Psalm 79:8

Do not hold past sins against us; let Your compassion come quickly, for we are brought low.

Study Bible

Do not hold past sins against us;
This plea reflects a deep awareness of sin and a desire for divine forgiveness. In the Old Testament, the concept of sin often involved both personal and communal responsibility. The Israelites understood that their current suffering was often a result of past disobedience to God's covenant (Leviticus 26:40-42). This phrase echoes the sentiment found in Psalm 51:1-2, where David seeks God's mercy and cleansing from sin. Theologically, it underscores the need for repentance and the hope for God's grace, which is fully realized in the New Testament through Jesus Christ, who offers forgiveness of sins (Ephesians 1:7).

let Your compassion come quickly,
The request for God's compassion highlights His character as merciful and loving. In the Hebrew context, compassion is often linked to the idea of a mother's love for her child, suggesting a deep, nurturing care (Isaiah 49:15). The urgency in "come quickly" indicates the dire situation of the psalmist, possibly during the Babylonian exile when Jerusalem was in ruins (2 Kings 25:8-12). This plea is a reminder of God's readiness to respond to His people's cries, as seen in Exodus 34:6, where God is described as "compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness."

for we are brought low.
This phrase captures the humility and desperation of the people. Being "brought low" can refer to both physical and spiritual states of distress. Historically, this could relate to the destruction of Jerusalem and the subsequent exile, a time when the Israelites experienced profound humiliation and loss (Lamentations 1:1-3). Spiritually, it reflects the brokenness that comes from recognizing one's sinfulness and need for God, akin to the Beatitudes' teaching on the poor in spirit (Matthew 5:3). This condition sets the stage for divine intervention, as God often lifts the humble and contrite (Isaiah 57:15).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Asaph
Traditionally attributed as the author of Psalm 79, Asaph was a Levite and one of the leaders of David's choir. He is known for his role in temple worship and his contributions to the Psalms.

2. Israel
The nation of Israel is the primary subject of this Psalm, experiencing devastation and seeking God's mercy and restoration.

3. Babylonian Exile
While not explicitly mentioned in this verse, the context of Psalm 79 is often associated with the destruction of Jerusalem and the Babylonian exile, a time of great suffering and reflection for the Israelites.

Teaching Points

Understanding God's Compassion
God's compassion is a central theme in Scripture, and believers are encouraged to seek it earnestly, especially in times of distress.

The Weight of Past Iniquities
Acknowledge the impact of past sins but trust in God's ability to forgive and restore. This requires genuine repentance and a heart open to transformation.

The Role of Humility in Prayer
Recognize our lowliness and dependence on God, which is essential for sincere prayer and receiving His grace.

Community Lament and Intercession
Engage in communal prayer and intercession, understanding that the struggles of one affect the whole body of Christ.

Hope in Divine Restoration
Despite current circumstances, maintain hope in God's promise to restore and renew, as He has done throughout biblical history.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the plea for God not to hold past iniquities against us reflect the nature of God's forgiveness as seen in other parts of the Bible?

2. In what ways can we, as a community of believers, practice communal lament and intercession in our current context?

3. How does understanding the historical context of the Babylonian exile enhance our interpretation of Psalm 79:8?

4. What practical steps can we take to cultivate humility in our personal and communal prayer life?

5. How can we apply the hope of divine restoration in our lives today, especially when facing personal or communal challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 34:6-7
This passage describes God's nature as compassionate and forgiving, yet just. It provides a foundation for understanding the plea for God's compassion in Psalm 79:8.

Lamentations 5:1-22
Similar themes of lament and a plea for God's mercy are found here, reflecting the communal cry for restoration after suffering.

Nehemiah 9:17
Highlights God's readiness to forgive and His abundant mercy, reinforcing the hope expressed in Psalm 79:8.