In some versions of the Bible the heading over this psalm reads “for the director of music” or “for the choirmaster.” That signals that this is an important psalm to be used in the liturgy of the Temple. Such a short poem, and all about fighting…why would this psalm be so important?
If we dive down into the history, and into some underlying meanings, here’s what strikes me as to why this psalm is important: that even though people around are trying to destroy life, world order, the idea of good over evil, it doesn’t mean that we, as God’s people, lose hope and flee. Instead, here’s what God does: takes charge to right the wrong, bringing salvation into the picture.
“The LORD is righteous, he loves justice,” (New International Version) declares the end of the psalm. And here is the good news—even after seeing the story of despair and destruction described, there is hope! God is in the holy Temple, God is on the heavenly throne.
Holy God, let us see your glory, your vision, your love. You continually look after your people in ways we can’t even understand. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your story. Amen. —