A Testimony. Of Asaph, A Psalm. A prayer for Israel’s restoration after having been ravaged by a foreign oppressor. See 2 Kgs 17:1-6.
v.1-2 Call for the God (Shepherd) of Israel to save the people (the flock).
v.3 Refrain: Restore us, O God. (Possibly a request for spiritual renewal.)
3 Restore us, O God;
let your face shine, that we may be saved!
See Nm 6:22-27.
v.4-6 Lament that God has punished the people.
v.7 Refrain: Restore us, O God of hosts.
v.8-13 You brought us out of Egypt and planted us, like a vine, in the promised land. Now the walls are broken down and enemies ravage it.
v.14-18 Turn again and look at us, the stock your hand planted. They have cut it down. But turn and give us life, then we will call upon your name.
14 Turn again, O God of hosts!
Look down from heaven, and see;
have regard for this vine,
v.19 Refrain: Restore us, O Lord God of hosts!