verse 9) The psalmist declares, "Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that His glory may dwell in our land." The proximity of salvation (יְשׁוּעָה, yeshuah) is linked to reverence for God. 10. Union of Mercy and Truth (Verses 10-11) The psalmist poetically describes, "Loving devotion and truth have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed." This imagery highlights the harmonious relationship between divine attributes. 11. Blessings of the Land (Verses 12-13) The psalm concludes with a vision of prosperity: "The LORD will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase." The Hebrew word for "increase" (יְבוּל, yebul) refers to fruitful produce. Lessons from Psalm 85 1. Embrace God's Forgiveness Psalm 85 begins with a powerful reminder of God's forgiveness: "You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity. You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin" (Psalm 85:1-2). This is a call to remember that no matter how far we stray, God's grace is always available. Embrace this forgiveness and let it transform your life, knowing that through Christ, our sins are covered and we are made new. 2. Seek Restoration and Revival The psalmist pleads for revival: "Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?" (Psalm 85:6). This is a reminder that spiritual renewal is essential. Seek God's presence daily, and ask Him to revive your heart. When we are spiritually alive, we can experience true joy and purpose in our lives. 3. Trust in God's Unfailing Love Psalm 85:7 says, "Show us Your loving devotion, O LORD, and grant us Your salvation." God's love is steadfast and unwavering. Trust in His love, knowing that it is the foundation of our salvation. When we rely on His love, we find peace and security, no matter the circumstances. 4. Listen for God's Voice The psalmist declares, "I will listen to what God the LORD will say; for He will surely speak peace to His people and His saints" (Psalm 85:8). Make it a habit to listen for God's voice in your life. Through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit, God speaks to us, offering guidance and peace. Be attentive and open to His direction. 5. Pursue Righteousness and Peace "Righteousness and peace kiss" (Psalm 85:10). This beautiful imagery reminds us that righteousness and peace go hand in hand. Pursue a life of righteousness, aligning your actions with God's will, and you will find peace. Let your life be a testament to the harmony that comes from living in accordance with God's Word. 6. Recognize God's Faithfulness "Faithfulness springs forth from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven" (Psalm 85:11). God's faithfulness is evident in creation and in our lives. Recognize His faithfulness in the small and big things, and let it inspire you to be faithful in your own walk with Him. 7. Expect God's Blessings "The LORD will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase" (Psalm 85:12). Expect God's blessings in your life. When we align ourselves with His will, He provides abundantly. Trust that He knows what is best for you and will supply all your needs. 8. Walk in God's Path "Righteousness will go before Him to prepare the way for His steps" (Psalm 85:13). Walking in God's path means following His lead and trusting His guidance. Let righteousness guide your steps, and you will find yourself on a path that leads to fulfillment and joy. 9. Rejoice in God's Salvation The psalmist's plea for salvation is a reminder to rejoice in the salvation we have through Jesus Christ. Celebrate the gift of eternal life and the freedom from sin that comes through His sacrifice. Let this joy permeate every aspect of your life. 10. Live with Hope Psalm 85 is a psalm of hope, looking forward to God's restoration and blessing. Live with hope, knowing that God is at work in your life and in the world. No matter the challenges you face, hold onto the hope that comes from knowing Christ and His promises. Topics 1. Remembrance of Past Mercies The psalm begins with a reflection on God's past mercies and favor towards His people. "You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity." (Psalm 85:1). The Hebrew root for "restored" (שׁוּב, shuv) implies a turning back or returning, indicating God's action in bringing His people back to a state of blessing. 2. Forgiveness of Sins The psalmist acknowledges God's forgiveness of the people's iniquities. "You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin." (Psalm 85:2). The Hebrew word for "forgave" (נָשָׂא, nasa) conveys the idea of lifting or carrying away, emphasizing the removal of sin. 3. Appeal for Restoration A plea is made for God to restore His people once more. "Restore us, O God of our salvation, and put away Your displeasure toward us." (Psalm 85:4). The request for restoration (שׁוּב, shuv) is repeated, underscoring the desire for a return to divine favor. 4. Desire for Revival The psalmist expresses a longing for revival and renewed joy in God. "Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You?" (Psalm 85:6). The Hebrew root for "revive" (חָיָה, chayah) suggests bringing back to life or vitality. 5. Prayer for Mercy and Salvation A call for God's mercy and salvation is made. "Show us Your loving devotion, O LORD, and grant us Your salvation." (Psalm 85:7). The term "loving devotion" (חֶסֶד, chesed) is rich in meaning, often translated as steadfast love or covenant faithfulness. 6. Promise of Peace and Righteousness The psalm concludes with a vision of peace and righteousness. "Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that His glory may dwell in our land." (Psalm 85:9). The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony. 7. Union of Mercy and Truth The psalmist envisions a harmonious union of divine attributes. "Loving devotion and truth have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed." (Psalm 85:10). This poetic imagery highlights the perfect balance of God's character. 8. Fruitfulness and Prosperity The psalm ends with a hopeful picture of the land's fruitfulness. "The LORD will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase." (Psalm 85:12). The Hebrew concept of "increase" (יְבוּל, yebul) refers to the produce or yield of the land, symbolizing blessing and abundance. Themes 1. Restoration and Favor Psalm 85 begins with a reflection on God's past favor and restoration of His people: "You showed favor to Your land, O LORD; You restored Jacob from captivity" (Psalm 85:1). The Hebrew word for "restored" (שׁוּב, shub) implies a turning back or returning, highlighting God's mercy in bringing His people back to a state of blessing. 2. Forgiveness and Covering of Sin The psalmist acknowledges God's forgiveness: "You forgave the iniquity of Your people; You covered all their sin" (Psalm 85:2). The Hebrew word for "forgave" (נָשָׂא, nasa) conveys the idea of lifting or carrying away sin, while "covered" (כָּסָה, kasah) suggests a concealing or hiding of sin, emphasizing God's grace. 3. Divine Anger and Mercy The theme of God's anger and subsequent mercy is evident: "You withdrew all Your fury; You turned from Your burning anger" (Psalm 85:3). The Hebrew root for "anger" (אַף, aph) often denotes a flaring of nostrils, symbolizing intense wrath, yet God chooses to turn away from it, demonstrating His mercy. 4. Petition for Revival The psalmist pleads for revival and salvation: "Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away Your displeasure toward us" (Psalm 85:4). The request for restoration (שׁוּב, shub) is repeated, underscoring a desire for renewed spiritual vitality and divine favor. 5. Peace and Righteousness A vision of peace and righteousness is presented: "Love and faithfulness have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed" (Psalm 85:10). The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness and well-being, while "righteousness" (צֶדֶק, tsedeq) refers to moral integrity and justice. 6. Truth and Faithfulness The psalm highlights the interplay of truth and faithfulness: "Faithfulness sprouts from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven" (Psalm 85:11). The Hebrew term for "faithfulness" (אֱמוּנָה, emunah) implies steadfastness and reliability, reflecting God's unwavering commitment to His promises. 7. Divine Provision and Blessing The psalm concludes with an assurance of God's provision: "The LORD will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase" (Psalm 85:12). The promise of provision (טוֹב, tov) and increase (יָבוּל, yabul) signifies God's ongoing blessing and care for His creation. Prayer Points Thanksgiving for God's Faithfulness Praise God for His past mercies and faithfulness in your life and community. Intercession for Restoration Pray for areas in your life, church, or nation that need God's restorative touch. Petition for Peace Ask God to speak His peace into your heart and circumstances, and for His peace to reign in the world. Commitment to Righteousness Seek God's help in living a life that reflects His righteousness and peace. Hope in Salvation Pray for a renewed hope in God's salvation and for His glory to be revealed in your life and community. Answering Tough Questions 1. Psalm 85:1 – How do we reconcile Israel’s supposed restoration from captivity with historical records that do not confirm such an event at that time? 2. Psalm 85:2–3 – Why does God’s forgiveness here seem to conflict with other biblical passages depicting severe and unforgiving judgment? 3. Psalm 85:8–9 – How does this promise of peace and deliverance align with historical evidence of ongoing conflicts in ancient Israel? 4. Psalm 85:10–11 – Does the poetic imagery of truth springing from the earth clash with scientific understanding or archaeological findings? 5. Psalm 85 – How can we harmonize this psalm’s hope for national revival with other biblical texts that emphasize permanent punishment or exile? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Psalm 85 exemplify the Psalmist’s faith in God's promises, despite the challenges faced by Israel? 2. What are some examples from your own life where you have witnessed God's mercy and forgiveness? 3. How does the psalmist’s reflection on God's past mercies inspire hope for future mercy and restoration? 4. In verses 4-7, the psalmist pleads for renewed mercy. How can this passage inform your own prayers in times of personal or communal distress? 5. How can you cultivate a sense of attentiveness, as depicted in verses 8-9, to hear God's promise in your life? 6. What does the interplay of God's attributes (love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace) in verses 10-13 mean to you? 7. How does Psalm 85 affirm the hope and expectation of God’s glory dwelling in the land? 8. How can you apply the message of hope and restoration in Psalm 85 to present-day challenges in your community or the world at large? 9. How might Psalm 85 guide you in seeking God's guidance during difficult times? 10. How can the attributes of God as described in this Psalm provide a template for personal character growth? 11. How does the concept of divine justice in this Psalm relate to modern understandings of justice? 12. How does the Psalmist's patient waiting for God's word inspire your own approach to seeking and hearing God's guidance? 13. What practical steps can you take to promote love, faithfulness, righteousness, and peace in your daily life? 14. How does this Psalm encourage you to balance remembrance of God’s past mercies with anticipation of His future blessings? 15. How can the psalmist’s pleas for mercy and restoration guide your intercessory prayers for your community or nation? 16. What does "God's glory dwelling in our land" mean in a contemporary context? 17. How can Psalm 85's view of righteousness and peace lead to action in your life? 18. In the light of this Psalm, how can we pray for our nations today? 19. How does the vision of love and faithfulness meeting together inspire your understanding of reconciliation in your relationships? 20. How does Psalm 85 influence your understanding of God’s nature and His plan for His people? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions