A Contemplation by Ethan the Ezrahite
Psalm 89, attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite—a figure renowned for his wisdom, possibly surpassed only by King Solomon—reflects deeply on God’s covenant with David. The psalm opens with praise for God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, celebrating the promises made to David and his descendants. However, it quickly shifts in tone, as Ethan mourns the apparent failure of those promises in light of the hardships and crises experienced by Israel. Throughout, the psalmist balances reverence for God’s enduring faithfulness with a heartfelt lament over the nation’s suffering, ultimately pleading for God’s restoration and fulfillment of the covenant.
God’s Promise, Faithfulness, and a Cry for Help
Psalm 89 is a heartfelt song and prayer that talks about God’s steadfast love and faithfulness. Here’s what it’s all about in plain language:
Celebrating God’s Love and Faithfulness
The psalm begins with the writer excitedly saying he will praise God’s love forever. He wants everyone, for generations to come, to know that God is trustworthy and loving. The writer believes God’s promises are as steady as the heavens above and that God keeps His word throughout time.
God’s Special Promise to David
A big part of Psalm 89 is about a special promise God made to King David, a famous leader in Israel’s history. God promised David that his family would always have someone sitting on the throne, meaning a king from his family line would rule forever. God said He would always love David and be faithful to him no matter what.
Remembering God’s Power
The writer spends some time describing how powerful God is. He says that nothing compares to God—not angels, not anyone in heaven or on earth. God created everything: the land, the sky, the sea, even the famous mountains Tabor and Hermon. God is strong, fair, and always does what’s right.
What About When Things Go Wrong?
The tone of the psalm shifts. Even though God promised to protect David’s descendants, things in Israel are not going well. The writer looks around and sees defeat, shame, and destruction. Enemies are winning, the king has lost his respect and strength, and the people are suffering. It feels like God is angry and has forgotten the promises made to David.
Honest Questions and Pleas
The writer doesn’t hold back—he asks God, “How long will this go on?” He reminds God that life is short and that humans are fragile. He asks God to remember the promise made to David, and wonders where God’s great love has gone.
Ending with Hope
Despite all the trouble, Psalm 89 ends with a note of hope and praise. The writer says, “Praise be to the Lord forever! Amen and Amen.” Even in tough times, he chooses to trust that God’s love and faithfulness remain.
In Short
This psalm is about believing in God’s promises, even when life doesn’t make sense. It’s honest about doubts and hurts, but it also holds onto hope. Psalm 89 teaches us it’s okay to ask God hard questions and to keep trusting, even when everything seems to be falling apart.
Minister A Francine Green I July 2025
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