Psalms 90:7

Psalms 90:7 states, "For we are consumed by thine anger, and by thy wrath are we troubled." This powerful verse from Psalm 90, a prayer attributed to Moses, vividly describes the profound and destructive impact of God's displeasure on humanity.

Context

Psalm 90 stands as a profound meditation on the brevity of human life compared to the eternal nature of God. Moses, reflecting on the generations that perished in the wilderness due to their disobedience, conveys a deep understanding of human frailty and the consequences of sin. Verse 7 specifically links the transient nature of human existence, often cut short, to the active presence of God's righteous judgment. The preceding verses (like Psalm 90:3-6) establish God's power to return humanity to dust, and this verse clarifies that such mortality is often a direct result of divine anger against sin, rather than mere natural decay.

Key Themes

• Divine Judgment and Consequences: The verse highlights that God's anger and wrath are not passive but have tangible, consuming effects. "Consumed" (Hebrew: kalah) implies a perishing, a being brought to an end, while "troubled" (Hebrew: bahal) suggests being disturbed, terrified, or dismayed. This is a stark reminder of God's justice and the serious implications of human rebellion against Him. The Bible consistently teaches about God's wrath being revealed against ungodliness.
• Human Frailty and Mortality: While the psalm emphasizes the general shortness of life, this verse connects that mortality directly to God's active displeasure. It implies that human suffering, decline, and ultimate death are not just natural processes but can also be expressions of divine judgment, particularly in response to sin. This understanding underscores the urgent need for wisdom and repentance, as Moses prays in Psalm 90:12 to "number our days."

Linguistic Insights

The Hebrew words used convey intensity:

• "Anger" (אף - aph): Literally "nose" or "nostril," often used metaphorically for intense, hot anger, as a person's breathing becomes heavy and flared when enraged.
• "Wrath" (חֵמָה - chemah): Signifies heat, fury, or burning indignation. It's a strong term indicating fierce displeasure, often leading to destructive outcomes. The combination of aph and chemah emphasizes the comprehensive and inescapable nature of God's righteous indignation.

Reflection and Application

Psalms 90:7 serves as a powerful call to reverence and humility. It reminds us that God is not only eternal and merciful but also just and holy, and He responds to sin. Understanding this truth should lead to:

• Sobering Self-Examination: Recognizing that our struggles or the brevity of life can sometimes be linked to divine displeasure should prompt us to examine our hearts and ways.
• Seeking God's Favor: The psalm doesn't end in despair; it moves to a plea for God's mercy and favor (e.g., Psalm 90:14). It encourages us to turn to God, recognizing His power to both consume and to restore.
• Valuing Life and Eternity: The vivid depiction of being "consumed" by divine anger underscores the preciousness and fragility of life, encouraging us to live wisely and prepare for eternity, seeking the gift of eternal life through faith.