A Daily Purpose (Day 74)

written by: Torrie Slaughter

What is an imprecatory corporate Psalm?

2 Timothy 3:16 tells us that all scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training. That means we can use the Word of God to learn. 

Psalm 58 is an imprecatory corporate Psalm. What does that mean?

To imprecate is utter (a curse) or invoke (evil) against someone or something. Imprecatory Psalms are those that invoke judgment or tragedy upon one’s enemies or those perceived as the enemies of God.

If you are reading along with us using the One Year Bible plan, you will recall God instructing Moses to consecrate His people. (Exodus 19:10) To consecrate means to make holy, separate, or dedicated to a higher purpose. To abstain from personal indulgence. 

God is the One Who makes us holy. 

The Israelites could not come into contact with death because God is life. Touching dead things would defile the person until they washed and atoned for their sins. However, GREAT IS OUR LORD! We know the Savior redeems us. In Isaiah 6:7-8, we read a (foretaste of glory divine). God’s Holy coal touches Isaiah’s lips, transferring His holiness to Isaiah. The Son of God comes to touch those who are unclean and free them from sin’s bondage. 

Be careful how you walk. (Ephesians 5:15-17)

To be ceremonially clean and present themselves as holy would mean they changed their minds and physical appearance. (Numbers 19:19, Romans 12:1-2)Bathing and washing their garments were part of the outer cleansing, and renewing the mind was the inner spiritual cleansing. 

Catharsis is the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from strong or repressed emotions. 

Through God, we can release the unconscious conflicts we experience to stand as witnesses to His great power. Psalm 58:1-11 is one example of how corporate worship unites believers in a cathartic experience and deliverance through Holy Spirit guidance. Singing, praising, invoking judgement, and removing oneself from those believed to rebel against God; was the way the Israelites set themselves apart to receive God in their heart. 

As we continue reading Numbers and move into Deuteronomy, watch how God proceeds to show mercy and desire a relationship with His chosen people. Those who believe in Jesus are grafted into His kingdom. Be mindful and keep watch. Are you repressing feelings of fear, pity, or anger? We can release those emotions within healthy ecosystems that invite transformation. Allow God to lead you so that you can experience freedom in corporate worship. Invoke God’s Holy judgment on those who rebel and live an authentic life of God’s perfect purpose for you.