Psalms 85:6

My Notes

What Does Psalms 85:6 Mean?

"Wilt thou not revive us again" is a prayer for revival — national, spiritual, communal renewal. The word "revive" (chayah) means to make alive, to bring back to life, to restore vitality. The psalmist is asking for resurrection of the nation's spiritual life. Israel isn't physically dead — but spiritually, they might as well be.

The word "again" is significant: this isn't the first time Israel has needed revival. They've been here before — dead and revived, fallen and restored. The cycle is familiar. And the psalmist appeals to the pattern: You've done this before, God. Will You not do it again?

The purpose of the revival is stated: "that thy people may rejoice in thee." The revival isn't for Israel's comfort or national prestige. It's so they can rejoice in God. The goal of spiritual renewal is restored joy in God's presence. Revival isn't about feeling better — it's about rejoicing better.

Reflection Questions

• 1.Is your spiritual life currently alive or flat? What would revival look like for you?
• 2.How do you feel about needing revival 'again' — does the cycle discourage or encourage you?
• 3.What connection do you see between spiritual vitality and genuine joy?
• 4.What prayer for revival do you need to bring to God right now?

Devotional

Revive us. Again. The psalmist has been here before. Israel has been dead before, and God has made them alive before. The request isn't new — it's the same request the same people have made across centuries. Will You do it again?

The "again" is both humble and hopeful. Humble because it admits that Israel has fallen again — the last revival didn't prevent the next decline. Hopeful because it appeals to God's track record — You've done this before, and You can do it again.

The purpose of revival is joy. Not personal comfort, not national security, not religious productivity — joy. "That thy people may rejoice in thee." The goal of being revived is to be able to rejoice again. When you're spiritually dead, you can't rejoice. When you're revived, joy is the natural result.

If your spiritual life feels flat — not dramatically sinful, just flat, joyless, going through the motions — this is your prayer. Revive me. Again. I know I've been here before. I know this is a cycle. But I also know You've broken the cycle before. You've breathed life into dead bones before. Do it again.

The prayer for revival isn't a one-time event. It's a recurring need. And God, apparently, doesn't tire of answering it.

Commentary

Trusted original commentary from respected historical Bible scholars and theologians.

Cross References

Related passages throughout Scripture