Psalms 80:18

So will not we go back from thee: quicken us, and we will call upon thy name.

Psalms 80:18 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 80 is a communal prayer for Israel’s restoration, attributed to Asaph, a chief musician in David and Solomon’s time. The people are in distress and ask God to look upon them as His vine and restore them. Verse 18 is their response of commitment after pleading for help.

Meaning

The verse has two parts. First, the psalmist declares, “So will not we go back from thee.” This means they will not turn away from God’s service or fear. It is a promise to remain faithful, even though people often wander. Second, they plead, “quicken us.” The word “quicken” means to revive or give life. They ask God to restore their spiritual vitality. Then they promise, “and we will call upon thy name.” Calling on God’s name means prayer, worship, and seeking His guidance. The order is important: God’s gracious action of reviving enables their continued faithfulness and worship.

Biblical connections

This verse connects to the theme that God’s mercy and forgiveness encourage faith and hope. When God revives His people, they gain boldness to approach Him. The plea for revival also appears in Psalm 85:6, where the psalmist asks God to revive them again so that His people may rejoice in Him. Both verses show that revival leads to joy and worship.

Application

This verse is a model of dependent prayer. It acknowledges human weakness and the tendency to stray. It asks God for the strength to remain faithful. It also promises that the result of revival will be worship. Believers today can pray this way, admitting their need for God’s help and committing to call on Him. When we feel spiritually weak, we can ask God to revive us, knowing that He is willing to restore His people.

Reflection

Consider your own walk with God. Have you drifted from Him? This verse encourages you to turn back and ask for revival. God’s grace is the source of your strength. When He revives you, your natural response will be to call on His name in prayer and praise. Trust that God hears your plea and will restore you, so that you may remain faithful and worship Him all your days.