God's Work In Our Salvation

God’s Work In Our Salvation

December 4, 2014 Year B

The psalmist recalls God’s work in salvation. The subject of salvation is God. He is the author, the worker, and the finisher of salvation.

God brings prosperity to the people and shows favors to the land (Psalm 85:1). Why? God does His work in our salvation.

He took away guilt (Psalm 85:2) and covered sin (Psalm 85:2). He withdrew and turned His anger (Psalm 85:3). He abandons His displeasure (Psalm 85:4).

A series of questions is asked with an expected answer of “No.”

Will you be angry? No (Psalm 85:5)

Will you not revive us again? No (Psalm 85:6)

The point of these questions is to assure the person that God is not angry and that He will revive. God will do what He said about salvation. Therefore, God’s anger is appeased and is not tied to salvation. However, salvation is tied to God’s love (Psalm 85:7).

God, through the salvation He brings, will bring peace and it will keep us from our foolish ways.

Because of our salvation, I will listen to God (Psalm 85:8).

Salvation is near to those who seek God (Psalm 85:9). Just as Peter later said: salvation is very near to us, to those who may call on Him.

God’s work in our salvation yields fruit (Psalm 85:10-13):

Righteousness

Peace

Faithful Love

Truth

Goodness (what is good)