Psalms 90:7 – “We are consumed by your anger and terrified by your indignation.”
Psalm 90:7 confronts us with a sobering reality: God’s righteous anger against human sin. It highlights the seriousness of sin and its consequences, reminding us of the importance of living in a way that honors God.
Extended Explanation of the Verse
This verse reflects on the reality that God’s anger is a response to human disobedience and sin. The word “consumed” emphasizes the overwhelming nature of God’s righteous anger; it is not something that can be easily ignored or brushed aside. The phrase “terrified by your indignation” shows that this anger is not just a passing irritation, but a deep, justified response to the brokenness and rebellion of humanity. God’s holiness cannot tolerate sin, and His anger is a direct reaction to it. This verse invites us to take seriously the reality of sin and its impact on our relationship with God.
Historical Context
Psalm 90 is traditionally attributed to Moses, likely written during the Israelites’ years of wandering in the wilderness. This was a time when the people of Israel often experienced God’s anger due to their repeated disobedience and lack of faith. For example, when the Israelites worshiped the golden calf (Exodus 32) or grumbled against God’s provision, they faced severe consequences. Moses, who led the people through these difficult times, would have had firsthand experience of God’s righteous anger. This verse reflects Moses’ understanding that their suffering was often a result of turning away from God’s commands.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Psalm 90:7 reminds us that God’s anger is not arbitrary but rooted in His holiness and justice. God is perfectly righteous, and because of His holiness, He cannot ignore sin. While it may be uncomfortable to think of God as angry, it is essential to understand that His anger is always just. It is never reckless or unmeasured; instead, it reflects His commitment to righteousness. This verse also serves as a warning to us that sin has real consequences. It challenges us to examine our lives and recognize the need for repentance.
Literary Analysis
The language used in this verse is intense and dramatic, which reflects the seriousness of God’s response to sin. Words like “consumed” and “terrified” are not mild terms; they express the depth of God’s displeasure. The verse uses parallelism, a common feature in Hebrew poetry, to emphasize the impact of God’s anger. The repetition of these ideas underscores the point that ignoring God’s commands leads to severe consequences. The tone is one of urgency, reminding us that turning away from God’s ways leads to spiritual and even physical consequences.
Biblical Cross-References
- Deuteronomy 32:22 – “For a fire will be kindled by my wrath, one that burns down to the realm of the dead below.” This verse echoes the theme of God’s anger being like a consuming fire.
- Psalm 7:11 – “God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day.” This highlights that God’s anger is always aligned with His justice.
- Romans 1:18 – “The wrath of God is being revealed from heaven against all the godlessness and wickedness of people.” This shows that God’s wrath is against sin, not without reason.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For believers today, Psalm 90:7 is a call to take sin seriously. It’s a reminder that God is not indifferent to our actions. In a world that often downplays or dismisses the idea of sin, this verse is a sobering reminder that God cares deeply about righteousness. However, this verse should also drive us to a place of humility and repentance, not despair. It teaches us that God’s anger is not to destroy us but to draw us back to Him, so that we can experience His mercy and forgiveness.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
While this verse focuses on God’s anger, it also points to His love. God’s anger is actually a reflection of His love and care for His creation. Just as a loving parent disciplines a child to guide them in the right direction, God’s anger is meant to turn us away from the destructive path of sin. It’s because God loves us that He cannot leave us in our broken state. God’s discipline is not about punishment for its own sake; it’s about bringing us back to a place of right relationship with Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Psalm 90:7 finds its resolution in Jesus Christ. The reality is that we all deserve God’s anger because of our sin, but Jesus took that anger upon Himself on the cross. 1 Thessalonians 1:10 tells us that Jesus “rescues us from the coming wrath.” Through His sacrifice, Jesus absorbed the righteous anger of God so that we wouldn’t have to. Romans 5:9 says, “Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him!” Jesus’ death and resurrection made a way for us to be reconciled to God, turning away the anger we deserved.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How do you view God’s anger? Does it make you uncomfortable, or does it help you better understand His holiness?
- In what areas of your life do you need to repent and turn back to God?
- How can understanding God’s righteous anger help you grow in your relationship with Him?
- How does knowing that Jesus took on God’s wrath for you change the way you live?
- How can you share the message of God’s justice and mercy with others in a way that reflects His love?
Psalm 90:7 may be challenging to read, but it invites us to reflect on our lives and turn back to God. While it highlights God’s anger, it also points to the depth of His love and the lengths He went to in order to restore us through Jesus Christ. When we recognize the seriousness of sin, we also come to appreciate the incredible grace that God offers us in Christ.