Psalms 89:17

For thou art the glory of their strength: and in thy favour our horn shall be exalted.

Psalms 89:17 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 89 is attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite and reflects on God’s faithfulness to His covenant with David and His enduring love for His people. Verse 17 belongs to a section describing the blessedness of the people who know the joyful sound and walk in the light of God’s countenance. The verse directly connects to the preceding verses by explaining the source of the people’s joy and exaltation: it is God Himself who is their strength and glory.

Meaning

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. The people have their strength from Christ, as well as their righteousness; without Him they can do nothing, but all things through Him strengthening them. As His righteousness exalts them, His strength adorns and glorifies them.

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. This exaltation comes not from human effort but from God’s favor. The verse teaches that true strength and honor are gifts from God, given through His favor. It implies that through God’s grace and favor, His people will be lifted up and experience success.

Biblical connections

The broader context of Psalm 89 includes the covenant with David, and the horn being exalted can be seen in light of the Davidic king, though the immediate application is to the people of God who rejoice in God’s name and righteousness. The people of God walk by this strength, exercise every grace, and discharge their duty.

Application

This verse reminds us that our strength ultimately comes from God. As believers, we should rely on His power and not our own abilities. We should seek His presence and tap into His unlimited resources.

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.

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.

Reflection

God’s favor is the basis for the believer’s exaltation and victory. Our strength and honor are not achievements we manufacture but gifts we receive from Him. When we walk in the light of His countenance, rejoicing in His name, He becomes the glory of our strength, and our horn is exalted by His favor alone.