Psalms 85:6 – “Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In Psalm 85:6, the psalmist is pleading with God to revive His people once more. The word “revive” here means to bring back to life, to renew, or to refresh. It’s not just about physical restoration but a deep spiritual renewal. The psalmist is yearning for God to restore the joy that comes from a close relationship with Him. The verse reflects a deep longing for God’s presence and favor, knowing that true joy can only be found in Him. The plea is both hopeful and confident, trusting that God has the power to bring new life where there has been spiritual dryness or decline.
Historical Context
Psalm 85 is traditionally thought to have been written after the Israelites returned from Babylonian exile. The people had been brought back to their land, but they were still struggling with the consequences of their past sins. Their physical return did not automatically translate into spiritual renewal. This verse is a heartfelt prayer for God to revive them, not just in their circumstances but in their hearts. The community is asking God to breathe new life into them so that they can once again experience the joy of walking closely with Him.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 85:6 speaks to the need for spiritual revival. It shows that God is not only concerned with outward actions but deeply desires a restored relationship with His people. The verse reveals that true joy comes from God alone. The psalmist’s request for revival highlights that human effort alone cannot bring about spiritual renewal; it must come from God. This verse teaches us that God’s desire is for His people to rejoice in Him, and He is willing to bring renewal when we sincerely seek Him.
Literary Analysis
Psalm 85:6 uses a rhetorical question to emphasize the psalmist’s deep longing for God’s intervention. The use of the word “revive” suggests bringing something back to life that was once vibrant but has since diminished. The structure of the verse highlights the connection between revival and joy. The psalmist understands that true rejoicing among God’s people cannot happen without a spiritual awakening. The tone of the verse is both urgent and hopeful, demonstrating a reliance on God’s past faithfulness as the basis for the current plea.
Biblical Cross-References
Several other scriptures echo the themes found in Psalm 85:6:
- Habakkuk 3:2 – “Lord, I have heard of your fame; I stand in awe of your deeds. Repeat them in our day, in our time make them known.”
- Isaiah 57:15 – “I live in a high and holy place, but also with the one who is contrite and lowly in spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly and to revive the heart of the contrite.”
- Psalm 51:12 – “Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.”
These passages show that God is always ready to bring new life to those who humble themselves before Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s believers, Psalm 85:6 is a powerful reminder of our need for God’s ongoing work of renewal in our lives. It’s easy to become spiritually complacent, especially when life’s challenges weigh us down. This verse encourages us to seek God for a fresh outpouring of His Spirit, so that we can experience the joy and passion that come from a revived heart. It teaches us that God is not distant but is willing and eager to renew our spirits if we turn to Him with sincerity.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse highlights God’s love and desire for His people to experience joy in their relationship with Him. The request for revival is based on the understanding that God is not only capable of bringing new life but desires to do so for His people. The fact that God responds to such prayers shows that He delights in seeing His children thrive spiritually. It’s a testament to His patience, compassion, and willingness to refresh us, even when we have grown weary or have strayed.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate source of spiritual revival. Through His death and resurrection, He made it possible for us to be made new and to live in a restored relationship with God. As Jesus Himself said in John 10:10, “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.” When we ask God to revive us, we are ultimately asking for a deeper experience of the life that Jesus offers. In John 7:37-38, Jesus also promises that those who come to Him will have “rivers of living water” flowing from within them, symbolizing the spiritual revival that only He can bring.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What areas of your life do you feel need God’s revival today?
- How can seeking God for spiritual renewal lead to deeper joy in your walk with Him?
- What steps can you take to open your heart to God’s revival in your life?
- How does remembering God’s past acts of faithfulness inspire you to pray for revival now?
- How can the promise of spiritual revival through Jesus change the way you live each day?
Psalm 85:6 reminds us that God is always ready to revive us and fill us with joy. When we feel spiritually dry or distant, we can turn to Him, trusting that He will breathe new life into our hearts.