02.074. Psalm 74

Psalms 74:1-23 Maschil of Asaph. This psalm relates to the destruction of the city and temple of Jerusalem by the Chaldeans, or to some similar disaster. In it we have, (1.) The church’s bitter complaints of God’s displeasure; of the outrage of her enemies; and of the apparent hopelessness of her case, Psalms 74:1-11. (2.) Strong and heart-encouraging pleadings with God, upon the account of his relation to his people, and of the great things he had done for them, and that he was at once their God and the God of nature; that therefore he would remember to execute just vengeance upon his sworn enemies, and grant help and relief to his covenant people, Psalms 74:12-23.

While I sing this, let me admire the sovereignty and holiness of God, in so severely correcting his own people. And let the broken, the deserted condition of the church, in this land, deeply affect my heart, and excite my earnest prayers for her restoration.