Psalm 79 Explained

Author: Traditionally attributed to Asaph.

Psalm 79 is a prayer of lament. It was written after Jerusalem had been invaded and the Temple had been defiled. God’s people were suffering, and they cried out to the Lord for mercy, forgiveness, and deliverance.

1. A Nation in Ruins (Verses 1–4)

The enemies had entered God’s land, destroyed Jerusalem, and dishonoured His holy Temple. Many people had been killed, and God’s people had become a reproach to the surrounding nations.

Lesson: Even God’s people can experience times of sorrow and devastation, but they can always bring their pain before the Lord.

“O God, the heathen are come into thine inheritance; thy holy temple have they defiled.” (Psalm 79:1)

2. A Cry for Mercy (Verses 5–8)

The psalmist asks:

“How long, Lord?”

He recognises that the nation has sinned and asks God not to remember their past sins but to show compassion.

Lesson: Repentance opens the door to God’s mercy. When we fail, we can come humbly before Him.

3. A Prayer for Deliverance (Verses 9–12)

The writer pleads:

“Help us, O God of our salvation.”

He asks God to forgive their sins, save them for His name’s sake, and bring justice upon those who mocked His people.

Lesson: Our greatest need is not revenge but God’s salvation and forgiveness.

4. A Promise of Praise (Verse 13)

The psalm ends with hope:

“So we thy people and sheep of thy pasture will give thee thanks for ever.”

Although the people were suffering, they promised to continue praising God from generation to generation.

Lesson: Trials do not cancel worship. God’s people can still praise Him even in difficult times.

Main Themes of Psalm 79

• Sin brings consequences.
• God is merciful to those who repent.
• Prayer is the believer’s refuge in trouble.
• God’s honour and glory matter above all.
• God’s people are the sheep of His pasture and belong to Him.
• Praise should continue from one generation to another.

Simple Summary

Psalm 79 is the cry of a broken people who have suffered greatly. They confess their sins, seek God’s mercy, ask for deliverance, and end with a promise to praise Him forever. It reminds us that no matter how dark the circumstances, there is hope when we turn to the Lord.

Key Verse:

“Help us, O God of our salvation, for the glory of thy name: and deliver us, and purge away our sins, for thy name’s sake.” — Psalm 79:9 (KJV)

GOD IS A GOOD GOD

GOD KNOWS, GOD LOVES, GOD CARES

Written for georgeswebministries

23rd June 2026