PSALM 85

To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of the sons of Korah.

The psalmisst, from the experience of former mercies, prays for the continuance thereof Psalm 85.1-13

Lord, You have [at last] been favorable and have dealt graciosly with Your land [of Canaan]; You have brought back [from Babylon] the captives of Jacob.

2 You have forgiven and taken away the inquuity of Your people, Yo uhave covered all their sin.

Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

3 You have withdrawn all Your wrath and indignation, You have turned away from the plazing anger [which You had let loose].

 

PSALM 86

A Prayer of David.

David strengthens his prayer by God's power a goodness Psalm 86.1-10

Incline Your ear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and distressed, needy and desiring.

2 Preserve my life, for I am godly and dedicated; O my God, save Yor servant, for I trust in You [leaning and believing on You, committing all and confidently looking to You, without fear or doubt].

He desires the continance of His grace Psalm 86.11-17

11 Teach me Yor way, O Lord, that I may walk and live in Youur truth; direct and uunite my heart [solely, reverently] to fear and honor Your name. [Ps 5.11; 69.36]

12 I will confess and praise You, O Lord my God, with my whole (united) heart; and I will glorify Your name forevermore.

 

PSALM 87

A Psalm of the sons of Korah. A song.

Citizenship in Zion Psalm 87.1-7

On the holy hills stands the city [of Jerusalem and the temple] God founded.

2 The Lord loves the gates of Zion [through which the crowds of pilgrims enter from all nations] more than all the dwellings of Jacob (Israel).

3 Glorious things are spoken of you, O city of God.

Selah [pause, and calmly think of that]!

4 I will make mention of Rahab [the poetic name for Egypt] and Babylon as among those who know [the city of God] - behold, Philistia and Tyre, with Ethiopia (Cush) - [saying], "This man was born there."

5 Yes, of Zion it shall be said, "This man and that man were born in her"; for the Most High Himself will establish her.

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