God is Glorified in Judgment
We often think just about God being glorified through demonstrations of His mercy and grace towards His people. This can lead towards thinking of God in sentimental terms. God is also glorified in His judgements. God’s holiness and justice are demonstrated when He judges sin.
In Psalm 83 the psalmist prays for God to bring judgment upon all those who would plot and seek to destroy His people (83:1-8). The enemies of God’s people are His enemies (83:2). They exalt themselves and plot to wipe out God’s “treasured ones” (83:2-4). In their pagan mindset they believe that if they destroy Israel they will have defeated God Himself (83:4-5). Brethren, we live in a world that hates Christ and hates His church (Jn 15:18). Christ, at His return, will rescue His people and judge the world (Luke 18:7-8).
In the midst of a hostile world (83:6-8), the psalmist petitions the Lord for the destruction of all those who seek harm to His people (83:9-17). He mentions the past actions of God of utterly destroying the enemies of His people who sought their destruction (83:9-12). He asks God to “pursue them,” and “terrify them,” by His mighty power so that they will be “ashamed,” “dismayed,” and “humiliated” (83:14-15). Yet, in the midst of this judgement, the psalmist asks that they may see God’s power displayed and understand their folly. Brethren, not only are we to pray to God for vindication from the wicked, but we are to pray for them to see their folly and come to saving faith in Christ (Matt 5:44).
God’s judgment will demonstrate to all, that He is sovereign over all of the earth. The whole world will acknowledge Him for who He is and for His mighty works on behalf of His people (83:18).