As we continue Psalms on a Sunday, we come in verses 81-88 a section in which the Psalmist is looking for hope in the midst of opposition.

The salvation spoken of here (v81) probably means deliverance from his enemies and the current difficult situation he finds himself in. As he waits for deliverance his hope in the Lord is tied to the Lord’s word. He longs for the Lord’s promises to be fulfilled (v82) and for him to receive comfort. In darkest days, God’s word is how Christ’s light comes to us.

The Psalmist appears to feel like a dried-up wineskin (v83), he is exasperated at the length of time he is enduring this trial and he wants it to end (v84). But in the midst of this he still holds on to God’s word (v83b).

Those who make him suffer are described as ‘insolent’ schemers (v85), who use lies to attack him (v86). They are people who have no time for God’s commandments in their lives (v85) whereas the Psalmist loves, follows and wants to continue to keep God’s commands (v86-88). Is this you?