In his sermon on Psalms 82–84, Stephen Davey explains how these psalms confront injustice, expose the motives of persecutors, and offer comfort to believers who feel small, restless, or mistreated. Psalm 82 depicts God standing in judgment over earthly rulers—called “gods” because they hold delegated authority—to condemn their corruption, favoritism, and failure to defend the weak. Davey notes that every judge and leader should remember their mortality and accountability, because one day they will stand before the Judge of all the earth. Psalm 83 then turns to the nations conspiring to destroy Israel, not because Israel had sinned, but because they hated God and therefore hated His people. Davey emphasizes that believers today often face hostility for the same reason—and that while it is appropriate at times to pray for God’s justice, the ultimate motive must be evangelistic: that the wicked would be humbled and come to know the Lord. Psalm 84, written by the sons of Korah, offers tender reassurance that God provides a home for the “sparrow” who feels worthless and a resting place for the “swallow” who feels restless. Davey concludes that in a world filled with injustice, hostility, and uncertainty, God Himself remains the believer’s refuge, welcome, and place of rest—inviting every weary heart to build its nest in His presence.
Judging the Judges
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