Psalms 89:31

If they break my statutes, and keep not my commandments;

Psalms 89:31 (KJV)

Context

Psalm 89 is attributed to Ethan the Ezrahite and is described as a Maskil, an instructive psalm. It centers on God’s covenant with David and His faithfulness to fulfill His promises. The psalmist praises God’s steadfast love and faithfulness, recounts His mighty works, and recalls His choice of David as king. The tone shifts in verse 38, where the psalmist laments the apparent abandonment of the covenant promises.

Verse 31 is part of a conditional warning within this covenant context. It follows verse 30, which speaks of sons forsaking God’s law, and together they describe a pattern of disobedience among David’s descendants. The Hebrew word translated “break” can also mean “profane” or “violate,” indicating a willful dishonoring of God’s fixed, settled ordinances. The parallel phrase “keep not my commandments” emphasizes a failure to obey.

Meaning

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.

This verse echoes the covenant language of Leviticus 26:15, where despising statutes and breaking commandments is linked to breaking God’s covenant. It also parallels warnings in 1 Kings 9:6 and 2 Chronicles 7:19 about turning away from God’s commandments and statutes.

Biblical connections

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.

Application

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 fulfill His promises. Verses 30-37 affirm that even when descendants are punished for disobedience, God will not completely remove His steadfast love or break His covenant.

Reflection

This verse underscores the seriousness of treating God’s laws with contempt and the importance of faithful obedience within the covenant relationship. It also points to the reality that God’s people, including the spiritual seed of David, can sin and fail, yet God’s covenant faithfulness remains. The verse is not about salvation by works but about the covenant stipulations that govern the relationship between God and His people.