Psalms 83:2

For, lo, thine enemies make a tumult: and they that hate thee have lifted up the head.

Psalms 83:2 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 83 is attributed to Asaph, one of the chief musicians during King David’s reign. It is a lament, a prayer for deliverance. Asaph appeals to God for help against a confederacy of enemy nations that have gathered to destroy Israel. The verse describes their actions: they make a tumult and lift up the head. The Hebrew word for “tumult” means noise or uproar, and “lifted up the head” is an idiom for arrogance and defiance.

Meaning

The phrase “thine enemies make a tumult” refers to the loud, chaotic noise produced by Israel’s enemies. It signifies the uproar and clamor of those who are hostile toward God and His people. The enemies are called “thine enemies” because they are hostile to God’s people and therefore to God Himself. Their cause and His are one. The verse further states, “they that hate thee have lifted up the head.” Here, “thee” refers to God. The phrase “lifted up the head” denotes pride and arrogance. It suggests that the enemies are filled with hatred and have exalted themselves in opposition to God and His chosen nation.

Biblical connections

The verse sets the stage for the psalm’s plea for God to act. The enemies’ uproar and lifted heads are a picture of human pride and hostility arrayed against the Lord and His anointed. When God’s people are attacked, God Himself is attacked. This truth appears throughout Scripture, as in Romans 12:21, where believers are called to overcome evil with good. The believer can take comfort that God sees the tumult and the pride of the wicked, and He will not remain silent forever.

Application

Psalm 83 reminds us that as believers, we are engaged in spiritual warfare. The enemies in this psalm represent the forces of evil that stand against God and His people. In our Christian journey, we may face opposition and resistance from those who are hostile to our faith. Just as Asaph cried out to God for deliverance, we should turn to Him in times of trouble. God is our refuge and strength, and He is willing to come to our aid when we face challenges or persecution.

The psalm highlights the reality of hatred toward God and His people. As followers of Christ, we are called to respond to hate with love and to overcome evil with good. We should not be discouraged or fearful in the face of opposition, but instead, we should trust in God’s sovereignty and continue to walk in obedience to His Word. The verse also warns against pride and arrogance, which are the marks of those who oppose God.

Reflection

Though the enemies may make a tumult and lift up their heads in arrogance, we can take comfort in the assurance that God will ultimately triumph over evil. The enemies of God are ultimately doomed, for their lifted heads will be brought low. In the midst of the battle, we can find hope and strength in knowing that our God is greater than any adversary we face. He is aware of the threats and will defend His people.