Psalms 89:17

“Thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted.”

1. Context: Psalm 89 is a beautiful and majestic psalm attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite. It is a contemplation on God’s faithfulness to His covenant with David and His enduring love for His people. The psalm reflects on God’s sovereignty, power, and steadfast love.

This verse acknowledges that God is the source and manifestation of strength. It recognizes God’s role as the one who empowers and sustains His people. The word “glory” here refers to the splendor, honor, and majesty of God. In essence, it is God’s presence and power that provides strength and enables His people to overcome challenges.

2. “Thou art the glory of their strength”: This verse acknowledges that God is the source and manifestation of strength. It recognizes God’s role as the one who empowers and sustains His people. The word “glory” here refers to the splendor, honor, and majesty of God. In essence, it is God’s presence and power that provides strength and enables His people to overcome challenges.

3. “In thy favor our horn shall be exalted”: The term “horn” in biblical imagery symbolizes strength, honor, and power. It represents the ability to resist enemies and achieve victory. When the psalmist declares that our horn will be exalted in God’s favor, it means that God’s favor and blessings will elevate His people to positions of strength, influence, and victory. It implies that through God’s grace and favor, His people will be lifted up and experience success.

4. Spiritual Application: a. Dependence on God’s strength: This verse reminds us that our strength ultimately comes from God. As believers, we should rely on His power and not our own abilities. In our weaknesses, God’s strength is made perfect (2 Corinthians 12:9). We should seek His presence and tap into His unlimited resources.

b. The significance of God’s favor: The psalmist highlights the importance of God’s favor. Divine favor brings blessings, upliftment, and promotion. As we seek to live according to God’s will, walking in obedience to His Word, we position ourselves to receive His favor. It is not based on our merit but on His grace and love.

c. God’s faithfulness to His promises: Psalm 89 as a whole reflects on God’s faithfulness to His covenant with David. It reminds us that God is faithful to His promises, and He will fulfill what He has spoken. Just as God was faithful to His covenant with David, He remains faithful to His promises to us through Jesus Christ.