Psalm 74

“How long, O God, will the adversary revile, and the enemy spurn Your name forever?” (Psalm 74:10, NASB)

Asaph probably wrote this psalm after the destruction of Solomon’s temple by the Babylonians. He describes everything he sees. The city is ruined. The enemy shouts while they chop the paneling of the sanctuary with their axes. They burn the temple to the ground and destroy every place of worship. All the prophets have vanished from the land. The enemy boasts that their god defeated the God of the Jews. How long would they witness such misery?

There are times when everything around us seems to be a disaster, and we don’t know what to do. The Bible calls this “the evil day”. In the case of Jerusalem’s destruction, God said that He would do this because of their idolatry and disobedience. No doubt this was painful for Asaph to watch, but God was still in control. While it seemed that the enemy had the upper hand, the truth was that God was working out everything according to His plan. In storms of darkness, we must patiently wait for the beautiful day.

Nevertheless, it was still appropriate for Asaph to cry out to the LORD that He would remember His covenant promises and would arise and defend His cause.

Are you going through a difficult time? Does it seem like evil is abounding and the enemy has the upper hand? Does it appear that wicked people are getting away with it? Then hope in God and plead that He will defend His righteous cause. The Lord saves us to the uttermost by the way of His promises. The storm will pass, and the LORD will be exalted. Even in the worst of times, the earth is still filled with His glory. Do not fear, for in the day of judgment, God preserves His faithful remnant. Look up, for your redemption is near!