Psalm 80:1-19 Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, you that lead Joseph like a flock; you that dwell between the cherubim, shine forth.… It is not a bringing back out of exile that is here prayed for, for the people are still on the soil of their own country; but in their present Feebleness they are no longer like themselves, but stand in need of Divine intervention, the shining forth of the hidden countenance of God, in order again to attain a condition that is in harmony with the promises. Suggests - I. GOD HAS MADE A GLORIOUS REDEMPTION POSSIBLE FOR US. (Ver. 8.) Has transplanted us from the darkness and slavery of Egypt into a glorious land of promise. II. BY THE ABUSE OF OUR PRIVILEGE WE MAY BRING OURSELVES INTO GREAT FEEBLENESS AND MISERY. 1. God may seem not to answer our prayers. (Ver. 4.) 2. And to leave us to unavailing remorse. (Ver. 5.) 3. Appetite and passion may destroy us by their ravages. (Ver. 13.) III. GOD IS STILL NEAR TO HELP ALL WHO EARNESTLY DESIRE RESTORATION. 1. He goes before us as he went before the Israelites in the wilderness. (Ver. 1.) As a Shepherd. 2. He has also the power to help us. Dwells between the cherubim, the symbol of his earthly power; and is Lord of hosts - symbol of his heavenly power. 3. When we can see our duty and privilege in the light of God's face, we shall repent and return. (Ver. 3.) That is, we must see them in the very strongest light before we shall repent. - S. Parallel Verses KJV: {To the chief Musician upon ShoshannimEduth, A Psalm of Asaph.} Give ear, O Shepherd of Israel, thou that leadest Joseph like a flock; thou that dwellest between the cherubims, shine forth. |
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