I wonder if “Ethan the Ezrahite” had a conversation with “Heman the Ezrahite” (Psalm 88) about writing songs that were more positive & uplifting, because truly Psalm 89 is just that. Ethan begins by declaring that he WILL sing of the steadfast love of Yahweh forever and WILL make known His faithfulness to all generations (think age groups) (1). Ethan bases his confidence in God’s steadfast love & faithfulness (2) on what God said regarding King David & his offspring (3-4). Then in verses 5-12, Ethan calls for heaven & it’s “assembly of holy ones” (angels) to praise God & fear Him (i.e., show reverence, heightened respect & awe) , whom he identified as “LORD God of hosts” (angelic armies). He then points out some of God’s “wonders,” highlighting God’s sovereignty in nature & the nations. Ethan keeps pointing out God’s character & many attributes (13-14). He knew that God was the glory of their king, whom he identified as Israel’s “strength,” “horn,” and “shield” (17-18). In verses 19-37, Ethan reminds God of His choosing David and making a covenant with him, whom he identifies as God’s servant. However, in verses 38-51 Ethan wonders where God’s covenant loyalty was with the current king, whom he does not identify. [ I wonder if Ethan forgot that part of the covenant with David was disciplining any of his descendants who didn’t adhere to the covenant. See 2 Samuel 7:12-16] However, despite the trouble Ethan sees with the king and the nation, he closes with a declaration of blessing (praise) to Yahweh (52).
There is so much for me to learn here:
1. I need to make a conscious choice to sing of God’s steadfast love & declare his faithfulness regardless of my circumstances or what’s going on in my life or nation.
2. God is faithful & keeps his promises whether or not I see them fulfilled in my lifetime. Ultimately all of God’s promises are fulfilled in Jesus Christ.
3. If angels should fear & respect God, how much more should I?
4. The heavens & earth belong to God, the world & everything in it (11) – including me and the dreaded Coronavirus.
5. Jesus Christ is God’s true & ultimate “Servant King,” and God has made a NEW covenant with him by which he now deals with his people. And even though I might violate the terms of the covenant (like King David did), God will continue to keep his part of the covenant. I can rest assured that nothing shall separate me from the steadfast love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord, not even my sins.
6. With David I can cry to God, “You are my Father, my God, the Rock of my salvation” (26). NOTHING can change this relationship.
7. God is ALWAYS worthy of praise (blessing), no matter what!
Leave a Reply