Psalm 74

“Turn your steps toward these everlasting ruins, all this destruction the enemy has brought on the sanctuary” (3). Written after Jerusalem’s Temple was destroyed by the invading Babylonians, this psalm mourns the way the enemy “roared ... smashed ... burned ... defiled” the sanctuary where God had met with his people (4-8). Israel’s own rebellion brought about this tragedy, just as sin always destroys humanity’s fellowship with God. Yet the people called on the Lord to remember his covenant and show mercy (20).

“But God is my King from long ago; he brings salvation on the earth” (12). Our powerful and compassionate King does not leave us to manage sin’s catastrophes; instead, he comes to rescue us.