Psalms 80:6

Thou makest us a strife unto our neighbours: and our enemies laugh among themselves.

Psalms 80:6 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 80 is a communal lament attributed to Asaph, likely written when Israel faced distress. The psalm uses the picture of a vine that God brought out of Egypt, planted, and later allowed to be broken down (Psalm 80:8-16). In verse 6, the psalmist confesses that God has made Israel a source of strife to their neighbours, and their enemies laugh among themselves. This verse sits within a plea for restoration, as verse 7 cries, “Turn us again, O God of hosts, and cause thy face to shine; and we shall be saved.“

Meaning

The phrase “strife unto our neighbours” means Israel had become a point of conflict or contention, likely because of military defeat or political trouble. The enemies’ laughter “among themselves” shows they mocked Israel, believing no help would come from God. The psalmist does not hide the pain of being ridiculed. He openly names the humiliation, yet he still addresses God directly. This honesty in lament is part of faithful prayer.

Biblical connections

The verse reflects the consequences of disobedience, as the psalmist later acknowledges that God allowed the vine to be uprooted. The laughter of enemies recalls the scorn Israel faced when they turned from God’s ways. Yet the surrounding verses show that this discipline was not the final word. The plea for God’s face to shine points to His mercy and the hope of restoration.

Application

When we stray from God’s path, we may face strained relationships and become targets of ridicule. This verse warns us to seek God’s guidance and follow His ways to avoid unnecessary conflict. It also teaches us to bring our troubles to God honestly. Even when we feel mocked or humiliated, we can cry out to Him, trusting that He hears and can deliver us.

Reflection

God can use even the scorn of enemies to humble His people and draw them back to Him. No matter how dire our circumstances appear, we can find hope in God’s faithfulness. He is able to transform our situations and bring healing, reconciliation, and victory. Like the psalmist, we can turn to God in faith, knowing that His face shining upon us brings salvation.