82:1ffGod judges human judges. The integrity of the justice system in a nation provides a clear indication of the health of that society. As is the case with all leadership, judges derive their authority ultimately from God and will give an account to God for their verdicts. Believers are commanded to pray for “kings and all who are in authority so we can live peaceful and quiet lives marked by godliness and dignity” (1 Timothy 2:2). This psalm reminds us to include judges of every kind in our prayers because we directly benefit from their integrity.
Life Application Study BiblePsalmsChapter 82
Psalm 82
New Living Translation · Life Application Study Bible · Original page: 932
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82Psalm 82
1A psalm of Asaph.God presides over heaven's court;he pronounces judgment on the heavenly beings:
2“How long will you hand down unjust decisionsby favoring the wicked?
3“Give justice to the poor and the orphan;uphold the rights of the oppressed and the destitute.
4Rescue the poor and helpless;deliver them from the grasp of evil people.
5But these oppressors know nothing;they are so ignorant!They wander about in darkness,while the whole world is shaken to the core.
6I say, ‘You are gods;you are all children of the Most High.
7But you will die like mere mortalsand fall like every other ruler.”
8Rise up, O God, and judge the earth, for all the nations belong to you. Theme: Combating God’s enemies. This psalm is a prayer for God to do whatever it takes to convince the world that he is indeed God. Someday all will recognize and admit that God is in charge. Author: Asaph (or one of his descendants)
Life Application Notes 2 notes
82:6This psalm calls the rulers and judges of Israel “gods” and “children of the Most High.” They were called gods because they represented God in executing judgment. John 10:34-36 records Jesus using this passage to defend his claims to be God.