Psalm 60:1

You have rejected us, O God; You have broken us; You have been angry; restore us!

Study Bible

For the choirmaster.
This phrase indicates that the psalm was intended for public worship and was to be directed by the choirmaster. It suggests an organized form of worship in ancient Israel, where music played a significant role in temple services.

To the tune of “The Lily of the Covenant.”
This likely refers to a well-known melody or musical setting of the time. The use of specific tunes for psalms indicates a rich tradition of music in Hebrew worship, where certain melodies were associated with particular themes or occasions.

A Miktam of David for instruction.
The term "Miktam" is often interpreted as a type of psalm or musical term, possibly indicating a golden or precious song. The phrase "for instruction" suggests that this psalm was meant to teach or impart wisdom, reflecting the didactic nature of many of David's writings.

When he fought Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah, and Joab returned and struck down 12,000 Edomites in the Valley of Salt.
This historical context places the psalm during a time of military conflict. Aram-naharaim and Aram-zobah were regions in Mesopotamia and Syria, respectively. The Valley of Salt is likely located near the Dead Sea. This setting underscores the geopolitical struggles of Israel and highlights the leadership of David and his commander Joab. The victory over the Edomites is also recorded in 2 Samuel 8:13 and 1 Chronicles 18:12, emphasizing God's deliverance in battle.

You have rejected us, O God;
This expression of divine rejection reflects a period of distress or defeat for Israel. It acknowledges God's sovereignty and the belief that national calamities were often seen as a result of divine displeasure.

You have broken us;
The imagery of being broken suggests a state of vulnerability and defeat. It conveys the deep sense of loss and the need for divine intervention and healing.

You have been angry;
This phrase acknowledges God's righteous anger, which in the Old Testament is often associated with Israel's disobedience or idolatry. It reflects the covenant relationship where God's anger is a response to the people's failure to uphold their part of the covenant.

restore us!
The plea for restoration is a common theme in the psalms, reflecting a desire for reconciliation and renewal. It underscores the hope and faith in God's mercy and the belief that He can restore what has been broken. This plea is echoed in other scriptures, such as Psalm 80:3 and Lamentations 5:21, where the call for restoration is linked to repentance and divine grace.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The author of the psalm, traditionally believed to be King David, who often wrote psalms during times of distress and national crisis.

2. Israel
The nation of Israel is the primary subject of the psalm, experiencing a period of divine rejection and seeking restoration.

3. God
The central figure to whom the psalm is addressed, highlighting His sovereignty and the need for His favor and restoration.

4. Military Defeat
The context of the psalm suggests a backdrop of military defeat or national calamity, prompting a plea for divine intervention.

5. Restoration
The desired outcome of the psalm, where the people seek to be restored to God's favor and protection.

Teaching Points

Understanding Divine Discipline
Recognize that God's rejection or discipline is often a response to sin or disobedience. It is crucial to examine our lives and repent where necessary.

The Importance of Repentance
True restoration begins with acknowledging our failures and turning back to God with a contrite heart.

God’s Sovereignty in Trials
Even in times of distress, God remains sovereign. Trust in His ultimate plan and purpose, even when circumstances seem dire.

The Power of Prayer for Restoration
Like David, we should boldly approach God in prayer, seeking His mercy and restoration in our lives and communities.

Hope in God’s Unfailing Love
Despite moments of divine anger, God’s love and desire to restore His people remain steadfast. Hold onto hope in His promises.

Bible Study Questions

1. What might have caused God to reject and break Israel, and how can we apply this understanding to our personal lives today?

2. How does the theme of divine discipline in Psalm 60:1 relate to the broader account of Israel’s history in the Old Testament?

3. In what ways can we seek restoration in our relationship with God when we feel distant or rejected?

4. How does the plea for restoration in Psalm 60:1 connect with the New Testament teachings on repentance and forgiveness?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced a "breaking" in your life. How did you seek God’s restoration, and what was the outcome?

Connections to Other Scriptures

2 Samuel 8
Provides historical context for the military campaigns of David, which may relate to the backdrop of Psalm 60.

Psalm 44
Another psalm that reflects on divine rejection and the plea for God’s intervention, showing a similar theme of seeking restoration.

Isaiah 54:7-8
Speaks of God’s momentary anger and the promise of everlasting kindness, paralleling the plea for restoration in Psalm 60.

Lamentations 5:21
A call for restoration to God, echoing the themes of repentance and renewal found in Psalm 60.