Quick thoughts from Book 2 of Psalms

As a whole, I recognize the theme of Book 2 that is very much similar to Book 1. In Book 1, the laments that we see the evidence of the Psalm 1 blessed guy who yearns for God’s righteousness to be executed on Earth because of his steadfast love for his people. Their faith in God is deep, and it moves them to cry out to God, because they certainly know that God will deliver them – their faith never wavered.

Here in Book 2 the narrative takes a slight shift. The laments continue, in fact in begins with Psalm 42 where the Sons of Korah pants for flowing streams like a deer, speaking allegorically about their souls longing so much for God in the midst of their suffering – (v3) “tears have been their food day and night”. They long for God to deliver them from their sufferings. Psalm 45 is crucial therefore in this whole book because it is great news to those who are suffering. Here, it lies the eschatological hope that they have been searching for. There is a King, not just any other ruler but one that will rule righteously for eternity, and justice will be restored.

As a result, as this King rules, there is a CALL for submission and obedience to him. (Psalm 45:10 ff). As per Psalm 46, God will be their only refuge and are to only trust and “be still” (Psalm 46:10-11) because He is the King (Psalm 47).

• With him ruling, there will only be TWO IMPLICATIONS. To obey or to die because those who (Psalm 49:6-7) trust in their wealth, death will be their shepherd (Psalm 49:14) – there are only two ways to live – no middle ground.
• A worshiper treats sin in a god-centered fashion. Psalm 51 is indeed clear. See after King David sinning, his immediate thought is only God himself. Psalm 51:1 “Have mercy on me, God” and he recognizes only against God that he has sinned.
• A worshiper will be one that yearns for God to rule. Psalm 58 highlights this well. Psalm 58:6-11. David actually longs for God to DESTROY THE ENEMIES. It is mentioned very explicit here – that the righteous ones will “bathe his feet in the blood of the wicked”. Evidently, his heart is indeed for god’s kingdom and righteousness. He exemplifies what fear of God actually means.
•  A worshiper unwavering trust in God for deliverance despite how horrible the situation may be – Psalm 71. Their tongues will continue to praise God for eternity.