Psalm 89:1-19
Q.1. Who benefits from the extensive blessings God promised to David? How great is the Lord? – (Ps.89:1-10)
It is recorded that Solomon’s wisdom surpassed all men including Ethan the Ezrahite (1 Kgs.4:31). He clearly knew of God’s promises to King David through Nathan the prophet (c.f. 2 Sam.7:11-16, 24). Here he built his song around God’s Covenant with David and under inspiration of God confirmed its truth – 3 I have made a covenant with My chosen; I have sworn to David My servant, 4 I will establish your seed forever and build up your throne to all generations (Ps.89:3-4 c.f. Ps.89:19-37). He started off by praising God for His loving-kindness forever, and wanted it known even – to all generations I will make known Your faithfulness with my mouth … Lovingkindness will be built up forever; In the heavens You will establish Your faithfulness (Ps.89:1-2). He pictured God in the Heavens and declared – 5 The heavens will praise Your wonders, O Lord, Your faithfulness also in the assembly of the holy ones. 6 For who in the skies is comparable to the Lord? Who among the sons of the mighty is like the Lord; 7 A God greatly feared in the council of the holy ones, and awesome above all those who are around Him? (Ps.89:5-7). His sovereign power is on display in creation and His judgment over the nations (Ps.89:8-10).
Q.2. How extensive is God’s rule? How does God’s rule differ from that of men? – (Ps.89:11-19)
The Psalmist declared – The heavens are Yours; the earth also is Yours, the world and all it contains; You have founded them (Ps.89:11). We should always acknowledge that God is the Owner of everything and the Ruler over all things. Ethan considered the mountains of Tabor and Hermon. God rules over all beyond earthly rulers. The Psalmist took comfort in God’s reign because – Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; Lovingkindness and truth go before You (Ps.89:14). The people were blessed with a godly king – for our shield belongs to the Lord, and our king to the Holy One of Israel (Ps.89:18). Therefore, he could sing – 15 How blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! O Lord, they walk in the light of Your countenance. 16 In Your name they rejoice all day and by Your righteousness they are exalted (Ps.89:15-16). That is why we are urged to pray for governing authorities (1 Tim.2:1-4).