O Lord, You have been gracious to Your land; You have restored the fortunes of Jacob. You have forgiven the iniquity of Your people; You have covered all their sins.
You have withdrawn all Your wrath; You have turned away from Your fierce anger. Restore us, O God of our salvation, And put away Your indignation toward us.
Will You be angry with us forever? Will You prolong Your anger to all generations? Will You not revive us again, That Your people may rejoice in You?
Show us Your mercy, O Lord, And grant us Your salvation. I will hear what God will speak, For He will speak peace to His people.
Surely His salvation is near to those who fear Him, That glory may dwell in our land. Mercy and truth have met together; Righteousness and peace have kissed.
Truth shall spring out of the earth, And righteousness shall look down from heaven. Yes, the Lord will give what is good; And our land will yield its increase.
Righteousness will go before Him, And shall make His footsteps our pathway. Thank You, Lord for Your providence over us.
Where did this prayer come from? Psalm 85
Psalm 85 is a prayer of deep longing for God’s merciful intervention in the life of the faithful. Its origins can be traced back to the Old Testament, where it was likely used in Temple worship.
The Psalm is believed to have been written by the Sons of Korah, who were Levites that served in the Temple. It is a hymn that expresses a profound trust in God’s power to save and a deep longing for His guidance and direction.
Over time, Psalm 85 became a popular prayer among the faithful, and it was often recited during the Liturgy of the Hours. Its themes of trust in God and hope for His merciful intervention resonated with many people.
In the Catholic Church, Psalm 85 continues to be a cherished prayer that is often recited during Mass, the Liturgy of the Hours, and private devotions. Its words have inspired countless individuals to trust in God’s providence and to seek His guidance in their lives.
Today, Psalm 85 remains an important reminder of our need for God’s mercy and guidance. Its words continue to touch the lives of Catholics around the world and to inspire them to deepen their relationship with God and to place their trust in His providence.