Psalms 89:31

If they breake my statutes, and keepe not my commandements: Psalms 89:31 (KJV)

Psalm 89 is attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite and is considered a Maskil, which means it is a didactic or instructive psalm. It focuses on God’s covenant with David and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. The psalmist begins by praising God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, recounting His mighty works in creation and His choice of David as king. However, the psalm takes a turn in verse 38, expressing the psalmist’s distress at the apparent abandonment of the covenant promises.

In verse 31, the psalmist acknowledges that if the children of David forsake God’s law and do not walk in His judgments, there will be consequences. This verse highlights the importance of obedience to God’s laws and the significance of honoring the covenant relationship with Him.

The psalmist implies that if the people fail to uphold God’s statutes and commandments, there will be repercussions. Throughout the Old Testament, we see numerous examples of how the Israelites faced hardships and calamities when they turned away from God and disregarded His commandments. The Bible teaches that disobedience to God’s law leads to spiritual, moral, and societal decay, resulting in God’s corrective actions.

Psalm 89:31 serves as a reminder to believers today of the importance of obedience to God’s Word. As Christians, we are called to follow Jesus Christ and live according to His teachings. Jesus Himself said in John 14:15 (KJV), “If ye love me, keep my commandments.” Our obedience to God’s commandments is a demonstration of our love and reverence for Him.

While the consequences of disobedience are evident, it is important to remember that God is also merciful and forgiving. The psalmist’s lament in Psalm 89 reflects a temporary state of distress, but the overall message of the psalm emphasizes God’s enduring faithfulness and His commitment to fulfil His promises.