Read Psalms 85 in the King James Bible (opens in a new tab)
Psalm 85 remembers God’s past mercy—when He restored His people, forgave iniquity, and turned away His wrath—and then pleads for renewed revival. The psalm asks God to “turn” His people again, to put away displeasure, and to show steadfast mercy so that they may rejoice in Him. It warns against returning to folly after God speaks peace, calling for a response of reverent obedience. The chapter paints a covenant picture of restoration: God’s salvation is near those who fear Him, and His presence brings glory to the land. Its hope is a transformed community where truth, mercy, righteousness, and peace are no longer at odds but harmonize under God’s rule.
Psalms 85:1 - 85:13
1 To the chief Musician, A Psalm for the sons of Korah. Lord, thou hast been favourable unto thy land: thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob.
2 Thou hast forgiven the iniquity of thy people, thou hast covered all their sin. Selah.
3 Thou hast taken away all thy wrath: thou hast turned [thyself] from the fierceness of thine anger.
4 Turn us, O God of our salvation, and cause thine anger toward us to cease.
5 Wilt thou be angry with us for ever? wilt thou draw out thine anger to all generations?
6 Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?
7 Shew us thy mercy, O Lord, and grant us thy salvation.
8 I will hear what God the Lord will speak: for he will speak peace unto his people, and to his saints: but let them not turn again to folly.
9 Surely his salvation [is] nigh them that fear him; that glory may dwell in our land.
10 Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed [each other].
11 Truth shall spring out of the earth; and righteousness shall look down from heaven.
12 Yea, the Lord shall give [that which is] good; and our land shall yield her increase.
13 Righteousness shall go before him; and shall set [us] in the way of his steps.