Chronicles of a Journeyman

Psalm 74

1-11: Lament to God (about His people’s woes)

12-17: Praise to God (for His awesome deeds)

18-23: Appeals to God (for His people’s deliverance)

Asaph recounts in detail how God’s people, their land of inheritance, and the temple of God’s presence, were devastated by the enemy, while wondering why God watched silently as His anger persists.

He proceeds to sing God’s praise, recalling God’s mighty deeds in Israel’s history by which He brought them out of slavery into the Promised Land. He also affirms God’s supreme power and control over creation.

He then appeals to God’s covenant mercies, pointing to the vile and foolish character of those who torment His people and taunt Him. It is a heartfelt plea for divine intervention on the basis of the covenant.

This psalm, though full of questions and heartfelt prayers, is born of trust in God’s supreme power and faithful character.