Overview:
"A Prayer for Further Restoration" is a heartfelt plea found in the book of Psalms, specifically Psalm 85. This psalm is attributed to the sons of Korah and is a communal prayer that seeks God's continued favor and restoration for the people of Israel. It reflects a deep yearning for revival and renewal, both spiritually and materially, following a period of hardship or divine displeasure.

Biblical Context:
Psalm 85 is situated within the third book of the Psalms (Psalms 73-89), a section often characterized by themes of lament, divine justice, and hope for redemption. The historical context of this psalm is not explicitly stated, but it is often associated with the post-exilic period when the Israelites returned from Babylonian captivity and sought to rebuild their nation and relationship with God.

Structure and Themes:
The psalm can be divided into three main sections:

1. Remembrance of Past Mercies (Verses 1-3):
The psalm begins with a recollection of God's past acts of favor and forgiveness. The psalmist acknowledges God's restoration of Jacob, the forgiveness of iniquity, and the withdrawal of divine wrath. This remembrance serves as a foundation for the current plea for restoration.

“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. Selah You withheld all Your fury; You turned from Your burning anger.” (Psalm 85:1-3)

2. Petition for Present Restoration (Verses 4-7):
The central portion of the psalm is a direct appeal to God for renewed mercy and salvation. The psalmist implores God to turn away His anger and revive His people, expressing confidence in God's steadfast love and salvation.

“Restore us, O God of our salvation, and put away Your displeasure toward us. Will You be angry with us forever? Will You draw out Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, that Your people may rejoice in You? Show us Your loving devotion, O LORD, and grant us Your salvation.” (Psalm 85:4-7)

3. Anticipation of Future Blessings (Verses 8-13):
The final section expresses hope and assurance in God's promises. The psalmist listens for God's voice, anticipating peace and righteousness. The imagery of truth springing from the earth and righteousness looking down from heaven conveys a vision of harmonious divine-human interaction and abundant blessings.

“I 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. Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, that His glory may dwell in our land. Loving devotion and truth have joined together; righteousness and peace have kissed. Truth sprouts from the earth, and righteousness looks down from heaven. The LORD will indeed provide what is good, and our land will yield its increase. Righteousness will go before Him to prepare the way for His steps.” (Psalm 85:8-13)

Theological Significance:
"A Prayer for Further Restoration" underscores the dynamic relationship between God and His people, characterized by divine mercy, human repentance, and hopeful anticipation of God's continued blessings. It highlights the importance of remembering past acts of divine grace as a basis for present and future petitions. The psalm also emphasizes the interconnectedness of spiritual renewal and material prosperity, suggesting that true restoration involves both the heart and the land.

Liturgical and Devotional Use:
This psalm is often used in liturgical settings and personal devotions as a prayer for renewal and revival. It resonates with communities and individuals seeking divine intervention in times of distress, encouraging believers to trust in God's faithfulness and to seek His peace and righteousness.