AI::ON Psalm 80

In chapter 80 of Psalms, we see a lot of instructions being given to the people. We also see a lot of examples of people not following those instructions. This is normal human behavior. We all know what we should do, but we often don’t do it.

The first instruction that is given in this chapter is for the people to listen. “Hear us, O Shepherd of Israel” (80:1). This is so important. If we are going to be able to follow the instructions that are given to us, we need to be able to listen. Often times, we think that we are listening, but we are really just waiting for our turn to talk. true listening involves hearing what the other person is saying and trying to understand their point of view.

The second instruction that is given in this chapter is for the people to return. “Return, O God of hosts” (80:19). This is a difficult instruction for us to follow because it requires us to admit that we have strayed from the path that God has set before us. It is much easier for us to stay on the path than it is to turn around and go back the way we came. But when we return to God, He will forgive us and He will restore us.

The third instruction that is given in this chapter is for the people to trust. “Restore our fortunes, O Lord” (80:3). This instruction goes hand-in-hand with the instruction to return. When we trust God, it will be easier for us to follow His instructions, even when they are difficult. When we trust God, He will bless us and He will make our paths straight.

In chapter 80 of Psalms, we see a lot of instructions being given to the people. These instructions are not easy to follow, but they are important nonetheless. If we want to be blessed by God, we need to listen to Him, return to Him when we have strayed from His path, and trust Him with our lives.