Psalm 83

1. This psalm contains some unique characteristics. The one that stands out the most is that so many different nations are mentioned. This is very much an historical psalm, but commentators are not sure which event(s) caused this poem to be written. Many point to Second Chronicles 20 as the setting, but some go so far as to say this is a general psalm and that the recording of nations is just symbolic. Whatever the circumstances, the words contain a great national lament of God’s people.

2. The psalm opens (verse 1) with a call for God to “not remain silent.” While there will be words of lament, the psalmist also wishes for God’s intervention because of the circumstances that surround him.

3. Enemies of God and His people are becoming increasing bold, exalting self and making further plans. Those plans include the horrific plan to completely wipe out the nation of Israel (verses 2-4). While we do not think of this happening to God’s people today, if Muslims continue to gain influence, their holy book, The Qu’ran, calls for them to do the same.

4. Verse 5 shows us how serious this threat has become. It tells us that it is not just one nation wanting God’s people destroyed. Instead, many nations are working as one to defeat God’s people. Verses 6-8 list those nations that are working together.

5. On the other side, though, Asaph, in verses 9-12, lists just some of the “great” leaders that God has overthrown for His people in the past. If God was able to do that, He will surely be able to lead His people against these great enemies.

6. After that specific list, Asaph turns to more poetic language in verses 13-17, asking God to destroy these peoples. The language is obviously implying that the poet wants these nations completely overwhelmed, so that Israel will once again be seen as strong.

7. But there is another reason for this request. The final verse (18) tells us that Asaph wants God to win this battle so that these pagan nations will know Who He is, and that He rules over all things. While we don’t fight military battles for Christianity in our time, we should continue to pray that “right” will spread so that people will know God.