Psalm 82 - The Voice (VOICE)

Psalm 82

A song of Asaph.

Psalm 82 provides an image of a heavenly scene in which God accuses His heavenly messengers of not caring for the poor and pursuing justice.

1 The True God stands to preside over the heavenly council.
He pronounces judgment on the so-called gods.
2 He asks: “How long will you judge dishonestly
and be partial to the wicked?”

[pause][a]

3 “Stand up for the poor and the orphan;
advocate for the rights of the afflicted and those in need.
4 Deliver the poor and the needy;
rescue them from their evil oppressors.”

5 These bullies are ignorant; they have no understanding of My ways.
So as they walk in darkness,
the foundations of the earth tremble.

6 I said, “Though you are gods[b]
and children of the Most High,
7 You will die no differently than any mortal;
you will fall like one of the princes.”

8 Rise up, O True God; judge the rulers of the earth,
for all the nations are Yours.

Footnotes

  1. 82:2 Literally, selah, likely a musical direction from a Hebrew root meaning “to lift up”
  2. 82:6 John 10:34