THEOSISAugustine of Hippo
This psalm is known as ‘The Prayer of Moses, the servant of God,’ through whom God delivered the law to His people, freed them from slavery, and guided them through the wilderness for forty years. Thus, Moses serves as a minister of both the Old Testament and a prophet of the New. As the Apostle states, these occurrences were written as examples and lessons for us, who live in the latter days. Therefore, in light of Moses’ honorable role, it is fitting that we engage with this psalm, which draws attention to its nature as a prayer.
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“O Lord,” he declares, “Thou hast been our refuge from one generation to another.” This can refer to every generation, or specifically to the old and the new, emphasizing Moses’ dual role as the Servant of the Covenant pertaining to the former and the Prophet connected to the latter. Jesus, the Surety of that covenant and the Bridegroom of that generation, asserts, “If ye had believed Moses, ye would have believed me, for he wrote of me.” It is not likely that Moses authored the entire psalm, as it does not exhibit his unique expressions typical of his songs; rather, his name is invoked to draw attention and direct the focus of the listener.
He continues by explaining how God became our refuge, implying that there was a time when He was not regarded as such. Not that God didn’t exist before this recognition, for “Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God.” He, who is eternal and existed before all creation, has been our refuge since we turned to Him. The mention of “before the mountains” signifies His existence prior to the highest parts of the earth. Though God transcends all creation, this phrasing may highlight the distinction between the lofty angels, referred to as mountains, and the humble nature of humanity, symbolized by the earth.
Creation is noted to have distinctions: angels were created by God’s command, while the earth was formed to enable humanity’s corporeal existence. “God created man in His own image,” reflects the intimate relationship between Creator and created. The noblest aspects of creation preceded the formation of the earth to ensure that there would be worshipers within it. While this affirms God’s timelessness, it also signifies that creatures of all kinds, both physical and spiritual, exist within the confines of time.
We ought to consider that while the outward things may appear substantial, they are fleeting; “For a thousand years in Thy sight are as yesterday, when it is past.” Thus, let us seek refuge in Thy unchanging nature, away from the transient scenes around us. The longing for temporal life pales against the eternal perspective in which one day is as a thousand years, urging us to remember the eternal over the temporary.
The psalmist acknowledges the trials of life, beseeching, “Turn not man to humiliation,” a plea against losing sight of eternal values in the face of earthly temptations. This aligns with the Lord’s own directive not to lead us into temptation. The ensuing request acknowledges our own fragility, imploring for divine aid as we navigate the trials of existence.
Our days are numbered, for “Their years are as a shadow,” illustrating the brevity and vulnerability of life. The psalm acknowledges our frailty and the necessity of God’s mercy in our lives. “We fade away in Thy anger,” identifies the reality that our suffering often stems from sin and transgression against God’s holiness. Life, often filled with sorrow and labor, is characterized as transient, likened to grass that withers and fades.
The acknowledgment of God’s wrath invites introspection regarding the nature of divine correction. When He allows trials, it is for our growth—“The Lord chasteneth whom He loveth.” Such discipline serves to guide and not to destroy, leading us towards His purpose and a deeper understanding of His grace.
The psalmist reflects on human years filled with troubles and requests that God’s mercy be upon His servants, knitting a communal plea for strength and purpose in alignment with His will. Understanding the gravity of divine wrath, the psalm expresses the need for enlightenment, seeking to comprehend both God's power and the depths of His love.
The theologically rich text underscores the need for divine wisdom and insight. “Make Thy right hand known to me,” is a plea for Christ, the embodiment of God’s strength and agency, to be evident so that believers can anchor their hope in Him, eschewing reliance on earthly rewards. Through the sufferings of Christ, believers are drawn to a clearer understanding of true merit and righteous living amid trials.
In anticipation of comforting blessings, the psalm evokes a sense of renewal and hope, recognizing that God feeds us with His mercy. The referencing of fullness in the presence of God highlights the promise of eternal joy, transcending temporal experiences. This speaks to the heart's longing for spiritual sustenance which culminates in eternal fellowship with the Creator.
Ultimately, the psalm concludes with a call to remember our identity as God's creation—crafted for good works in Christ Jesus. The closing thoughts converge on the importance of doing good deeds not for worldly recognition but out of love, echoing the core message of divine compassion and righteousness. The enduring joy promised to God’s people is rooted in eternal life, illuminating the contrast between present afflictions and future glory.