Meaning of Psalms 85:9

This verse from Psalm 85 expresses a profound hope and anticipation for God's presence and deliverance within the community of faith, specifically those who revere Him. The psalmist, likely reflecting a period of national distress or exile, proclaims that God's salvation is not distant but readily accessible to the faithful. This nearness is intrinsically linked to the dwelling of God's glory in their land, signifying a restoration of His presence, favor, and blessing. The fear of God here is not a cowering terror, but a reverential awe and obedience that acknowledges His sovereignty and holiness. The ultimate desire is for the tangible manifestation of God's presence to permeate their lives and their physical environment, bringing with it peace, justice, and prosperity.

Context and Background

Psalm 85 is generally understood as a psalm of thanksgiving and petition, often associated with the period following the Babylonian exile. The people of Israel had experienced God's judgment and separation due to their sin, leading to a desolate land and a perceived absence of God's favor. This psalm reflects a yearning for restoration, for God to "turn back our captivity" (Psalm 85:4) and to "show us your steadfast love, O LORD, and to grant us your salvation" (Psalm 85:7). Verse 9, therefore, stands as a confident affirmation of faith that God's restorative action is imminent for those who maintain a right relationship with Him.

Key Themes and Messages

• Imminent Salvation: The word "surely" (Hebrew: 'ak), often translated as "surely" or "indeed," conveys strong assurance. God's salvation is not a theoretical possibility but a present and approaching reality for the faithful.
• Reverential Fear of God: The condition for experiencing this salvation is "those who fear him." This refers to a deep respect, awe, and obedience to God's commands, recognizing His divine authority and holiness. It's an internal disposition that leads to outward actions of devotion.
• Indwelling Glory: The ultimate outcome of God's salvation is that "his glory may dwell in our land." This signifies God's manifest presence, His favor, His power, and His righteous reign being re-established among His people. It implies a restored relationship where God is not merely distant but actively present and reigning.
• Land as a Symbol: The "land" represents not just the physical territory but the entirety of the people's life, their community, and their national existence. The dwelling of God's glory there means His blessings and rule would permeate every aspect of their lives.

Spiritual Significance and Application

For believers today, Psalm 85:9 speaks of the ongoing work of God's salvation through Jesus Christ. His presence is now accessible to all who believe, not through geographical proximity but through the indwelling Holy Spirit. The "fear of him" translates to a Christ-centered reverence and a commitment to living according to His teachings. The "glory" of God dwelling in our land can be understood as the transformation of individual lives and the collective body of Christ, the Church, into a place where God's presence is evident through love, righteousness, and spiritual fruit. It calls for a life lived in conscious awareness of God's nearness and a desire for His will to be done in and through us.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This verse is a crucial link in the unfolding narrative of God's redemptive plan. It echoes the promises made to Abraham concerning blessing and dwelling in the land, and foreshadows the ultimate dwelling of God's glory among His people in the New Jerusalem described in Revelation. The theme of God's presence being tied to the obedience and faithfulness of His people is a consistent thread throughout the Old Testament, from the Tabernacle and Temple to the prophetic pronouncements of restoration. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is the embodiment of God's presence, and through Him, His glory dwells within believers and the Church.

Analogies

• A King Returning to His City: Imagine a beloved king who was unjustly exiled from his capital city. The people, loyal to him, long for his return. When he finally comes back, his presence restores order, prosperity, and joy to the entire realm. Similarly, God's salvation is His return to dwell with His people, bringing His blessings.
• A Light Restored to a Darkened Room: When a light is turned on in a dark room, the darkness is dispelled, and the room is illuminated, revealing its contents and making it functional and welcoming. God's glory is like that light, dispelling the darkness of sin and despair and making life vibrant and purposeful.
• A Gardener Tending His Beloved Garden: A gardener meticulously cares for his prized garden, ensuring it flourishes. When God's glory dwells in our land, it signifies His active care and cultivation of His people, leading to spiritual growth and fruitfulness.

Relation to Other Verses

• Exodus 29:45: "I will dwell among the people of Israel and will be their God." This foundational promise establishes the covenant relationship and God's desire to be present with His chosen people.
• Isaiah 60:19: "The sun shall be no more your light by day, nor for the brightness of the night, but the LORD your God shall be your everlasting light, and your God will be your glory." This prophetic vision points to a future where God Himself is the ultimate source of light and glory.
• John 1:14: "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen his glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth." This New Testament declaration confirms that Jesus Christ is the ultimate manifestation of God's glory dwelling among humanity.
• 1 Corinthians 3:16: "Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?" This verse applies the concept of God's dwelling to individual believers and the collective Church, highlighting the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit.