Psalm 75

1. What a contrast with Psalm 74. In Psalm 75, the writer admits that wrongs are done in society, but spends basically the entire 10 verses saying that God is ultimately in charge at all times.

2. In verse 1, praise given to God because of His presence is the theme. God continues to be near His people no matter what. Because of that, people speak of God and praise His Name.

3. Verses 3-5 are written from the perspective of what God would say in these circumstances. Verse 3 speaks of God stabilizing a difficult situation. 4 and 5 speak of God giving a stern warning to those who practice evil.

4. Verses 6 and 7 are difficult for me, but I believe they are speaking of God’s control. East, west and south (or desert) are mentioned, but not the north. God can do as He pleases as the One in charge. It could also be that “north” is poetic of the direction from which God comes to judge. The point of these verses is that God’s will is to be done, and will be done. As the theme of the psalm is retold, God is in charge.

5. A cup (verse 8) was a symbol of power, especially of majestic or royal power. God sits on His throne and makes the ultimate judgments.

6. While not unique to this psalm, it is rare that the praise near the end is not at the end. Asaph, seemingly no matter what else goes on, will praise God.

7. Then, he ends the psalm by giving a contrast that shows God’s control and justice. Those who are evil will be punished, while those who are righteous will be exalted.