What is the meaning of Psalms 83:15?

So persecute them with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm.

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Psalms 83:15 Bible Verse Meaning

Bible Verse Meaning: Psalms 83:15

Verse: "So pursue them with your tempest and terrify them with your storm." (Psalms 83:15)

Understanding the Verse

The verse from Psalms is a part of a larger plea for divine intervention against the enemies of God's people. It reflects a cry for help, seeking justice and righteousness. The imagery used in this verse—tempest and storm—symbolizes overwhelming power and the fear of God that it instills in adversaries.

Bible Verse Interpretations

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry notes that this plea represents a desire for God’s judgment to be swift and powerful against those who rise up against His people. The use of natural phenomena signifies the uncontrollable aspects of God's power.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes emphasizes the necessity of divine action, asserting that human efforts alone are insufficient to combat the wickedness that threatens the faithful. The storm metaphor portrays God as both protector and avenger.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke focuses on the urgency of the petition in this verse. He explains that invoking God's tempest implies a desire for a swift resolution to the oppression faced by God's people, illustrating a fundamental theme in the psalm of seeking refuge and deliverance.

Significance of the Verse

This verse captures the essence of reliance on God in times of distress and the assurance that He has the power to intervene in the affairs of humanity. It reinforces the idea that even amid chaos and opposition, believers can seek comfort in the Almighty’s authority over nature and human conflict.

Application of Psalms 83:15 in Daily Life

For individuals facing persecution or injustice, Psalms 83:15 serves as a reminder to turn to God for help. It encourages believers to acknowledge God’s sovereignty and to trust in His timing and methods of bringing about justice.

Related Bible Cross References

  • Psalms 7:11 — "God is a righteous judge, a God who displays his wrath every day."
  • Psalms 37:12-13 — "The wicked plot against the righteous and gnash their teeth at them; but the Lord laughs at the wicked, for he knows their day is coming."
  • Psalms 9:9-10 — "The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble."

Conclusion

In summary, Psalms 83:15 encapsulates a profound spiritual truth regarding God’s protective nature and the appropriate response of His followers in times of turmoil. Understanding this verse through commentary sheds light on its relevance and application in contemporary spiritual life, making it a powerful source of encouragement for believers.