Psalms 81:15

The haters of the Lord should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured for ever.

Psalms 81:15 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 81 is a psalm of Asaph, a worship leader in Israel. It recalls how God brought His people out of Egypt and made them His own. Yet Israel often turned away and worshiped false gods. In the verses just before this one, God longs for His people to walk in His ways, and then He would subdue their enemies. This verse speaks of those who hate the Lord, showing the sad result of their rebellion.

Meaning

The phrase “haters of the Lord” describes people who oppose God and refuse His authority. The words “should have submitted themselves” carry a deeper meaning in Hebrew. They can also mean “lied unto him,” suggesting that some pretend to obey God while their hearts remain rebellious. Such false submission is a form of hatred toward God. The verse says their “time should have endured for ever,” meaning that if they had truly humbled themselves, their days and blessings would have continued. Instead, their rebellion brought ruin.

Biblical connections

This verse connects with the next one, Psalm 81:16, where God promises to feed those who obey Him with the finest wheat and honey from the rock. The contrast is clear: those who submit receive blessing, while those who hate Him face loss. In the New Testament, Philippians 2:10-11 teaches that every knee will bow to Christ, either willingly now or in judgment later. This verse warns that pretending to follow God is not enough; He sees the heart.

Application

We must examine our own hearts. Do we truly submit to God, or do we only appear obedient? Hypocrisy is a serious sin. God calls us to honest humility, not empty words. When we confess our sins and turn to Him, we receive His mercy and the blessing of a long, fruitful life in His service.

Reflection

God’s desire is not to destroy but to save. He longs for His people to return to Him. Let us not be like those who hate Him by refusing His love. Instead, let us submit willingly, knowing that His ways lead to life that endures forever.