Jamieson–Fausset–Brown CommentaryPsalms 89

PSALM 89

Psa 89:1-52. Of Ethan--(See on Psa 88:1, title). This Psalm was composed during some season of great national distress, perhaps Absalom's rebellion. It contrasts the promised prosperity and perpetuity of David's throne (with reference to the great promise of 2Sa 7:12-17), with a time when God appeared to have forgotten His covenant. The picture thus drawn may typify the promises and the adversities of Christ's kingdom, and the terms of confiding appeal to God provided appropriate prayers for the divine aid and promised blessing.

1. mercies--those promised (Is 55:3; Ac 13:34), and-- faithfulness--that is, in fulfilling them.

2. I have said--expressed, as well as felt, my convictions (2Co 4:13).

3-4. The object of this faith expressed in God's words (2Sa 7:11-16). with--or literally, "to" my chosen--as the covenant is in the form of a promise.

6-7. This is worthy of our belief, for His faithfulness (is praised) by the congregation of saints or holy ones; that is, angels (compare De 33:2; Da 8:13). sons of the mighty--(compare Psa 29:1). So is He to be admired on earth.

8-14. To illustrate His power and faithfulness examples are cited from history. His control of the sea (the most mighty and unstable object in nature), and of Egypt (Psa 87:4), the first great foe of Israel (subjected to utter helplessness from pride and insolence), are specimens. At the same time, the whole frame of nature founded and sustained by Him, Tabor and Hermon for "east and west," and "north and south," together representing the whole world, declare the same truth as to His attributes.

15. His government of righteousness is served by "mercy" and "truth" as ministers (Psa 85:10-13). know the joyful sound--understand and appreciate the spiritual blessings symbolized by the feasts to which the people were called by the trumpet (Le 25:9, &c.). walk ... countenance--live in His favor (Psa 4:6; 44:3).

16-17. in--or, "by" thy righteousness--Thy faithful just rule. glory--or, "beauty." of their strength--They shall be adorned as well as protected. our horn--exalt our power (Psa 75:10; Lu 1:69).

18. (Margin). Thus is introduced the promise to "our shield," "our king," David.

19-37. Then--when the covenant was established, of whose execution the exalted views of God now given furnish assurance. thou ... to thy holy one--or godly saint, object of favor (Psa 4:3). Nathan is meant (2Sa 7:17; 1Ch 17:3-15). laid help--literally, "given help." David was chosen and then exalted.

38-52. present a striking contrast to these glowing promises, in mournful evidences of a loss of God's favor. cast off--and rejected (compare Psa 15:4; 43:2; 44:9).