Psalms 60:2

Thou hast made the earth to tremble; thou hast broken it: heal the breaches thereof; for it shaketh.

Psalms 60:2 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 60 is attributed to David and is a lament, likely written during a time of military distress or national hardship for Israel. The psalm opens with a desperate plea for God’s intervention and closes with a confident declaration of victory.

Meaning

The phrase “Thou hast made the earth to tremble” symbolizes upheaval and turmoil, showing the magnitude of trouble facing David and his people. It also emphasizes God’s sovereignty over all creation, even over calamity. The words “thou hast broken it” suggest that God allowed or caused the distressing situation, pointing to divine judgment or discipline, perhaps because of Israel’s disobedience.

In response, the psalmist cries, “heal the breaches thereof.” David recognizes that only God can bring true healing and restoration. The plea reflects a desire for God to mend the fractured relationship between Him and His people and to restore their land and strength. The concluding expression, “for it shaketh,” conveys urgent need and steadfast trust in God’s faithfulness despite the trembling earth.

Biblical connections

The language of earthquakes is figurative, describing the shaking of Israel’s civil and religious state, not necessarily a literal earthquake. This connects to Hebrews 12:26-27, where God shakes the earth and heavens so that what cannot be shaken may remain, pointing to the ultimate establishment of God’s unshakable kingdom.

Application

This verse teaches that God is sovereign over all circumstances, that distress can be a form of divine discipline, and that healing and restoration come from God alone. It encourages believers to turn to God in times of trouble, acknowledging His power and seeking His healing for the broken areas of life.

Reflection

David’s prayer models honesty before God. He does not hide the pain but brings it directly to the Lord. In our own times of shaking, we can trust that God hears our cries and will ultimately bring stability and deliverance.