Psalm 85
Humans love to play the “blame game.” Never mind fixing the problem—if “we” can establish who is at fault, the actual problem becomes insignificant. Placing assurance in the false confidence that establishing fault solves dilemmas deceives us. Righteousness involves much more than declaring blame!
The psalmist(s) began by declaring this was not an indictment of the Lord. He was the acknowledged source of abundant blessings, restoration of the nation, and incredible forgiveness. In blessing Israel, He had held back His furious anger.
The psalmist’s plea: do this again. Israel needed divine revival, not divine anger. Only divine love would redirect the Israelites.
The psalmist listened carefully to God. “Peace with God was for the faithful who refused to return to foolish human actions. Salvation was for humans holding God in profound respect.”
Enduring love and truth met when righteousness (a divine response) kissed peace (a human response). That was when truth rose from earth to meet heaven’s righteousness.
The problem was not with the Lord. His abundant blessings were there. He announced His willingness to bless.
Often our problems are not caused by divine anger (which is always appropriate), but by human arrogant independence (which is always foolish). Rarely do humans realize how destructive their “innocent” attitudes (and resulting behaviors) are.
Human ungodly attitudes result in human ungodly acts. When people endure the consequences of selfish behavior, somehow God “caused” the problem. No matter what happens, it is God’s fault. God is due the blame—regardless of people’s values.
The key to improving human interaction is found in God’s principles and emphasis. What improves your human interactions?
Link to other Writings of David Chadwell