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Psalm 83:17a "Let them be confounded and dismayed forever..."

Day 235 – Psalm 83

“Let them be confounded and dismayed forever…” Psalm 83:17a

PRAYING REALISTICALLY

Asaph was a realist in his theology and in his prayer. This is clearly seen in the following text he wrote.

“Let them be confounded and dismayed forever;
Yes, let them be put to shame and perish.”
Psalm 83:17

1. “Let them be confounded and dismayed forever”

This phrase has to be studied carefully, or else Asaph would be misunderstood:-

a) What this text does not mean:-

i) It does not suggest a lack of genuineness on Asaph’s part.

ii) It does not suggest inconsistency either.

iii) He was sincere and serious when he expressed hope that the enemies of Israel would turn to God. (Psalm 83:16b).

b) What this text means:-

i) If the enemies rejected God’s attempts to reach out to them;

ii) If the enemies continue to pursue their wicked plans to destroy Israel;

iii) Then this prayer would apply.

iv) May these wicked enemies “be confounded and dismayed forever”.

2. “Yes, let them be put to shame and perish”

Two alternatives remained for those who are bent on committing wicked deeds:-

a) Shame

i) Their wicked dreams would never be fulfilled.

ii)They would be defeated and be ashamed of their failures.

b) Perish

i) If they continue to choose the path of destruction and death.

ii) They should not be surprised if they would be destroyed.