Psalms 83:15
So persecute them with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm.
Psalms 83:15
This verse asks God to pursue the enemies “with thy tempest, and make them afraid with thy storm.” The imagery of storm and tempest conveys a sudden, overwhelming divine intervention that unsettles and displaces. The psalm uses natural forces as metaphors for God’s power in judgment and protection. This language would resonate with an audience that views God as sovereign over weather, sea, and earth, able to alter the environment to reveal his righteousness. The verse is a plea for decisive action that disrupts the enemy’s plans and creates space for God’s people to live in peace under his protection.
Theologically, this reinforces God’s sovereignty over creation and history. Storms symbolize power, deliverance, and judgment; invoking them shows confidence that God can move in dramatic, visible ways to redirect outcomes. It also communicates that divine justice may come with fearsome displays, reminding the faithful that God’s holiness demands reverence and alignment with his will.
For modern readers, this verse invites confidence in God’s ability to intervene dramatically when needed. Practically, it encourages believers to pray for God to disrupt oppressive schemes and to seek his guidance in navigating fear and uncertainty. It also suggests that sometimes bold, courageous steps—akin to stepping into a storm—may be required to pursue justice or protect the vulnerable. While we shouldn’t seek drama for drama’s sake, we can trust that God’s storm can bring about clarity, safety, and renewal for those who belong to him.
Cross-References: Psalm 18:12-14; Nahum 1:3; Job 37:9-11; Isaiah 29:6