They know not, neither will they understand; they walk on in darkness: all the foundations of the earth are out of course.  Psalm 82:5

Commentators are divided on the meaning of the term “gods” (Psalm 82:1,6). Some think it means heavenly beings (vs. 1). Some the mighty rulers (governments) of the earth (vs. 6). Others, like myself, think it somehow refers to both.

This verse says (no matter how we interpret it) that they do not understand that the whole world is off course, because the foundations are off course, out of alignment with history, morality, human compassion, anything that used to keep people on the right path. The leaders, or others, who have impact upon the direction of the world don’t realize or are OK with the foundations being out of course. Could that be true of the nations of our world today? You be the judge.

If it is true then the poignant cry of another Psalm writer speaks to society today. Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee? (Psalm 85:6). Of course, the answer is: Yes he will. If we do the hard work of resetting the foundations. I think we all know what it takes: love your neighbor, honesty, do good work, care for your family, turn from sin that hurts individuals and society. Now that’s hard for a society that has thrown over the traces to do, but if we do it, God will revive us and we as a people will rejoice.