◄ Psalm 94 ►
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Berean Standard Bible | Par ▾
The LORD Will Not Forget His People 1O LORD, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth. 2Rise up, O Judge of the earth; render a reward to the proud. 3How long will the wicked, O LORD, how long will the wicked exult? 4They pour out arrogant words; all workers of iniquity boast. 5They crush Your people, O LORD; they oppress Your heritage. 6They kill the widow and the foreigner; they murder the fatherless. 7They say, “The LORD does not see; the God of Jacob pays no heed.” 8Take notice, O senseless among the people! O fools, when will you be wise? 9He who affixed the ear, can He not hear? He who formed the eye, can He not see? 10He who admonishes the nations, does He not discipline? He who teaches man, does He lack knowledge? 11The LORD knows the thoughts of man, that they are futile.a 12Blessed is the man You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law, 13to grant him relief from days of trouble, until a pit is dug for the wicked. 14For the LORD will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His heritage. 15Surely judgment will again be righteous, and all the upright in heart will follow it. 16Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will stand for me against the workers of iniquity? 17Unless the LORD had been my helper, I would soon have dwelt in the abode of silence. 18If I say, “My foot is slipping,” Your loving devotion, O LORD, supports me. 19When anxiety overwhelms me, Your consolation delights my soul. 20Can a corrupt throne be Your ally— one devising mischief by decree? 21They band together against the righteous and condemn the innocent to death.b 22But the LORD has been my stronghold, and my God is my rock of refuge. 23He will bring upon them their own iniquity and destroy them for their wickedness. The LORD our God will destroy them. Footnotes: 11 a Cited in 1 Corinthians 3:20 21 b Or condemn innocent blood 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 94 Summary The LORD Will Not Forget His People Verses 1–3 – A Cry for Vengeance The psalm opens with an urgent plea to the “God of vengeance” to shine forth, rise up, and repay the proud. The poet wrestles with the question “How long?” as arrogance seems unchecked. Verses 4–7 – Portrait of the Wicked Evildoers boast, crush God’s people, kill the vulnerable, and mock the Lord by claiming He does not see. Their words drip with contempt and their actions reveal hardened hearts. Verses 8–11 – Rebuke of the Senseless The psalmist calls scoffers “senseless” and “fools,” reminding them that the One who made the ear and eye unquestionably hears and sees. God’s knowledge exposes the futility of human schemes. Verses 12–15 – Blessed Discipline and Certain Justice Those whom the Lord teaches and corrects are blessed. Divine discipline provides relief in trouble, while a pit is prepared for the wicked. God will never forsake His own, and justice will stand firm. Verses 16–19 – Personal Testimony of Help The psalmist wonders who will take his side against evil but quickly answers: the LORD. When his foot slips, God’s love supports him; when anxiety surges, divine consolation delights his soul. Verses 20–23 – God the Final Judge Corrupt powers cannot partner with God. Though rulers condemn the innocent, the LORD is a stronghold. He turns the wickedness of the wicked back on themselves and destroys them. Psalm 94 is a plea for divine intervention in a world plagued by wickedness and injustice. The Psalmist passionately calls for God, as the ultimate judge, to bring justice and retribution against the wicked. Intermingling prayers and praises, the Psalmist finds comfort in God's justice, using this faith to sustain hope in times of adversity. Authorship and Setting Psalm 94 is traditionally grouped among the later “psalms of the community” that deal with injustice. The unnamed author speaks for the faithful remnant living under corrupt leadership—possibly during the final years of Judah before exile or under foreign domination afterward. The social turmoil, violent oppression, and bold mockery of God match both settings. Literary Flow 1. Invocation to the Judge (vv. 1–3) 2. Indictment of the wicked (vv. 4–7) 3. Wisdom address to fools (vv. 8–11) 4. Beatitude and promise (vv. 12–15) 5. Personal confession of trust (vv. 16–19) 6. Final contrast: corrupt throne vs. righteous Judge (vv. 20–23) The psalm moves from communal cry to personal confidence, anchoring hope in God’s character. Key Themes • Divine Vengeance and Justice – Deuteronomy 32:35 confirms, “Vengeance is Mine; I will repay.” – Revelation 6:10 records martyrs crying, “How long… until You judge?”—echoing Psalm 94’s lament. – Romans 12:19 urges believers to leave vengeance to God, mirroring the psalm’s trust. • God’s Awareness vs. Human Arrogance – “He who formed the eye, does He not see?” refutes those who doubt God’s oversight (compare Proverbs 15:3). – Isaiah 29:15 warns against those hiding deeds from the LORD. • Blessed Discipline – Psalm 94:12–13 parallels Hebrews 12:6: “The Lord disciplines the one He loves.” – Discipline is not punishment for destruction but training for relief and endurance. • The Secure Heritage – “He will never abandon His heritage” (v. 14) recalls 1 Samuel 12:22 and Romans 11:1–2, assuring God’s faithfulness to His people. Historical and Archaeological Insights • Social Injustice in Late Monarchic Judah Excavations at Samaria and Jerusalem show luxury goods—ivory, imported wine—owned by elites while commoners suffered. Prophets like Amos and Micah decried the same oppression described in Psalm 94:5–6. • Legal Systems in the Ancient Near East Tablets from Mesopotamia list laws protecting widows and orphans, yet violations were rampant. The psalm’s appeal to the “Judge of the earth” places God above flawed human courts. • Thronerooms and Royal Alliances Verse 20’s “corrupt throne” evokes Near Eastern kings who intertwined politics and idolatry. Reliefs from Assyrian palaces depict rulers handing down cruel decrees—visible context for the poet’s protest. Connections to the Torah • Protection of the Vulnerable: Exodus 22:22–24 commands care for widows, orphans, and foreigners—the very groups targeted in Psalm 94. • Covenant Justice: Leviticus 19:15 bans favoritism in court, directly opposing the “mischief by decree” (v. 20). Echoes in the Prophets • Isaiah 10:1–2 laments “decrees of iniquity” that rob the needy—language mirrored in Psalm 94. • Habakkuk 1 shares the lament “How long?” while waiting for God’s answer to violence. Fulfillment and Application in the New Testament • Jesus embodies the Judge promised in Psalm 94. John 5:22: “The Father judges no one, but has assigned all judgment to the Son.” • At the cross, apparent injustice is flipped into ultimate justice (Acts 2:23–24). • Believers are called to endure wrongful treatment, trusting God’s vindication (1 Peter 2:23). Practical Implications for Believers Today • Bring injustice to God first. Like the psalmist, start with prayer before protest. • Remember God’s vision is perfect. Doubts that He “does not see” crumble before His all-seeing eye. • Accept God’s training. Hard seasons may be discipline that leads to deeper relief. • Anchor identity in God’s heritage, not in shifting social or political thrones. • Anticipate final justice. While pursuing righteousness on earth, lean on the promise that the Judge of all the earth will set everything right. The LORD as Refuge Verses 22–23 are a strong closing affirmation: “But the LORD has been my stronghold, and my God is my rock of refuge. He will bring upon them their own iniquity…” The psalmist ends where every believer can rest—safe in the rock-solid refuge of God’s unchanging character. Summary Thought Psalm 94 teaches that when injustice rages and arrogant voices seem loudest, God is neither blind nor slow. He disciplines His own, defends the helpless, and guarantees that the wicked will not have the last word. Connections to Additional Scriptures Romans 12:19 Do not avenge yourselves, beloved, but leave room for God’s wrath. For it is written: 'Vengeance is Mine; I will repay, says the Lord.' Hebrews 12:6 For the Lord disciplines the one He loves, and He chastises every son He receives. Matthew 5:10 Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Teaching Points God as Judge Psalm 94:1-2 begins with a plea for God to act as the righteous judge: O LORD, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth. Rise up, O Judge of the earth; render a reward to the proud. This sets the tone for the psalm, emphasizing God's role as the ultimate arbiter of justice. The Arrogance of the Wicked Verses 3-7 describe the arrogance and oppression of the wicked: How long will the wicked, O LORD, how long will the wicked exult? They pour out arrogant words; all workers of iniquity boast. The psalmist highlights the apparent triumph of evil, which is a common concern for believers. God's Awareness and Response In verses 8-11, the psalmist reminds us that God is fully aware of the actions of the wicked: He who planted the ear, does He not hear? He who formed the eye, does He not see? This reassures us that God is not indifferent to injustice. The Blessing of Discipline Verses 12-15 speak of the blessing of God's discipline: Blessed is the man You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law. God's correction is a sign of His love and commitment to our growth and righteousness. God's Protection and Comfort The psalm concludes with a declaration of God's protection and comfort for the righteous: When anxiety was great within me, Your consolation brought joy to my soul (verse 19). This highlights the peace and assurance found in God's presence. Practical Applications Trust in God's Justice In times of injustice, remember that God is the ultimate judge and will bring about justice in His perfect timing. Seek God's Discipline Embrace God's discipline as a means of growth and refinement, understanding that it is a sign of His love. Find Comfort in God's Presence In moments of anxiety and distress, seek comfort in God's presence and His promises. Pray for the Oppressed Lift up those who are suffering under injustice, asking God to intervene and bring relief. People 1. The LORD (Yahweh) Referred to as the God of vengeance and the judge of the earth. The psalmist calls upon the LORD to rise up and render justice to the proud and wicked. The Hebrew root for LORD is "YHWH," which is the tetragrammaton representing God's covenant name. 2. The Wicked This group is described as arrogant and boastful, oppressing the people and committing injustices. They are the primary antagonists in the psalm, against whom the psalmist seeks divine intervention. 3. The Righteous Although not explicitly named, the righteous are implied as those who are oppressed by the wicked and who seek refuge in the LORD. They are the beneficiaries of God's justice and protection. 4. The Foolish Mentioned in verse 8, the foolish are those who lack understanding and fail to recognize God's sovereignty and justice. The Hebrew word used here is "kesil," often translated as fool or stupid. 5. The Proud This group is associated with the wicked and is characterized by their arrogance and defiance against God. They are the ones who need to be humbled by God's judgment. Places 1. The Earth The psalm begins with a call to the "God of vengeance" to shine forth, implying a setting that encompasses the whole earth where justice is needed. The Hebrew word for earth, "אֶרֶץ" (erets), often refers to the physical world or land. 2. The Courts of Justice Verses 2 and 15 refer to judgment and justice, suggesting a setting where legal and moral decisions are made. The Hebrew root "מִשְׁפָּט" (mishpat) is often associated with legal proceedings or the administration of justice. 3. The Assembly of the Wicked Verse 16 speaks of standing against evildoers, implying a gathering or assembly of those who commit injustice. The Hebrew word "רָשָׁע" (rasha) refers to the wicked or guilty, often in a collective sense. 4. The Dwelling of the Righteous Verses 12-13 mention the blessedness of those whom the Lord disciplines, suggesting a place or state of being where the righteous reside and find peace. The Hebrew word "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom) is often used to describe peace or completeness. 5. The Refuge of the Lord Verse 22 describes the Lord as a fortress and rock of refuge, indicating a spiritual place of safety and protection. The Hebrew word "מָעוֹז" (ma'oz) means stronghold or fortress. Events 1. Invocation for Divine Vengeance The psalmist begins by calling upon the "God of vengeance" to shine forth (Psalm 94:1). The Hebrew word for vengeance, "naqam," implies a just retribution or punishment, emphasizing God's role as a righteous judge. 2. Plea for Justice Against the Wicked The psalmist asks God to rise up and judge the earth, questioning how long the wicked will triumph (Psalm 94:2-3). The term "judge" (Hebrew: "shaphat") indicates a call for God to execute justice. 3. Description of the Wicked's Arrogance The wicked are described as boasting and speaking arrogantly, oppressing God's people (Psalm 94:4-5). The Hebrew root "amar" for "speak" suggests a continuous, defiant speech against God. 4. Oppression of the Vulnerable The psalmist highlights the wicked's oppression of the widow, the foreigner, and the fatherless, showing their disregard for God's commands (Psalm 94:6). This reflects the Hebrew concept of "ger" (foreigner) and "yatom" (fatherless), emphasizing their vulnerability. 5. False Security of the Wicked The wicked believe that God does not see or understand their actions (Psalm 94:7). The Hebrew word "biyn" for "understand" suggests a deeper insight that the wicked deny God possesses. 6. Affirmation of God's Omniscience The psalmist asserts that God, who created the ear and eye, surely hears and sees all (Psalm 94:9). This is a reminder of God's omniscience and omnipresence, rooted in the Hebrew understanding of God as the Creator. 7. God's Discipline and Instruction The psalmist acknowledges that God disciplines nations and teaches knowledge, emphasizing His role as a teacher (Psalm 94:10). The Hebrew "yasar" for "discipline" conveys correction and instruction. 8. Blessing of Divine Instruction Those whom God instructs and teaches from His law are blessed, as they find rest from adversity (Psalm 94:12-13). The Hebrew "torah" for "law" signifies divine teaching and guidance. 9. Assurance of God's Justice The psalmist expresses confidence that God will not forsake His people and will bring justice to the righteous (Psalm 94:14-15). The Hebrew "mishpat" for "justice" underscores God's commitment to righteousness. 10. Personal Testimony of God's Support The psalmist shares a personal testimony of God's support and consolation during times of anxiety and doubt (Psalm 94:17-19). The Hebrew "tanchumim" for "consolation" reflects God's comforting presence. 11. Denunciation of Corrupt Rulers The psalmist denounces rulers who frame injustice by statute, aligning themselves with wickedness (Psalm 94:20-21). The Hebrew "choq" for "statute" indicates laws that are unjustly applied. 12. Confidence in God's Protection The psalm concludes with a declaration of trust in God as a fortress and rock of refuge, who will repay the wicked for their iniquity (Psalm 94:22-23). The Hebrew "tsur" for "rock" symbolizes strength and stability. Lessons from Psalm 94 1. God is Our Defender In a world where injustice often seems to prevail, Psalm 94 reminds us that God is our ultimate defender. "The LORD is a God who avenges. O God who avenges, shine forth" (Psalm 94:1). This verse reassures us that we are not alone in our struggles. God sees every wrong and will act in His perfect timing. Trusting in His justice allows us to live with peace and confidence, knowing that He will right every wrong. 2. Patience in Persecution When faced with trials, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. Psalm 94 encourages us to be patient, as God is aware of our suffering. "How long will the wicked, O LORD, how long will the wicked exult?" (Psalm 94:3). This cry for justice is met with the assurance that God hears and will respond. Our patience is a testament to our faith, and it strengthens our character as we wait on the Lord. 3. God Sees All We often wonder if our struggles go unnoticed, but Psalm 94 assures us that nothing escapes God's sight. "He who formed the eye, does He not see?" (Psalm 94:9). This rhetorical question reminds us that God is fully aware of our circumstances. His omniscience is a comfort, knowing that He is intimately involved in our lives and will guide us through every challenge. 4. The Power of God's Discipline Discipline is not always pleasant, but it is necessary for growth. "Blessed is the man You discipline, O LORD, and teach from Your law" (Psalm 94:12). God's discipline is an expression of His love, shaping us into the people He created us to be. Embracing His correction leads to wisdom and a deeper relationship with Him. 5. Rest in God's Promises In times of trouble, we can find rest in God's promises. "When anxiety overwhelms me, Your consolation delights my soul" (Psalm 94:19). This verse highlights the peace that comes from trusting in God's word. His promises are a refuge, providing comfort and hope amidst life's uncertainties. 6. God is Our Stronghold Psalm 94 paints a vivid picture of God as our fortress. "But the LORD has been my stronghold, and my God is my rock of refuge" (Psalm 94:22). In Him, we find safety and strength. No matter the storms we face, we can stand firm, knowing that God is our unshakeable foundation. 7. The Folly of Wickedness The psalmist highlights the futility of wickedness, reminding us that evil will not prevail. "The LORD will not forsake His people; He will never abandon His heritage" (Psalm 94:14). This assurance encourages us to live righteously, knowing that God's justice will ultimately triumph over evil. 8. The Importance of Community Psalm 94 underscores the value of community in our spiritual journey. "Who will rise up for me against the wicked? Who will stand for me against the workers of iniquity?" (Psalm 94:16). We are called to support one another, standing together in faith and righteousness. Community strengthens us and reflects God's love to the world. 9. God's Unfailing Love Amidst trials, God's love remains constant. "Your loving devotion, O LORD, supported me" (Psalm 94:18). This verse is a beautiful reminder of God's unwavering love and support. His love is the anchor that holds us steady, providing comfort and assurance in every situation. 10. The Joy of Righteous Living Finally, Psalm 94 encourages us to find joy in living according to God's ways. "The LORD will not reject His people; He will never forsake His inheritance" (Psalm 94:14). Righteous living brings joy and fulfillment, as we align our lives with God's will and experience the blessings of His presence. Topics 1. Appeal for Divine Justice The psalmist begins with a plea for God, the "God of vengeance," to shine forth and bring justice. This appeal is rooted in the Hebrew concept of "naqam" (נָקַם), which implies a divine retribution against wrongdoing. The psalmist calls for God to rise up and judge the earth, emphasizing His role as the ultimate arbiter of justice. 2. Condemnation of the Wicked The psalmist describes the arrogance and oppression of the wicked, who boast and crush God's people. The Hebrew word "rasha" (רָשָׁע) is used to denote the wicked, highlighting their moral corruption and defiance against God. The psalmist questions how long the wicked will be allowed to triumph. 3. God's Awareness and Response The psalmist reassures that God is not indifferent to the plight of the righteous. He emphasizes that God, who created the ear and the eye, surely hears and sees the injustices. This reflects the Hebrew understanding of God as omniscient and omnipresent, fully aware of human actions. 4. The Folly of Ignoring God The psalmist warns against the folly of those who think God does not see or understand. The Hebrew term "ba'ar" (בָּעַר) is used to describe the senselessness of such thinking, indicating a lack of spiritual insight and understanding. 5. Blessing of Divine Discipline The psalmist acknowledges the blessing of being disciplined by God, as it leads to learning His law. The Hebrew word "yasar" (יָסַר) conveys the idea of correction and instruction, suggesting that divine discipline is a form of loving guidance. 6. Assurance of God's Protection The psalmist expresses confidence that God will not forsake His people or abandon His inheritance. This assurance is rooted in the covenant relationship between God and His people, emphasizing His faithfulness and commitment to justice. 7. God as a Refuge The psalmist concludes by affirming God as a refuge and fortress for the righteous. The Hebrew word "misgav" (מִשְׂגָּב) is used to describe God as a high place of safety, symbolizing His protection and strength in times of trouble. Themes 1. Divine Justice and Vengeance Psalm 94 opens with a call for God to act as the God of vengeance: "O LORD, God of vengeance, O God of vengeance, shine forth" (Psalm 94:1). The Hebrew word for vengeance, "naqam," implies a just retribution, highlighting God's role as the ultimate judge who will right the wrongs committed by the wicked. 2. The Arrogance of the Wicked The psalmist describes the arrogance and oppressive actions of the wicked: "They pour out arrogant words; all workers of iniquity boast" (Psalm 94:4). This theme underscores the pride and self-assuredness of those who act unjustly, believing they are beyond accountability. 3. The Suffering of the Righteous The psalmist laments the suffering inflicted upon the righteous: "They crush Your people, O LORD; they oppress Your heritage" (Psalm 94:5). This theme highlights the persecution and affliction faced by God's people at the hands of the wicked. 4. God's Awareness and Response Despite the wicked's belief that God does not see, the psalmist affirms God's awareness: "He who planted the ear, does He not hear? He who formed the eye, does He not see?" (Psalm 94:9). This theme emphasizes God's omniscience and His eventual response to injustice. 5. The Folly of Ignoring God The psalmist calls out the foolishness of those who ignore God's presence and power: "Understand, O dullest of the people! O fools, when will you be wise?" (Psalm 94:8). The Hebrew word for "fools," "kesil," suggests a moral deficiency, not just intellectual ignorance. 6. God as a Source of Comfort and Support The psalmist finds solace in God's support: "When anxiety overwhelms me, Your consolation delights my soul" (Psalm 94:19). This theme reflects the comfort and peace that believers find in God's presence, even amidst trials. 7. The Assurance of God's Justice The psalm concludes with confidence in God's ultimate justice: "But the LORD has been my stronghold, and my God is my rock of refuge" (Psalm 94:22). This theme reassures believers of God's steadfastness and His commitment to uphold justice in His time. Prayer Points Pray for Justice Ask God to bring justice to situations of oppression and wrongdoing in the world. Pray for Patience Seek patience and trust in God's timing and His plan for justice. Pray for Comfort Request God's comfort and peace for those who are anxious or suffering. Pray for Wisdom Ask for wisdom to understand and accept God's discipline in our lives. As we reflect on Psalm 94, may we be encouraged by the assurance of God's justice and the comfort of His presence, trusting that He is always at work for the good of those who love Him. Answering Tough Questions 1. If God is truly the “God of vengeance” (Psalm 94:1), why has so much evil throughout history gone seemingly unpunished? 2. Psalm 94:3–4 depicts the wicked flourishing and boasting; how does this align with other biblical claims that God swiftly judges evil? 3. In Psalm 94:9, it says God hears and sees all; why then do injustices appear to persist unchecked in our world? 4. Psalm 94:14 affirms God won’t abandon His people, yet Israel faced multiple exiles and defeats; isn’t this a historical contradiction? 5. How do we reconcile the just God presented in Psalm 94 with archaeological evidence suggesting long-standing oppression in ancient Israel? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the Psalmist’s call for divine vengeance align or conflict with your personal understanding of God’s character? 2. How does the Psalmist portray the behavior of the wicked in this Psalm? Can you identify similar behaviors in today’s society? 3. In verses 8-11, the Psalmist asserts that God sees and hears everything. How does this portrayal of God's omnipotence and omniscience comfort you in times of injustice? 4. According to verses 12-15, what benefits come from God's correction? How have you personally experienced these benefits in your life? 5. How does the Psalmist balance calling for divine vengeance and maintaining their own righteousness? 6. Verses 16-23 reveal God as a refuge and strength. How have you experienced God as your fortress in your own life? 7. What practical steps can you take to trust God more deeply in situations when wickedness appears to triumph? 8. In what ways can this Psalm's message be used to comfort those who are oppressed and seeking justice? 9. How does this Psalm challenge you to live differently in the face of injustice? 10. How can the hope found in Psalm 94 be applied to the issues facing our society today? 11. How does Psalm 94 shape your understanding of God’s judgement and righteousness? 12. Reflect on a time when you felt like the Psalmist, witnessing injustice and wickedness. How did you respond? 13. How does this Psalm encourage patience and perseverance in times of adversity? 14. In what ways does Psalm 94 emphasize the importance of faith amid social and moral chaos? 15. How can the message of Psalm 94 inspire us to advocate for justice in our communities? 16. How does Psalm 94 provide comfort in knowing that God will not forsake His people? 17. What do you learn about prayer from this Psalm? How does the Psalmist approach God in times of distress? 18. What role does the assurance of God's ultimate justice play in your faith journey? 19. The Psalmist declares the blessedness of those whom God corrects. How can we learn to embrace God’s correction in our lives? 20. How does the Psalmist's affirmation of God's protection inspire you to navigate your own trials and tribulations? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions